Pinecrest Center For Rehabilitation And Healing
Inspection history, citations, penalties and survey trends for this long-term care facility in North Miami, Florida.
- Location
- 13650 Ne 3rd Court, North Miami, Florida 33161
- CMS Provider Number
- 105153
- Inspections on file
- 22
- Latest survey
- March 13, 2025
- Citations (last 12 mo.)
- 0
Citation history
Health deficiencies cited at Pinecrest Center For Rehabilitation And Healing during CMS and state inspections, most recent first.
The facility failed to ensure proper storage of medications and biologicals for several residents, leading to deficiencies in medication management. Observations revealed medications and ointments at residents' bedsides and discontinued medication in the cart. Staff interviews indicated lapses in protocol adherence, with medications not being stored according to the facility's policy, which requires storage in the pharmacy or medication rooms.
A facility failed to timely reorder and receive a routine breathing medication for a resident, resulting in the medication being unavailable at the prescribed time. An LPN confirmed the inhaler was not in stock, and records showed discrepancies in reorder and delivery dates. The resident expressed that the medication occasionally ran out, and the facility's policy on timely medication receipt was not followed.
A facility failed to reorder and receive a routine asthma inhaler in a timely manner for a resident with Seizure and Asthma. An LPN confirmed the inhaler was unavailable at the prescribed time, and documentation showed a delay in reordering. The resident expressed that medication shortages occur occasionally. The DON acknowledged the issue, referencing a policy on timely medication receipt.
The facility failed to protect residents' personal and medical information, as evidenced by unattended paperwork with residents' details left visible in public areas. An LPN and the ADON acknowledged the breaches, confirming that such information should not be left unattended. The DON stated that measures are in place to safeguard information, but these were not effectively implemented.
The facility failed to maintain a medication error rate below 5%, with an observed rate of 13.89%. An LPN administered medications to a resident outside the prescribed time frame due to being busy with other duties, and Vancomycin was unavailable as it was ordered at midnight. The Director of Nursing confirmed the policy allows for a one-hour window for medication administration, but this was not adhered to, contributing to the high error rate.
A facility failed to maintain a medication error rate of 5% or lower, with an observed rate of 13.89%. An LPN administered medications to a resident outside the prescribed time frame due to being busy with other duties, and one medication was unavailable as it was ordered late. The facility's policy requires medications to be administered within 60 minutes of the scheduled time, but this was not adhered to, contributing to the high error rate.
The facility failed to properly store medications for several residents, with medications found at the bedside instead of in a locked medication room or cart. Observations included bottled pills, a bottle of medication, and a bingo card with discontinued medication improperly stored. Staff interviews revealed that rounds were conducted, but they were ineffective in identifying these storage issues.
The facility failed to maintain a safe environment by leaving a shaving razor protruding from a container in a resident's room and lancets unattended on a medication cart. Staff acknowledged the oversight, and the DON confirmed the facility's policy requires proper storage of sharp objects.
The facility failed to protect residents' privacy, with observations of unattended paperwork containing resident information left visible in public areas. An LPN and the ADON acknowledged the breaches, confirming that such information should not be visible or unattended. The DON stated that measures are in place to safeguard residents' information.
The facility failed to maintain its essential electric system generator as per NFPA 101 standards due to the absence of high mortality spare parts in the generator room. This deficiency was identified during a Life Safety Survey tour, with the Maintenance Director acknowledging the issue. The lack of spare parts suggests a potential risk in meeting emergency power requirements.
Improper Medication Storage in Facility
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure proper storage of medications and biologicals for five residents, leading to deficiencies in medication management. Observations revealed that a resident had bottled pills inside a plastic bag at their bedside, while another resident had a bottle labeled Zicam on their side table. Additionally, a tube labeled Zinc Oxide Ointment was found at another resident's bedside, and two bottles labeled Acetic Acid Irrigation Solution were observed on a nightstand. Furthermore, a bingo card with discontinued medication was found in the medication cart for another resident. These findings indicate a lack of adherence to the facility's policy on medication storage, which requires medications to be stored in the pharmacy or medication rooms according to specific guidelines. Interviews with staff members revealed lapses in the protocol for medication storage. One LPN admitted to conducting rounds but failed to notice medications at a resident's bedside, while another LPN stated that medications should not be at the bedside. An RN acknowledged the presence of discontinued medication in the cart, which should have been removed and returned to the pharmacy or destroyed. The facility's policy, revised in January 2018, mandates that all medications be stored according to the manufacturer's recommendations to ensure proper sanitation, temperature, light, ventilation, moisture control, segregation, and security. The failure to adhere to these protocols resulted in the observed deficiencies.
Plan Of Correction
1. What corrective action will be accomplished? The bottled pills inside a plastic bag were removed from Resident #381's bedside and secured. The was removed from Resident #47's bedside and secured. The from Resident #12's bedside was removed and secured. The 2 bottles labeled Acetic Irrigation Solution were removed from Resident #47's bedside. The bingo card labeled tablet of discontinued medication for Resident #65 was returned to the pharmacy. 2. How we identified other residents having the potential to be affected by the deficient practice & corrective action taken: The DON/Designee conducted an audit of occupied resident rooms and medication carts to ensure no medications or biologicals were at bedside and no discontinued medications were in the med carts. 3. Measures/systematic changes put into place: The DON/Designee re-educated the nursing staff on the facility policy for storage of medications and biologicals. Education for storage of biologicals was added to the new hire orientation and annual nursing education. The pharmacy nurse consultant will audit medication carts monthly to ensure no discontinued medications are stored in cart. The Nursing supervisor will conduct a daily audit (5 days per week) of medication carts to ensure no expired medications are in cart. 4. How corrective action will be monitored: The DON/Designee will conduct daily observation room rounds audit (times 5 weeks) to ensure no medications or biologicals are at bedside. Med cart audit for discontinued medications weekly (times 5 weeks). The results of these audits will be reviewed at the monthly QA meeting until compliance has been determined.
Failure to Timely Reorder and Receive Breathing Medication
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure the timely reordering and receipt of a routine breathing medication for a resident, leading to the medication being unavailable at the prescribed time. During an observation, a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) confirmed that the inhaler for the resident was not in stock. The LPN stated that the inhaler had been reordered, but records showed discrepancies in the reorder and delivery dates. The Medication Administration Record (MAR) confirmed the inhaler had not been administered, and a progress note indicated that the physician was contacted to order the medication once it was received. The resident, who had been admitted and re-admitted with certain diagnoses, expressed that the medication occasionally ran out. The Care Plan for the resident included giving medications as ordered and monitoring side effects and effectiveness. During an interview, the Director of Nursing (DON) explained that inhalers should be reordered before they run out, depending on the type of inhaler. The facility's policy on medication ordering and receiving from the pharmacy emphasized timely receipt and accurate record-keeping, which was not adhered to in this instance.
Plan Of Correction
1. What corrective action will be accomplished? Resident #48 received ordered inhaler @ 5:59pm on. Resident #48 was assessed by ARNP and found to have no adverse effect related to delayed administration of inhaler. The licensed nurses caring for resident #48 were re-educated on the facility policy for re-ordering medication. 2. How we identified other residents having the potential to be affected by the deficient practice & corrective action taken: An audit was conducted of current residents who have physicians order/receives inhalers to ensure all are stocked and re-ordered timely. 3. Measures/systematic changes put into place: The licensed nurses were re-educated by the DON/Designee on the facility policy for re-ordering medications (including inhalers). Re-ordering medication (including inhalers) was added to new nurse hire orientation and annual education. 4. How Corrective action will be monitored: The DON/Designee will conduct a daily audit (for 5 weeks) of residents with a physician order for inhalers to ensure the inhaler is available and re-ordered timely. The results of this audit will be reviewed at the monthly QA meeting until compliance has been determined.
Failure to Timely Reorder and Administer Asthma Medication
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a routine breathing medication was reordered and received in a timely manner for a resident with a diagnosis of Seizure and Asthma. On March 12, a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) confirmed that the inhaler for asthma was not available for Resident #48 at the prescribed time. The LPN initially stated that the inhaler was reordered on March 10, but documentation revealed that the reorder actually occurred on March 12, with delivery on March 13. The March Medication Administration Record confirmed the inhaler had not been administered, and a progress note indicated that the physician was contacted and ordered the medication to be administered once received. Resident #48, who was admitted with diagnoses including Seizure and Asthma, expressed that the facility occasionally runs out of medication. The resident's Care Plan included interventions to give medications as ordered and monitor for side effects and effectiveness. During an interview, the Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) and the Director of Nursing (DON) acknowledged the concern, with the ADON presenting the inhaler to the surveyor. The DON explained that inhalers should be reordered before they run out, depending on the type of inhaler, and referenced a policy on medication ordering and receiving that emphasized timely receipt from the pharmacy.
Plan Of Correction
1. What corrective action will be accomplished? Resident #48 received ordered inhaler @ 5:59pm on Resident #48 was assessed by ARNP and found to have no adverse effect related to delayed administration of inhaler. The licensed nurses caring for resident #48 were re-educated on the facility policy for re-ordering medication. 2. How we identified other residents having the potential to be affected by the deficient practice & corrective action taken: An audit was conducted of current residents who have physicians order/receives inhalers to ensure all are stocked and re-ordered timely. 3. Measures/systematic changes put into place: The licensed nurses were re-educated by the DON/Designee on the facility policy for re-ordering medications (including inhalers). Re-ordering medication (including inhalers) was added to new nurse hire orientation and annual education. 4. How Corrective action will be monitored: The DON/Designee will conduct a daily audit (for 5 weeks) of residents with a physician order for inhalers to ensure the inhaler is available and re-ordered timely. The results of this audit will be reviewed at the monthly QA meeting until compliance has been determined.
Failure to Protect Residents' Information
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure the privacy and confidentiality of residents' personal and medical information. During an observation at the Northside Nursing station, a demographic sheet containing a resident's information was found visible and unattended on the counter. Staff I, an LPN, acknowledged the breach, explaining that the paperwork was left by a person who came to pick up a deceased resident. The LPN confirmed that no resident information should be visible or left unattended, indicating a lapse in following the facility's protocol for safeguarding residents' information. Additionally, during a dining observation, paperwork containing residents' information was found unattended on a chair in the dining room. The Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) was informed and confirmed that the paperwork should not have been left unattended. The Director of Nursing (DON) stated that the facility has measures in place to protect residents' information, but the observations indicate these measures were not effectively implemented. The facility's policy on HIPAA security measures emphasizes the importance of maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of residents' information, which was not adhered to in these instances.
Plan Of Correction
1. The resident demographic sheet was removed from the counter and secured in the resident's chart. The unattended paperwork ("activities haircut list") was removed from the dining room chair and secured. 2. A facility-wide audit was conducted to ensure no other resident's information was inappropriately placed and visible. No other information was found visible. 3. All staff training/education was provided by the DON/Designee on ensuring resident privacy and confidentiality. *Resident privacy and confidentiality training will be included in new hire and annual education. 4. The DON/Designee will conduct daily (for 5 weeks) facility observation rounds audit to ensure that no resident information is visible. The results of this audit will be reviewed at the monthly QA meeting until compliance has been determined.
Medication Error Rate Exceeds Acceptable Threshold
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a medication error rate of 5% or lower, as evidenced by an error rate of 13.89% out of 36 opportunities. During a medication observation, an LPN was found administering medications to a resident outside the prescribed time frame. The medications, which included Bumetanide, Calcium Acetate, Carvedilol, and Ferrous Sulfate, were scheduled to be given at 9:00 AM, but were not administered until after 11:07 AM. The LPN admitted to being busy with other duties, which delayed the administration of the medications. Additionally, Vancomycin, which was ordered at midnight, was not in stock, and the LPN had to contact the physician and pharmacy to follow up on its availability. The Director of Nursing confirmed that the facility's policy allows for medications to be administered within an hour before or after the scheduled time. However, the delay in administering the medications and the unavailability of Vancomycin contributed to the high medication error rate. The facility's policy on medication administration emphasizes that medications should be administered as prescribed and within the designated time frame, but this was not adhered to in this instance, leading to the deficiency.
Plan Of Correction
1. What corrective action will be accomplished? Resident #379 showed no adverse effect from late medication administration (46 minutes). The physician for Resident #379 was notified of the late medication administration. No new orders were received. 2. How we identified other residents having the potential to be affected by the deficient practice & corrective action taken: The DON/Designee conducted an audit of the AM (9:00AM) medication pass to ensure medications are administered timely. 3. Measures/systematic changes put into place: The pharmacy nurse consultant provided "med-pass" education/competency to licensed nurses. Med-pass education/competency will be added to licensed nurse new hire and annual education. Medication administration times will be reviewed by the DON and pharmacy consultant to ensure there is enough time to administer medications within the required time frame and adjust times as indicated. 4. How corrective action will be monitored: The DON/Designee will conduct daily (times 5 weeks) random audit observation of nurses AM (9:00AM) med-pass, to ensure that medications are administered timely. The results of this audit will be reviewed at the monthly QA meeting until compliance has been determined.
Medication Administration Deficiency
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a medication error rate of 5% or lower, resulting in an observed error rate of 13.89% out of 36 opportunities. During a medication observation, an LPN on the Northside medication cart was found administering medications to a resident outside the prescribed time frame. The medications were scheduled to be given at 9:00 AM, with an acceptable administration window from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM. However, the LPN had not administered the medications by 11:07 AM, citing being busy with other duties as the reason for the delay. Additionally, one of the medications was not in stock because it was ordered by the physician at midnight the previous night, and the LPN had to contact the physician and pharmacy to follow up on its availability. The facility's policy on medication administration states that medications should be administered within 60 minutes of the scheduled time unless specified otherwise by the prescriber. The Director of Nursing confirmed this policy during the survey. Despite this policy, the facility's medication distribution system failed to ensure timely administration, contributing to the high error rate. The surveyor's findings highlighted a lack of adherence to the established medication administration schedule and insufficient staffing or system processes to prevent unnecessary interruptions in medication administration.
Plan Of Correction
1. What corrective action will be accomplished? Resident #379 showed no adverse effect from late medication administration (46 minutes). The physician for Resident #379 was notified of the late medication administration. No new orders were received. 2. How we identified other residents having the potential to be affected by the deficient practice & corrective action taken: The DON/Designee conducted an audit of the AM (9:00AM) medication pass to ensure medications are administered timely. 3. Measures/systematic changes put into place: The pharmacy nurse consultant provided
Improper Medication Storage in Facility
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure proper storage of medications and biologicals for five residents, leading to a deficiency in compliance with the 59A-4.112(6), FAC Drug Storage regulation. Observations revealed that prescription and non-prescription medications were improperly stored at the bedside of several residents. For instance, a plastic bag of bottled pills was found on the nightstand of one resident, and a bottle of medication was observed on the side table of another resident. These medications were not secured in a locked refrigerator or medication room, as required by the regulation. Additionally, during a medication observation, two bottles labeled Acetic Irrigation Solution were found on the nightstand of a resident, which should have been stored in the medication cart. Another resident had a bingo card with discontinued medication in the medication cart, which should have been removed and either sent back to the pharmacy or destroyed. These findings indicate a lack of adherence to the facility's policy on medication storage, which mandates that all medications be stored according to the manufacturer's recommendations to ensure proper sanitation, temperature, light, moisture control, segregation, and security. Interviews with staff members, including LPNs and an RN, revealed that rounds were conducted to check the condition of residents and the environment for safety. However, the presence of medications at the bedside suggests that these rounds were not effective in identifying and addressing the improper storage of medications. The facility's failure to comply with the drug storage regulation was further confirmed by a review of the facility's policy and a statement from the Pharmacist Consultant, who emphasized the importance of removing discontinued medications from the cart.
Plan Of Correction
1. What corrective action will be accomplished? The bottled pills inside a plastic bag were removed from Resident #381's bedside and secured. The was removed from Resident #47's bedside and secured. The from Resident #12's bedside was removed and secured. The 2 bottles labeled Acetic Irrigation Solution were removed from Resident #47's bedside. The bingo card labeled tablet of discontinued medication for Resident #65 was returned to the pharmacy. 2. How we identified other residents having the potential to be affected by the deficient practice & corrective action taken: The DON/Designee conducted an audit of occupied resident rooms and medication carts to ensure no medications or biologicals were at bedside and no discontinued medications were in the med carts. 3. Measures/systematic changes put into place: The DON/Designee re-educated the nursing staff on the facility policy for storage of medications and biologicals. Education for storage of biologicals was added to the new hire orientation and annual nursing education. The pharmacy nurse consultant will audit medication carts monthly to ensure no discontinued medications are stored in cart. 4. How corrective action will be monitored: The DON/Designee will conduct daily observation room rounds audit (times 5 weeks) to ensure no medications or biologicals are at bedside. Med cart audit for discontinued medications weekly (times 5 weeks). The results of these audits will be reviewed at the monthly QA meeting until compliance has been determined.
Failure to Secure Sharp Objects
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a safe and sanitary environment as required by regulations. During the survey, a shaving razor was observed protruding from a resistant container in a resident's room. This posed a potential hazard to residents, as the razor was not fully secured within the container. Staff B, an LPN, was notified of the issue and acknowledged that the razor should have been completely inside the sharps container to ensure resident safety. Additionally, lancets were found unattended on top of medication cart #1 at the South nursing station. Staff A, an LPN, admitted to leaving the lancets on top of the cart because they forgot. Later, Staff H, an RN, was observed leaving lancets unattended on the same cart, stating it was acceptable while in use, but then placed them inside the cart when questioned. These actions indicate a lack of adherence to safety protocols regarding the storage of sharp objects. The Director of Nursing confirmed that the facility's policy requires staff to ensure that shaving razors are fully inside containers and that lancets should not be left unattended on medication carts. The facility's policy on accidents and supervision emphasizes maintaining an environment free of accident hazards and providing adequate supervision to prevent accidents. However, the observations during the survey revealed lapses in following these protocols, leading to the identified deficiencies.
Plan Of Correction
1. What corrective action will be accomplished? The lancets were removed and secured from the top of the medication cart #1. The shaving razor was disposed of and secured in the resistant sharps container. 2. How we identified other residents having the potential to be affected by the deficient practice & corrective action taken: A facility observation audit of medication carts and sharps containers was conducted by the DON/Designee to ensure no lancets were accessible on the medication carts and no objects were protruding from the sharps containers. 3. Measures/systematic changes put into place: The DON/Designee re-educated the nursing staff on the facility policy for "homelike environment" including no lancets accessible, no objects protruding from the sharps containers, and facility policy for accidents and supervision. These educations will be added to new hire and annual education. The DON/designee will conduct daily facility rounds to ensure no lancets are accessible on medication carts and no objects are protruding from sharps containers. 4. How corrective action will be monitored: The DON/Designee will conduct daily (times 5 weeks) observation audit of medication carts and sharps containers to ensure resident safety and homelike environment is maintained. The results of this audit will be reviewed at the monthly QA meeting until compliance has been determined.
Privacy Breach of Resident Information
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to uphold residents' right to privacy of personal information, as evidenced by multiple observations of unattended paperwork containing residents' information left visible in public areas. During a morning observation at the North Nursing station, a demographic sheet with a resident's information was found unattended on the counter. Staff I, an LPN, acknowledged the breach, explaining that the paperwork was left by someone who came to pick up a deceased resident. The LPN confirmed that no resident information should be visible and stated that they usually keep all residents' information with them. Later, during a dining observation, paperwork with visible resident information was found unattended on a chair in the dining room. The ADON, who was present in the room, was informed and retrieved the paperwork, confirming it contained residents' information and should not have been left unattended. The DON was interviewed and reiterated that the facility has measures in place to safeguard residents' information, emphasizing that no resident information should be visible or left unattended. A review of the facility's HIPAA Security Measure policy indicated that reasonable and appropriate measures should be implemented to protect residents' identifiable information.
Plan Of Correction
1. The resident demographic sheet was removed from the counter and secured in the resident's chart. The unattended paperwork ("activities haircut list") was removed from the dining room chair and secured. 2. A facility-wide audit was conducted to ensure no other resident's information was inappropriately placed and visible. No other information was found visible. 3. All staff training/education was provided by the DON/Designee on ensuring resident privacy and confidentiality. *Resident privacy and confidentiality training will be included in new hire and annual education. 4. The DON/Designee will conduct daily (for 5 weeks) facility observation rounds audit to ensure that no resident information is visible. The results of this audit will be reviewed at the monthly QA meeting until compliance has been determined.
Deficiency in Generator Maintenance
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain its essential electric system generator in accordance with NFPA 101 standards. During a Life Safety Survey tour, it was observed that the generator room lacked high mortality spare parts, which are crucial for the maintenance and quick repair of the generator. This deficiency was identified during an inspection conducted at 2:00 pm on March 11, 2025, with the Maintenance Director present. The absence of these critical spare parts indicates a lapse in the facility's preparedness to ensure the generator's functionality in emergencies. The generator is required to supply power within 10 seconds, and regular maintenance and testing are mandated by NFPA 110. However, the lack of spare parts suggests that the facility may not be able to meet these requirements consistently, potentially compromising the safety and well-being of the residents. During a staff interview, the Maintenance Director acknowledged the deficiency, and this finding was also discussed with the Administrator during the exit conference. The report highlights the importance of having necessary spare parts readily available to maintain compliance with safety standards and ensure the reliability of the emergency power system.
Plan Of Correction
1. What corrective action will be accomplished? The following spare parts were ordered for our two on-site generators: 200 KW Generac Generator and 50KW Kato light Generator: * All engine filters: oil & air * All cooling system hoses & block heater hoses * All engine belts * Engine oil * Engine coolant 2. How we identified other residents having the potential to be affected by the deficient practice & corrective action taken: This deficiency could affect the occupants of the facility in the case of a loss of power. However, no residents have been affected by this practice. 3. Measures/systematic changes put into place: Once the supplies have been delivered, the Maintenance Director will establish a monthly inspection log to monitor all high mortality spare parts in the Generator Room. 4. How corrective action will be monitored: The Maintenance Director will ensure that all high mortality spare parts stored in the Generator Room are maintained in good working order and are available for use as needed. The inspection log will be reviewed at the monthly QA meeting until compliance has been determined. 1. What corrective action will be accomplished? The following spare parts were ordered for our two on-site generators: 200 KW Generac Generator and 50KW Kato light Generator: * All engine filters: oil & air * All cooling system hoses & block heater hoses * All engine belts * Engine oil * Engine coolant 2. How we identified other residents having the potential to be affected by the deficient practice & corrective action taken: This deficiency could affect the occupants of the facility in the case of a loss of power. However, no residents have been affected by this practice. 3. Measures/systematic changes put into place: Once the supplies have been delivered, the Maintenance Director will establish a monthly inspection log to monitor all high mortality spare parts in the Generator Room. 4. How corrective action will be monitored: The Maintenance Director will ensure that all high mortality spare parts stored in the Generator Room are maintained in good working order and are available for use as needed. The inspection log will be reviewed at the monthly QA meeting until compliance has been determined.
Latest citations in Florida
Surveyors found that the facility failed to comply with 42 CFR 483.73(a) by not conducting the required annual review and update of its Emergency Preparedness (EP) plan. During record review, no documentation showed that the EP plan had been reviewed or updated within the past year, and the Administrator confirmed that the Emergency Management Plan had not been reviewed or revised as required.
Surveyors found that smoke/fire-rated enclosures were not properly maintained, with penetrations in smoke barriers in several general storage rooms across multiple smoke compartments. The Maintenance Director stated that insulation and fiberglass were used to pack and cover these holes but could not confirm that the materials were approved for fire-rated construction. Inspectors observed penetrations covered with fiberglass and noted a hole in one fiberglass panel in a storage room, resulting in a deficiency under NFPA 101 requirements for smoke barrier construction.
Surveyors found that fixed patient-care electrical equipment was not properly maintained or inspected in accordance with NFPA 99. In one room, a bedside remote had mismatched insulation and exposed wiring, and in another room, a call button receptacle had exposed low-voltage conductors. The Maintenance Director acknowledged both issues and reported that new bed remotes had been received but not yet installed.
Surveyors found that the facility failed to maintain a safe, clean, and homelike environment, with strong, persistent urine and feces odors noted throughout multiple halls and confirmed by staff. On two nursing units, hallways and resident rooms contained torn flooring, food debris, broken blinds, dirty and leaking toilets and sinks, rusted and corroded fixtures, missing outlet covers with oxygen concentrators plugged in, exposed light sockets, unmade and visibly soiled beds, and black, mold-like substances on walls and around toilet bases. Bathrooms had missing ceiling tiles, cracked door facings with brown stains, used briefs and torn toilet paper on floors, and toilets with brown or rust-like buildup. Outside, the patio and fencing area had broken and rotted railings, exposed rusted nails, fallen palm fronds, and overgrown vegetation, and the Administrator acknowledged the area was not safe for residents. Housekeeping and maintenance staff described daily cleaning and a work-order process, but the Maintenance Director reported being unaware of many of the observed issues, and the DON confirmed there was no specific environmental cleaning policy despite job descriptions and a general policy requiring a safe, sanitary, and comfortable environment.
A resident exited the building through a bedroom window, walked off the property, and was observed and redirected by staff with assistance from law enforcement, who encountered the resident down the road and helped escort the resident back. The facility’s internal documentation lacked staff or witness statements and characterized the event as the resident remaining on facility grounds without injury. Despite the resident’s account, a police report, and a maintenance staff report confirming that the resident left the premises and that law enforcement responded, the DON did not report the incident to required state and federal agencies, even though the DON acknowledged that any incident involving law enforcement response must be reported.
A resident with moderate cognitive impairment and a history of stroke was repeatedly observed over several days in visibly soiled clothing and bedding, with a strong urine odor, despite stating multiple times that he had requested assistance with changing and hygiene. Documentation indicated he was independent with toileting and personal hygiene and only occasionally incontinent, but his care plan lacked detail on the level of assistance needed, while an LPN reported he actually required staff help with bathing, grooming, toileting, and care. Laundry practices involved leaving clean, labeled clothing bagged in the linen room for nursing staff to distribute rather than returning it directly to rooms, and the DON reported that staff were expected to round every two hours and as needed to keep residents clean and dry, although there were no written ADL or resident care policies in place.
Surveyors observed four full O2 cylinders on one nursing unit stored unsecured directly on the floor under a sign labeled "FULL CYLINDERS" instead of in a secured storage rack. The ADON confirmed the cylinders were full and should not be on the ground. Reference to NFPA 99 showed that freestanding cylinders must be protected from damage and properly chained or supported in a stand or cart. The DON and Maintenance Director both acknowledged that O2 cylinders are required to be stored in a secure rack, should never be on the floor, and that unsecured cylinders on the floor present a safety risk.
A resident with multiple cardiopulmonary conditions and a documented full code status was found unresponsive without pulse or respirations during the night shift. A CNA notified the RN, who either instructed CNAs to clean and cover the resident or, per her and an LPN’s account, called a code blue and performed CPR with the LPN for about 20 minutes before stopping, without calling 911. The RN believed the resident was on hospice and did not verify code status, then notified the DON, provider, and family instead of EMS. Several hours later, after the DON called the facility and asked whether 911 had been contacted, the RN called 911 and briefly reinitiated CPR shortly before EMS arrived and pronounced the resident deceased, documenting postmortem changes. The facility’s investigation and root cause analysis found that staff failed to follow policy requiring immediate EMS activation and continuous CPR for full code residents until EMS arrival, leading to an Immediate Jeopardy finding.
A resident with full code status was found unresponsive without respirations or pulse during the night shift. An RN and an LPN initiated CPR but did not activate EMS, and they discontinued CPR after about 20 minutes. The RN, who lacked documented orientation and competency assessment and had obtained BLS certification through a fully online, non–instructor-led course, pronounced the resident deceased without authority and later stated she believed the resident was on hospice and did not verify code status. The LPN’s BLS certification was expired, and a CNA with an expired BLS certification performed several chest compressions despite facility policy that CNAs were not to perform CPR. The RN had not participated in documented code blue drills, and leadership confirmed that required clinical orientation and skills competencies had not been completed for her, leading surveyors to determine that staff were not adequately trained or competent to respond to a cardiopulmonary arrest for a full code resident, resulting in an Immediate Jeopardy finding.
Surveyors found multiple instances of improper use of relocatable power taps (RPTs) and extension cords during a facility tour with the Maintenance Director. In the social services office, an RPT was plugged into another RPT connected to a wall outlet, with the cord running across a walkway and taped to the floor. In the multipurpose room, a television was plugged into an extension cord, and in the MDS office, an RPT was plugged into another RPT with an outlet adapter in use. These conditions did not comply with NFPA 101, NFPA 99, and NFPA 70 standards governing electrical equipment, power strips, and extension cords.
Failure to Annually Review and Update Emergency Preparedness Plan
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified a deficiency related to the facility’s Emergency Preparedness (EP) Program under 42 CFR 483.73(a). During record review at 4:00 PM, surveyors examined the facility’s EP documentation and found no evidence that the emergency preparedness plan had been reviewed or updated on an annual basis as required. The regulation mandates that LTC facilities develop and maintain an emergency preparedness plan that is reviewed and updated at least annually to comply with applicable Federal, State, and local emergency preparedness requirements. In an interview, the Administrator acknowledged that the facility’s Emergency Management Plan had not been reviewed or updated. No documentation was provided to show that the required annual review and update of the EP plan had occurred. The deficiency is based solely on the lack of documented annual review and update of the emergency preparedness plan by facility administration; no specific resident cases or clinical events were described in the report.
Plan Of Correction
Preparation and/or execution of the Plan of Correction does not constitute admission or agreement of the provider of the truth of the facts alleged or conclusions set forth in the statement of deficiencies. The Plan of Correction is prepared and/or executed solely because it is required by the provision of Federal and State law. Facility EP was reviewed and signed off on by the DON, Maintenance Director and Administrator. The facility has determined that all residents have the potential to be affected. An in-service education program will be conducted by the administrator. The administrator will conduct monthly random checks to verify completed documentation.
Improper Repair of Smoke Barrier Penetrations in Multiple Smoke Compartments
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified a deficiency in the facility’s maintenance of smoke/fire-rated enclosures, specifically related to penetrations in smoke barriers in multiple smoke compartments. During an interview, the Maintenance Director reported that insulation was used to pack holes and then covered with fiberglass in general storage rooms in smoke compartments 1, 2, and 3, but was unable to confirm whether these materials were approved for use in fire-rated walls. Subsequent observation showed that the penetrations were indeed covered with fiberglass, and one general storage room in smoke compartment 2 had a hole in one of the fiberglass panels. The report states that this failure to properly maintain penetrations through smoke/fire-rated construction could allow smoke and flammable gases to spread to other areas and cause the smoke/fire-rated construction to fail to perform as designed.
Failure to Maintain and Inspect Patient-Care Electrical Equipment
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified a deficiency in the facility’s compliance with NFPA 99 requirements for testing and maintaining fixed patient-care electrical equipment. During an observation in one resident room, the bedside remote was found to have two different types of insulation and exposed wiring. In another resident room, the call button receptacle was observed with exposed low-voltage conductors. These conditions were noted during a survey of two of six smoke compartments. During an interview conducted at the time of the observations, the Maintenance Director stated that the facility had just received a new shipment of bed remotes and had not yet replaced the existing ones. The Maintenance Director also acknowledged the issue with the exposed conductors at the call button receptacle. The surveyors cited this as a failure to properly inspect and maintain fixed patient care electrical equipment in accordance with NFPA 99 (2012 Edition), sections 10.3 and 10.5.2.1.
Widespread Odors and Environmental Disrepair in Resident Care Areas
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified that the facility failed to provide a safe, clean, comfortable, and homelike environment as required by 42 CFR 483.10(i). Upon entrance to the building on multiple days, surveyors noted a strong, pungent odor of urine and feces throughout the facility, with the odor particularly strong on the 200, 300, and 400 halls. Staff interviews confirmed that the building "usually smells like" urine, and staff attributed the odor to residents defecating and urinating on the floor, an old building structure, and cleaning products that sanitize but do not deodorize. Housekeeping staff reported that they clean resident rooms daily but that nursing staff must first clean fecal and urine waste before housekeeping can sanitize, and delays by nursing staff in doing so postponed housekeeping’s ability to address the odors. On the 300 unit, surveyors observed multiple environmental and sanitation issues in resident rooms and bathrooms. The hallway had torn flooring, food particles, and a butter knife on the floor. Individual rooms had food debris, a straw on the floor, and broken blinds. Bathrooms contained dark brown stains on walls, rusted ceiling tile trim, toilets with brownish substances inside, and wet floors around toilets. Trim was missing around toilet bases, exposing a black, mold-like substance. Corroded and rusted sink faucet handles, leaking faucets, rusted pipes under sinks with buildup of corrosion, and rusted sprinklers were observed. Some toilets and three-in-one commodes had duct tape on them, and bathroom walls had black, mold-like substances. Doors and door facings showed rust, scrape marks, chipped and peeling paint, and exposed wood. In some rooms, electrical outlets had no covers while oxygen concentrators were plugged into them, boards covered windows, light fixtures over beds lacked covers with sockets exposed, and one fixture had only one bulb. A resident bed appeared dirty with a black substance on it, and dresser drawers were broken with drawer fronts on the floor. On the 400 unit, surveyors again noted a strong odor of urine upon entry and found additional environmental deficiencies. Bathrooms had missing ceiling tiles, broken emergency light covers with no pull strings, and toilet tank covers that did not fit properly, exposing the inside of the tank. In one bathroom, torn toilet paper and used briefs were lying in the corner of the floor, and toilets had brown, rust-like substances inside the bowls. Door facings appeared cracked with brown substances along the sides, and toilets had brownish-black buildup around the bases with broken, peeling trim. Light bases on walls had rust-like appearances, multiple rooms had broken or missing blinds, and some outlets lacked covers while oxygen concentrators were plugged into them. Some rooms had unmade beds, exposed wires at outlets, toilets with dark brown-black rings around the base and flooring, uncovered light fixtures, leaking sinks with rusted pipes, loose flooring, loose toilet seats, and dry red substances on door frames. Surveyors also observed deficiencies in the outdoor patio area adjacent to the locked unit. The gate code was broken, and a resident lock was placed on the gate. The patio and surrounding fencing had fallen palm fronds on the grass, broken and rotted wooden fence railings, unsteady railings, and multiple exposed rusted nails protruding from the railings where boards were broken or detached. Overgrown trees and bushes from the perimeter extended through the fence railings. When asked, the Administrator acknowledged that the area was not safe for residents and stated that they planned to have it redone in the future. The Maintenance Director reported that he and one other maintenance person relied on work orders and verbal reports to identify needed repairs and stated he was not aware of the specific room and equipment issues on the 300 and 400 units. Housekeeping staff stated they would report broken items via a work order book or text to maintenance, but one housekeeper, who cleaned the 400 unit daily, denied noticing stains or biohazard-like materials on walls and door frames despite the surveyors’ observations. Review of facility documents showed that the housekeeper job description required staff to maintain assigned work areas in a clean, safe, comfortable, and attractive manner and to report maintenance problems noted during cleaning. A facility policy titled "Policies and Practices - Control" stated that the facility must maintain a safe, sanitary, and comfortable environment for personnel, residents, visitors, and the public. The DON stated that blinds had been changed out and new cabinets and door handles purchased, and that staff were directed to use standard precautions when cleaning rooms, but also stated there was no policy specific to cleaning the environment. These observations and interviews demonstrated that the facility did not maintain sanitary, orderly, and comfortable interior conditions, did not adequately control offensive odors, and did not ensure that the physical environment, including resident rooms, bathrooms, and outdoor areas, was maintained in a safe, clean, and homelike condition as required by regulation.
Failure to Report Elopement Incident Involving Law Enforcement
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to report an elopement incident to required state and federal agencies as mandated by 42 CFR 483.12(c). On the referenced date, Resident #5 exited the building through his bedroom window around 12:15 PM and walked across the facility property toward the perimeter fence. A CNA observed the resident outside and called for assistance, after which staff redirected and escorted the resident back into the building and placed him on one-to-one supervision. The facility’s internal incident documentation noted the window exit and subsequent maintenance inspection of the window seals but did not include any staff or witness statements. The DON later stated that the resident never left facility grounds and was returned without injury, and therefore the incident was not considered reportable. However, interviews and external records showed that the resident did leave the facility premises and that law enforcement was involved. Resident #5 recalled being outside the facility, being brought back by staff and a “police man,” and being told by the officer not to leave again. A police report from the local police department confirmed an encounter with the resident outside the facility and that an officer assisted staff in escorting him back. Maintenance staff (Staff G) also reported that the resident climbed out the window, left the facility property, and was stopped “down the road,” then redirected back with law enforcement assistance. In interviews, the DON initially denied that law enforcement had been notified or involved, then later acknowledged that law enforcement had responded but asserted they did not come into the facility. The DON also confirmed awareness that any incident in which law enforcement investigates or responds is required to be reported, yet the elopement and law enforcement involvement were not reported to the State Survey Agency or other required officials within the required time frames.
Failure to Provide Timely ADL and Hygiene Care to a Dependent Resident
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors found that the facility failed to provide necessary ADL care, including grooming and hygiene, to a dependent resident over multiple days. The resident was repeatedly observed in visibly soiled clothing with a strong odor of urine, first standing in his doorway holding onto a wheelchair with wet navy pants saturated down to his calves, stating he had been waiting for staff to change his clothes. More than an hour later the same day, he remained in the same soiled pants and shirt while seated in a wheelchair near the nurses’ station. The following day, he was again observed wearing the same soiled clothes, smelling of urine, with his shirt stained with food and a dark liquid. His room had a strong urine odor, his bed was soiled with urine, and only two pairs of pants were seen on a chair with no other clothing available in the room. On a subsequent observation, he was seated on the edge of his bed wearing different pants and no shirt, with yellow-stained sheets beneath him and his previously soiled clothes on the floor; he reported that he had requested assistance but no staff had come, so he changed himself. Record review showed the resident had a history of stroke and repeated unspecified conditions, with a recent Quarterly MDS indicating moderate cognitive impairment (BIMS score of 10). The MDS documented him as independent for toileting, showering, personal hygiene, and related ADLs, and only occasionally incontinent, but his care plan did not specify the level of assistance he required for incontinence care and other ADLs. In contrast, an LPN familiar with the resident stated he required staff assistance with bathing, grooming, toileting, and care, and that he did not refuse such assistance and appropriately requested help. The LPN also explained that personal clothing was laundered at the facility and left bagged in the linen room for nursing staff to distribute, rather than being returned directly to resident rooms. The DON stated that staff were expected to follow best practices, including rounding every two hours and as needed to keep residents clean and dry, and acknowledged that all residents required some level of assistance with ADLs. The DON further stated the facility had no written ADL, resident care, or quality of care policies, despite these expectations.
Unsecured Storage of Full Oxygen Cylinders on Nursing Unit
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors found that the facility failed to ensure safe storage of oxygen cylinders on the West 1 unit. At 9:03 a.m., four full oxygen cylinders were observed stored unsecured directly on the ground rather than in the designated secured cylinder storage rack, under a sign labeled "FULL CYLINDERS." Photographic evidence was obtained of this condition. At 9:18 a.m., the ADON confirmed that the four cylinders were full and acknowledged they should not be stored on the ground. Review of NFPA 99 (2021) 11.6.2.3(11) indicated that cylinders must be protected from damage and that freestanding cylinders must be properly chained or supported in a proper stand or cart. Later that day, the DON stated that oxygen cylinders should be stored in a secure rack and never directly on the ground, and acknowledged that unsecured cylinders on the floor were a safety risk. The Maintenance Director also confirmed that oxygen cylinders should be in a secure rack and never stored directly on the ground, stating that cylinders stored on the floor can tip over and cause damage. These observations and interviews demonstrated noncompliance with regulatory and NFPA standards for safe storage of oxygen cylinders.
Plan Of Correction
This plan of correction constitutes a written allegation of compliance for the deficiency cited. Submission of this plan of correction is not an admission that the deficiency exists or that one was cited correctly. This plan of correction is submitted to meet the requirements established by the State and Federal law. The four unsecured [R] cylinders on the West 1 unit were secured. The Nursing Department completed a baseline audit of [R] cylinder storage within the facility to ensure all [R] cylinders were secured and stored properly. Ongoing education will be completed with current facility staff regarding the facility's [R] storage policy and procedure; and will be completed during new hire and agency orientation to the facility by ADON/designee. Audits will be completed by the Director of Nursing/designee regarding adherence to the facility's [R] storage policy and procedure twice weekly x 4 weeks, then weekly x 4 weeks, then monthly x 4 months, or until continued substantial compliance has been met. Results of audits will be reported to the QAPI Committee on a monthly basis by the Director of Nursing/designee.
Failure to Provide Required CPR and Activate EMS for Full Code Resident
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to provide immediate and appropriate basic life support, including CPR, to a resident with a documented full code status when the resident was found unresponsive. The resident had diagnoses including a slow-progressing circulatory condition involving narrowing or blockage of vessels, a condition that restricts airflow and makes breathing difficult, and other listed conditions. The physician’s order specified “Full Code,” and the care plan documented that the resident was under court-ordered guardianship with wishes honored as full code. The facility’s policy required that in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest, staff immediately call for assistance, overhead page a code, begin CPR in the absence of a valid DNR, and continue CPR until EMS assumes responsibility or the resident responds. On the night of the incident at approximately 2:00–2:07 a.m., a CNA found the resident unresponsive in bed and notified the RN on duty. One CNA’s written statement indicated that the RN said she already knew the resident was going to die and instructed the CNA to clean and cover the resident. Another CNA’s account stated that the RN came to the room, took vital signs, and then instructed her to clean the resident. The RN’s own written statement and interview indicated that she called a code blue, that an LPN brought the crash cart, and that they performed CPR for approximately 20 minutes. The LPN’s statement corroborated that a code blue was called, that he brought the crash cart, and that CPR was performed for about 20 minutes before the RN stopped and stated that the resident was gone or words to that effect. The RN acknowledged that the resident had no vital signs but was warm and not responding, and she stated that she believed the resident was on hospice and therefore did not call 911. After CPR was discontinued, the RN did not activate EMS and instead notified the DON, the provider, and the resident’s family. The DON documented receiving a message from the RN that the resident had no pulse and no blood pressure and that the assigned nurse had initiated CPR but was unable to revive the resident. The DON later received a text from the RN that the resident had expired. The DON stated that at approximately 6:00 a.m. she called the facility and asked if 911 had been called, and upon learning it had not, she instructed the RN to call 911. The RN then reinitiated CPR at around 6:00 a.m., approximately four hours after the resident was first found without pulse or respirations, and stated that they tried to do something until EMS arrived because EMS had to see them doing CPR. EMS records showed activation at 6:18 a.m., arrival at 6:27 a.m., and pronouncement of death at 6:31 a.m., with documentation that CPR was not attempted by EMS because it was considered futile and that the resident exhibited postmortem changes. The Medical Director confirmed that the resident was full code and stated that staff should have started CPR and called 911 and that CPR should not be done four hours after a resident is pronounced dead. The facility’s investigation and a root cause analysis concluded that the RN and LPN did not follow the facility’s established policy and procedure to call 911 and administer CPR to a full code resident until EMS arrival. The root cause was identified as the nurse’s belief that the resident was on hospice and her failure to check the resident’s code status as outlined in facility policy. The surveyors determined that the failure to immediately activate EMS and to continue CPR until EMS arrival for this full code resident constituted noncompliance with the requirement to provide basic life support and resulted in an Immediate Jeopardy determination.
Plan Of Correction
This plan of correction is submitted as required under Federal and State regulations and statutes applicable to long term care providers. This plan of correction does not constitute an admission of liability on the part of the facility, and such liability is hereby specifically denied. The submission of this plan does not constitute agreement by the facility that the surveyors' findings or conclusions are accurate, that the findings constitute a deficiency, or that the scope or severity regarding any of these deficiencies cited are correctly applied. Resident #1 no longer resides in the facility as of 4.7.26. This has the potential to affect all residents in the facility. All codes to 1.1.26 were reviewed to ensure protocol was followed. No outliers were noted. All licensed nurses received education from the Director of Nursing and/or nursing management on [R] policy and procedure and Florida [R] policy. This includes where to find the code status. Education addressed what to do for full code hospice residents. Education completed with CNA's that protocol is that they do not assist with [R] or breaths during a [R] event. All education will be added to new hire orientation. Code drills will occur 3 x weekly x 4 weeks, followed by 2 x weekly x 4 weeks, followed by 1 x weekly x 4 weeks. Results will be brought to QAPI to determine need for ongoing auditing.
Removal Plan
- Educated licensed nurses on CPR policy and procedure and Florida Do Not Resuscitate (DNRO) policy, including where to find code status and what to do for full code hospice residents; emphasized initiating emergency services immediately when resident is full code, continuing CPR until EMS arrives, and that nurses cannot pronounce death or stop CPR on a full code resident unless instructed by EMS.
- Implemented emergency response “Code Blue” drills on all three shifts, including full code and full code hospice scenarios, with emphasis on calling 911 immediately.
- Educated licensed nurses and CNAs on the facility abuse and neglect policy, including resident rights.
- Required licensed nurses to complete a CPR post-test; restricted staff who have not completed education/testing from working until completion.
- Educated licensed nurses regarding change in condition.
- Placed laminated instructions on how to overhead page during a code at all nursing station phones and other designated phones.
- Held a Quality Improvement Performance Committee meeting to review root cause analysis findings and approve recommendations.
- Held a Quality Improvement Performance Committee meeting to review progress of the plan and approve recommendations.
- Completed a “like resident” audit of all expired residents and rehospitalizations for a defined period to determine whether involved staff were the same as the code event and whether proper procedure was followed.
Failure to Provide Competent CPR Response and Verify Code Status for Full Code Resident
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to ensure that nursing staff possessed and demonstrated the competencies required to respond appropriately to a cardiopulmonary emergency for a resident with full code status. Resident #1, who was designated as full code, was found unresponsive and without respirations or pulse at approximately 2:07 a.m. Clinical staff, consisting of an RN (Staff A) and an LPN (Staff B), initiated CPR but did not activate Emergency Medical Services (EMS) as required by facility policy for a full code resident. After approximately 20 minutes of CPR, the RN and LPN stopped resuscitation efforts without EMS involvement. The RN, without authority to do so, pronounced the resident deceased based on the absence of vital signs and did not verify the resident’s code status before discontinuing CPR. The RN later stated she believed the resident was on hospice and therefore did not call 911, and that she was confused about which residents were hospice and which were full code. The LPN reported that he assumed the RN had called 911 and continued CPR for about 20 minutes until the RN “called the code” and left, and he acknowledged that he knew CPR should continue until EMS arrival but did not speak up. Four hours after CPR was stopped, at approximately 6:00 a.m., the RN restarted CPR and activated EMS after receiving instructions from the DON. The investigation further identified that the RN had no documented orientation, onboarding education, or skills competency assessments since hire, despite being promoted to weekend supervisor. Her BLS certification had been obtained through a fully online course without an instructor or live feedback. The LPN’s BLS certification was expired, and a CNA who performed several chest compressions also had an expired BLS certification, even though facility policy did not permit CNAs to perform CPR. Facility records showed that monthly code blue drills had been conducted, but there was no documentation that the RN had ever participated in these drills. Leadership interviews confirmed that required clinical orientation and competency evaluations had not been completed for the RN, and that she had failed tests for a clinical manager position but was nonetheless functioning in a supervisory role. These actions and omissions led surveyors to determine that staff were not adequately trained or competent to respond to cardiopulmonary arrest for residents with full code status, resulting in an Immediate Jeopardy determination. The facility’s own root cause analysis, as reflected in meeting minutes, identified that the nurse did not check the resident’s code status and lacked knowledge about when CPR could be discontinued and when 911 should be called. The analysis documented that the nurse believed the resident was hospice and therefore did not start or continue CPR appropriately or call EMS when the resident was found without respirations and pulse. The facility assessment tool and policies referenced the need for staff training and competencies in identifying changes in condition, end-of-life care, advance care planning, and adherence to the CPR policy, but the documented events showed that these expectations were not met in practice for the staff involved in this incident. Surveyors concluded that the failure to ensure nursing staff were trained and competent to respond appropriately to cardiopulmonary arrest for a full code resident, including immediate initiation and continuation of CPR and activation of EMS, constituted noncompliance with requirements for sufficient and competent nursing staff. The failure affected Resident #1 and placed other full code residents at risk, leading to an Immediate Jeopardy finding that was later reduced in scope and severity after verification of an acceptable Immediate Jeopardy removal plan.
Plan Of Correction
This plan of correction is submitted as required under Federal and State regulations and statutes applicable to long term care providers. This plan of correction does not constitute an admission of liability on the part of the facility, and such liability is hereby specifically denied. The submission of this plan does not constitute agreement by the facility that the surveyors' findings or conclusions are accurate, that the findings constitute a deficiency, or that the scope or severity regarding any of these deficiencies cited are correctly applied Resident # 1 no longer resides in the facility as of 4.7.26. This has the potential to affect all residents in the facility. All licensed nurses were audited to ensure current [R] certification. Facility will ensure [R] certification through a [R] provider whose training includes a [R] on session either in a physical or virtual instructor-led setting in accordance with accepted national standards. Human resources, or designee, will audit monthly to ensure all licensed nurses have a current [R] certification.Education was completed with licensed nurses on initiating [R] services immediately when a resident is full code. Education included that [R] is to continue on a full code resident until [R] arrives and that the nurse cannot pronounce [R] on the full code resident and/or stop [R] until instructed by [R].Education will be added to new hire orientation.7 random licensed nurses will complete a knowledge quiz related to code events. Per week x 4 weeks, followed by 5 nurses x 4 weeks, then 3 nurses x 4 weeks. Results will be brought to QAPI to determine need for ongoing auditing.
Removal Plan
- Regional Director of Clinical Services educated the Administrator and Director of Nursing regarding the CPR policy and the need to immediately contact emergency medical services (911) in the event of a full code; Administrator and DON signed the education
- Regional Director of Clinical Services provided documented education to the Administrator and Director of Nursing regarding the CPR policy and the need to immediately contact emergency medical services (911) in the event of a full code
- Director of Nursing and/or nursing management educated all licensed nurses on the CPR policy and procedure, including where to find code status and what to do for full code hospice residents
- Reinforced through education that CPR must be initiated immediately for full code residents, continued until EMS arrives, and that nurses cannot pronounce death or stop CPR on a full code resident unless instructed by EMS
- Conducted an Ad Hoc Quality Improvement Performance Committee meeting to review root cause analysis recommendations related to the incident; recommendations approved
- Conducted a follow-up Ad Hoc Quality Improvement Performance Committee meeting to review progress on the plan; recommendations approved
Improper Use of Power Strips and Extension Cords in Multiple Facility Areas
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified deficiencies related to the use and maintenance of relocatable power taps (RPTs) and extension cords that did not comply with NFPA 101, NFPA 99, and NFPA 70 requirements. During a facility tour conducted between 11:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. with the Maintenance Director, surveyors observed in the social services office an RPT plugged into another RPT, which was then plugged into a wall outlet, with the cord running across a walkway and taped to the floor. In the multipurpose room, a television was found plugged into an extension cord, contrary to standards that prohibit using extension cords as a substitute for fixed wiring and require temporary extensions to be removed immediately after use. Further observations included the MDS office, where an RPT was plugged into another RPT and an outlet adapter was in use. These configurations did not meet the NFPA 99 provisions governing the proper use of power strips and extension cords, including requirements that power strips be appropriately rated and used only as intended, and that extension cords not be used as permanent wiring. During concurrent interviews, the Maintenance Director acknowledged these findings as they were observed by the surveyors.
Plan Of Correction
The RPT observed plugged into an RPT plugged into an outlet in the Social Services Office was removed. The extension cord used to plug in the television in the multipurpose room was removed. The RPT plugged into an RPT and outlet adapter in the MDS office was removed. Additional offices and resident care areas will be reviewed for the improper use of plug adapters, power strips and extension. The Executive Director/designee will educate the Maintenance Director on the importance of NFPA 101 Electrical Equipment- Power and Extension specific to the improper use of plug adapters, power strips, and extension and will continue to monitor in accordance with NFPA standards. Any findings will be reported to the monthly QAPI Committee for further review. The RPT observed plugged into an RPT plugged into an outlet in the Social Services Office was removed. The extension cord used to plug in the television in the multipurpose room was removed. The RPT plugged into an RPT and outlet adapter in the MDS office was removed. Additional offices and resident care areas will be reviewed for the improper use of plug adapters, power strips and extension. The Executive Director/designee will educate the Maintenance Director on the importance of NFPA 101 Electrical Equipment - Power and Extension specific to the improper use of plug adapters, power strips, and extension and will continue to monitor in accordance with NFPA standards. Any findings will be reported to the monthly QAPI Committee for further review.
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