Palm Garden Of Aventura
Inspection history, citations, penalties and survey trends for this long-term care facility in North Miami Beach, Florida.
- Location
- 21251 E Dixie Highway, North Miami Beach, Florida 33180
- CMS Provider Number
- 105610
- Inspections on file
- 21
- Latest survey
- July 15, 2025
- Citations (last 12 mo.)
- 1
Citation history
Health deficiencies cited at Palm Garden Of Aventura during CMS and state inspections, most recent first.
A deficiency was cited when a nurse failed to wear a gown, as required by Enhanced Barrier Precautions, while administering IV therapy to a resident with an active infection and central line. Although the facility's policy and care plan specified the use of both gloves and gowns for such high-contact care, only gloves were used during the observed procedure. Staff interviews confirmed knowledge of the protocol, but it was not followed during this incident.
During a Life Safety tour, it was observed that 4 out of 30 ceiling tiles in the Mechanical room near the kitchen were broken or missing, violating NFPA 101 standards. The Maintenance Director acknowledged the deficiency, which was also discussed with the Administrator.
The facility failed to maintain its sprinkler system according to NFPA 101 standards, as observed during a Life Safety tour. The Post Indicator Valve was missing a lock, a critical component for system security. This deficiency was acknowledged by the Maintenance Director and discussed with the Administrator during the exit conference.
The facility failed to maintain its essential electric system generator as per NFPA 101 standards due to the absence of high mortality spare parts. This deficiency was observed during a Life Safety Survey tour, acknowledged by the Maintenance Director, and discussed with the Administrator.
The facility's laundry room was found to be unsanitary, with rusted washer bases, improper chemical storage, and drainage issues. The Director of Environmental Services acknowledged these concerns, which were contrary to the facility's cleaning policy.
Two LPNs in a facility signed off medications for residents before administration, contrary to policy. One LPN did so to familiarize herself with the regimen, while the other did so for a single medication via tube. The DON acknowledged the need for re-education despite prior training.
Two LPNs at the facility were observed signing off medications for two residents before administration, contrary to the facility's policy. One LPN claimed unfamiliarity with the rule, while the other cited the simplicity of the task as a reason. The DON confirmed that all nurses had been trained on proper procedures.
The facility's laundry room was found to be unsanitary, with chemicals improperly stored on the floor, rusted washer bases, and washers draining into a dirty sink. The Director of Environmental Services acknowledged these issues, which were contrary to the facility's cleaning policy.
A resident with a DNR order was subjected to CPR by staff who failed to verify the resident's code status, despite clear facility policies. The RN involved did not check the electronic medical records due to panic, leading to a breach of the resident's right to die with dignity. The incident was reported as neglect.
A resident with cognitive impairment and a history of elopement risk exited the facility undetected through a dining room door. Despite working alarms and a care plan addressing elopement risk, the resident was found in the parking lot by an LPN. The facility's failure to provide adequate supervision and ensure the effectiveness of the alarm system led to this deficiency.
Failure to Follow Enhanced Barrier Precautions During IV Therapy
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified a deficiency in the facility's infection prevention and control program related to the implementation of Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBP) for a resident receiving intravenous (IV) therapy. During a medication administration observation, a registered nurse performed hand hygiene and donned gloves but failed to wear a gown as required by the facility's EBP policy when providing central line care. The nurse administered IV medication and handled the resident's IV site without the additional protective equipment mandated for residents under EBP. The resident involved had been admitted with a diagnosis of osteomyelitis of the vertebra and was receiving antibiotic therapy via IV for this condition. The care plan for this resident included interventions specifying the use of Enhanced Barrier Precautions due to the presence of an IV line, which is considered a high-contact area and a potential source of cross-contamination. Facility policy and staff interviews confirmed that both gloves and gowns are required for staff when providing care to residents under EBP, particularly during high-contact activities such as IV administration. Interviews with the risk manager and the nurse involved confirmed that the facility's protocol was not followed during the observed care. The risk manager stated that staff are educated to wear both gloves and gowns for residents under EBP, and signage and PPE caddies are used to support compliance. The nurse acknowledged awareness of the requirement but did not don a gown during the observed procedure, attributing the lapse to nervousness. This failure to adhere to established infection control protocols constituted the cited deficiency.
Plan Of Correction
The Nurse-Staff A was immediately reeducated by the Director of Quality Assurance on 7/15/2025 on enhanced barrier precautions (EBP) and the usage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) during medication administration via central line. Resident #2 is receiving IV antibiotic therapy, and enhanced barrier precautions are being observed during IV administration and other tasks requiring EBP. An audit was completed by the Director of Clinical Services on 7/18/25 of all current residents with central lines to ensure that enhanced barrier precautions were adhered to when administering IV medications. Licensed staff were re-educated by the Director of Education or designee starting on 7/21/25 on infection control practices to include enhanced barrier precautions and appropriate PPE while administering medication via central line. Weekly audits/observations will be conducted for 4 weeks, then monthly for 3 months, by the Director of Clinical Services or designee to ensure that licensed staff are adhering to enhanced barrier precautions and appropriate Personal Protective Equipment is worn during medication administration for residents with central lines. Findings of audits will be reported to QAPI to ensure ongoing compliance.
Ceiling Tile Deficiency in Mechanical Room
Penalty
Summary
The facility was found to be non-compliant with NFPA 101 standards during a Life Safety tour conducted on April 22, 2025. Observations revealed that in the Mechanical room near the kitchen, 4 out of 30 ceiling tiles were either broken or missing. This deficiency was noted during the inspection at 12:36 pm, with the Maintenance Director present. The Maintenance Director acknowledged the findings during the staff interview conducted at the same time. These observations were also discussed and acknowledged by the Administrator during the exit conference. The report cites specific sections of NFPA 101 and NFPA 1 standards that were not met, indicating a failure to maintain the ceiling tiles in accordance with these safety codes.
Plan Of Correction
The 4 missing ceiling tiles were replaced by the Director of Plant Operations on 04/22/2025. An audit of the mechanical room was conducted on 04/21/2025 by the Director of Plant Operations and no other areas were missing ceiling tiles. The Regional Director of Plant Operations educated the Plant Operations department of LSC Section 18.3 and 19.3 Protection requirements to ensure compliance with protection NFPA 101. Monthly audits of the mechanical room will be completed by Plant Operations Director or designee to determine if there are any missing tiles. Findings will be taken to QAPI.
Sprinkler System Maintenance Deficiency
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain its sprinkler system in accordance with NFPA 101 standards. During a Life Safety tour conducted at 1:30 pm on April 22, 2025, it was observed that the Post Indicator Valve, which is a critical component of the sprinkler system, was missing a lock. This deficiency was identified during the inspection with the Maintenance Director present. The Maintenance Director acknowledged the missing lock during a staff interview conducted at the same time as the observation. This issue was also discussed and acknowledged by the facility's Administrator during the exit conference. The lack of a lock on the Post Indicator Valve indicates a failure to adhere to the required maintenance and testing protocols as outlined in NFPA 25, which governs the inspection, testing, and maintenance of water-based fire protection systems.
Plan Of Correction
The missing lock on the post indicator valve was replaced on 04/23/2025 by the Director of Plant Operations in accordance with NFPA 25. An audit of the post indicator valve was conducted on 04/22/2025 by the Director of Plant Operations and no other locks were missing. The Plant Operations Department was educated on maintenance and Testing K353 CFR(s): NFPA 101 Sprinkler System requirements by the Regional Director of Plant Operations. Monthly audits of the post indicator valve will be completed by the Plant Operations Director or designee to determine if there are any missing locks. Findings will be taken to QAPI.
Facility Lacks Essential Generator Spare Parts
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 facility did not have generator high mortality spare parts on the premises. This deficiency was identified during an inspection conducted at 4:24 pm on April 22, 2025, with the Maintenance Director present. The Maintenance Director acknowledged the absence of these critical spare parts during a staff interview conducted at the same time. This acknowledgment indicates that the facility was aware of the deficiency in maintaining the essential electric system generator as per the required standards. The deficiency was further discussed and acknowledged by the Administrator during the exit conference. The lack of generator high mortality spare parts suggests a failure in the facility's preparedness to maintain the essential electric system, which is crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of the residents in the event of a power outage.
Plan Of Correction
Findings will be taken to QAPI. Spare parts were purchased by the Plant Operations Director on 05/15/2025 and is currently located on site. No residents were affected by this deficient practice. The Plant Operations Team was educated by the Regional Director of Plant Operations on 05/15/2025 on Maintenance and testing of stored energy power sources (Type 3 EES) are in accordance with NFPA 111. Quarterly audits will be conducted by Plant Operations Director or designee to ensure there is adequate supplies of mortality spare parts per NFPA 111. Results will be taken to QAPI. Spare parts were purchased by the Plant Operations Director on 05/15/2025 and is currently located on site. No residents were affected by this deficient practice. The Plant Operations Team was educated by the Regional Director of Plant Operations on 05/15/2025 on Maintenance and testing of stored energy power sources (Type 3 EES) are in accordance with NFPA 113. Quarterly audits will be conducted by Plant Operations Director or designee to ensure there is adequate supplies of mortality spare parts per NFPA 111. Results will be taken to QAPI.
Laundry Room Sanitation Deficiency
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a clean and sanitary environment in the laundry room, as observed during a tour conducted with the Director of Environmental Services and the facility's administrator. The inspection revealed several issues, including rusted washer bases, improper drainage of washers into a two-compartment sink with visible dirt and grime, and chemicals such as detergent, bleach, iron sour, and softener being stored directly on the floor. Additionally, the garbage can pallets were soiled, a large hole was present in the wall, and one washer had dry drainage residue with no clear source identified. The Director of Environmental Services, who had been in his position for two months, acknowledged the concerns during an interview. He confirmed the improper storage of chemicals on the floor instead of on a pallet, the rusty washer bases, and the unsanitary condition of the two-compartment sink used for washer drainage. The interview also highlighted the soiled condition of the garbage can pallets, the presence of a large hole in the wall, and the dry drainage residue on one of the washers. The facility's policy on laundry area cleaning, which outlines daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning processes, was reviewed. The policy includes daily sanitization of folding tables, linen shelves, and soiled linen hampers, as well as weekly sanitization of chemical boxes and plumbing fixtures. Despite these guidelines, the observed conditions in the laundry room indicated a failure to adhere to the established cleaning schedule, resulting in the identified deficiencies.
Plan Of Correction
The base of the washer was painted and the hole in the wall was repaired on 5/05/2025 by Environmental Services Director. The two-compartment sink was cleaned; the garbage can pallets were washed, and the residue was removed from the washer on 05/06/2025 by Environmental Services. The four chemicals—detergent, bleach, iron sour, and softener—have been elevated off the floor on a palate. No residents were affected by this deficient practice. The Environmental Services Director was educated on maintaining a clean and sanitary environment in the laundry room on 04/18/25 by the Executive Director. The laundry staff was in-service on 05/02/2025 by the Director of Clinical Services on following the cleaning schedule and using the TELS system to notify Plant Operations if repairs are needed. The Director of Environmental Services or Designee will conduct audits of the laundry room to ensure that washer bases are free from rust, no chemicals are stored on the floor, garbage can pallets, two-compartment sink, and laundry equipment are clean and free from residue. Audits will be conducted daily for 1 week, then weekly for 4 weeks, then every two weeks for 2 months, and finally monthly. Findings of audits will be presented at the monthly QAPI meeting to ensure ongoing compliance.
Medication Administration Deficiency
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to adhere to pharmaceutical procedures and policies during medication administration for two residents. During an observation at 8:00 AM, an LPN was seen signing off medications for a resident before they were actually administered. Similarly, at 9:50 AM, another LPN signed off on a medication for a different resident prior to its administration. These actions were contrary to the facility's policy, which mandates that medications should only be signed off as given after they have been administered to the residents. Interviews with the involved staff revealed a lack of awareness and understanding of the correct procedures. The first LPN admitted to signing off on medications ahead of time to familiarize herself with the resident's medication regimen, indicating a misunderstanding of the proper protocol. The second LPN justified his premature signing off by stating it was only one medication being administered via a tube, suggesting a possible underestimation of the importance of following the correct procedure regardless of the situation. The Director of Nursing confirmed that all nurses had received in-service training on medication administration, yet acknowledged the need for re-education on the correct procedures. The facility's policy clearly states that staff should comply with applicable laws and the state operations manual when administering medications, highlighting a gap between policy and practice in this instance.
Plan Of Correction
Staff nurse A and B were immediately reeducated during the survey on pharmaceutical procedure and the facility's policy during medication administration and on signing the Medication Administration Record after administration of medication. Residents #4 and #50 are receiving medications as ordered according to pharmaceutical procedure and the facility's policy and have exhibited no negative outcome. An audit was conducted of current residents by the Director of Clinical Services to ensure that medications were administered prior to the administration record being signed. No issues were identified. Staff nurse A and B were immediately reeducated during the survey by the Director of Clinical Services on pharmaceutical procedure and the facility's policy during medication administration. Licensed Nurses were reeducated starting by the Director of Clinical Services on pharmaceutical procedure and the facility's policy during medication administration and not signing the medication record until medications have been administered. The Director of Clinical Services or Designee will conduct random audits of the medication administration record for 10 residents to determine if the medication administration record was signed prior to the administration of medication, daily x 4 then weekly for 4 weeks, then quarterly x 4. Findings of audits will be presented at the monthly QAPI meeting to ensure ongoing compliance.
Medication Administration Deficiency
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to adhere to pharmaceutical procedures during medication administration for two residents. During an observation at 8:00 AM, an LPN was seen signing off medications for a resident before they were actually administered. Similarly, at 9:50 AM, another LPN signed off on a medication for a different resident prior to its administration. Both instances were confirmed through interviews with the involved staff members, who admitted to signing off medications prematurely. The LPNs involved provided explanations for their actions. One LPN stated that she was not informed that signing off medications before administration was not allowed and did so to familiarize herself with the resident's medication. The other LPN mentioned that he signed off on the medication early because it was only one medication being administered via a tube. The Director of Nursing confirmed that all nurses had received training on medication administration policies, which clearly state that medications should only be signed off as given after they are administered.
Plan Of Correction
Staff nurse A and B were immediately reeducated during the survey on pharmaceutical procedure and the facility's policy during medication administration and on signing the Medication Administration Record after administration of medication. Residents #4 and #50 are receiving medications as ordered according to pharmaceutical procedure and the facility's policy and have exhibited no negative outcome. An audit was conducted of current residents by the Director of Clinical Services to ensure that medications were administered prior to the administration record being signed. No issues were identified. Staff nurse A and B were immediately reeducated during the survey by the Director of Clinical Services on pharmaceutical procedure and the facility's policy during medication administration. Licensed Nurses were reeducated starting on by the Director of Clinical Services on pharmaceutical procedure and the facility's policy during medication administration and not signing the medication record until medications have been administered. The Director of Clinical Services or Designee will conduct random audits of the medication administration record for 10 residents to determine if the medication administration record was signed prior to the administration of medication, daily x 4 then weekly for 4 weeks, then quarterly x 4. Findings of audits will be presented at the monthly QAPI meeting to ensure ongoing compliance.
Laundry Room Sanitation Deficiency
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a clean and sanitary environment in the laundry room, as observed during a tour with the Director of Environmental Services and the facility's administrator. The deficiencies included improper storage of chemicals such as detergent, bleach, iron sour, and softener, which were stored directly on the floor instead of on a pallet. Additionally, the washer bases were rusted, and the washers were draining into a two-compartment sink that had visible dirt and grime. The garbage can pallets were soiled, a large hole was observed in the wall, and one washer had dry drainage residue with no clear source identified. The Director of Environmental Services, who had been in his position for two months, acknowledged these concerns during an interview. The facility's policy on laundry area cleaning outlined a systematic approach to maintaining cleanliness, including daily, weekly, and monthly tasks. However, the observations indicated that these procedures were not being followed, leading to the unsanitary conditions noted in the report.
Plan Of Correction
The base of the washer was painted and the hole in the wall was repaired on 5/05/2025 by Environmental Services Director. The two-compartment sink was cleaned; the garbage can pallets were washed, and the residue was removed from the washer on 05/06/2025 by Environmental Services. The four chemicals—detergent, bleach, iron sour, and softener—have been elevated off the floor on a palate. No residents were affected by this deficient practice. The Environmental Services Director was educated on maintaining a clean and sanitary environment in the laundry room on 04/18/25 by the Executive Director. The laundry staff was in-service on 05/02/2025 by the Director of Clinical Services on following the cleaning schedule and using the TELS system to notify Plant Operations if repairs are needed. The Director of Environmental Services or designee will conduct audits of the laundry room to ensure that washer bases are free from rust, no chemicals are stored on the floor, garbage can pallets, two-compartment sink, and laundry equipment are clean and free from residue. Audits will be conducted daily for 1 week, then weekly for 4 weeks, then every two weeks for 2 months, and finally monthly. Findings of audits will be presented at the monthly QAPI meeting to ensure ongoing compliance.
Failure to Honor DNR Order Leads to CPR on Resident
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to honor the advance directives of a resident with a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order, leading to the initiation of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) by staff. This incident involved a registered nurse (RN) who, upon finding the resident unresponsive with no vital signs, did not verify the resident's code status before starting CPR. The facility's policy clearly states that CPR should not be initiated for residents with a DNR order, yet this protocol was not followed, resulting in a breach of the resident's right to die with dignity. The resident in question had a documented DNR order signed by both the resident's son and the physician. The resident was admitted with chronic respiratory failure and was receiving oxygen therapy, suctioning, and tracheostomy care. Despite these clear directives and the resident's medical condition, the RN, in a state of panic, failed to check the electronic medical records for the resident's code status and proceeded with CPR, which was against the resident's wishes. Interviews with staff revealed a lack of communication and verification of the resident's code status during the emergency. Multiple staff members, including CNAs and LPNs, were involved in the CPR process without confirming the resident's DNR status. The Director of Nursing (DON) was informed of the incident and confirmed that the RN did not check the code status due to panic. This oversight was reported as neglect, as it did not align with the facility's policies and procedures regarding advance directives and code status verification.
Removal Plan
- Resident pronounced deceased in the emergency room by Hospital personnel.
- Nurse Practitioner was notified that Resident was transported to the Hospital.
- Notification of event to Department of Children and Family.
- Ongoing reoccurring training-Education on code status, DNR policy, abuse and neglect policy initiated for current staff. Ancillary team members and CNAs to understand their role during a code blue (taking notes, bringing crash cart, calling 911, clearing hallway for EMS).
- Resident's chart.
- Audit of medical records to validate DNR/CPR orders.
- Federal immediate report submitted with notification to DCF.
- Code books reviewed for accuracy (books located at each nursing station).
- The nurse involved in the incident was removed from the scheduled pending complete investigation.
- Current/ongoing, now on monthly cycle-Code blue drills to be performed as follows: every shift, then every other day on different shift, then weekly then monthly to include weekends and holidays until all nurses have attended a code blue drill with no deficiencies. Alternating different scenarios of code status to increase staff understanding.
- Medical Director notified of events and interventions.
- Crash carts audited.
- Nurses' CPR cards audited for validation.
- ADHOC meeting with Interdisciplinary Team (IDT) and Medical Director.
- Quiz presented to licensed nurses to validate knowledge on code status and procedures.
- New admissions/re-admission records to be reviewed daily in morning clinical meetings and on weekends by the Nursing Supervisor for accurate code status.
- Audit results and outcome of drills to be presented weekly at Ad HOC meetings. Then monthly in QAPI to determine the effectiveness of the plan and if revisions to be done as necessary.
- AHCA Federal five-day report completed.
- Submit adverse report if applicable.
Resident Elopement Due to Inadequate Supervision
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide adequate supervision for a vulnerable resident, leading to an elopement incident. The resident, who was cognitively moderately impaired and dependent on a wheelchair, exited the facility undetected through the first-floor dining room door. The incident occurred despite the facility's policy and procedure for managing missing residents and elopements, which was not effectively implemented in this case. The resident was found in the parking lot by an LPN who was on her break. The resident expressed that he was going to post a letter and was returned to the facility without resistance. The resident's care plan indicated a history of elopement risk with wandering behavior, yet the interventions in place were insufficient to prevent the incident. The resident's cognitive impairment and dependence on a wheelchair were documented, but the facility did not ensure the necessary supervision to prevent the elopement. Interviews with staff revealed that the alarms on the exit doors were in working condition, but the incident still occurred. The CNA assigned to the resident had last seen him around 7:30 PM, shortly before the elopement. The facility's failure to monitor the resident adequately and ensure the effectiveness of the alarm system contributed to the deficiency, as the resident was able to leave the premises without detection.
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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