Ambassador Healthcare At College Park
Inspection history, citations, penalties and survey trends for this long-term care facility in Fort Myers, Florida.
- Location
- 13755 Golf Club Pkwy, Fort Myers, Florida 33919
- CMS Provider Number
- 105387
- Inspections on file
- 25
- Latest survey
- February 13, 2026
- Citations (last 12 mo.)
- 4 (2 serious)
Citation history
Health deficiencies cited at Ambassador Healthcare At College Park during CMS and state inspections, most recent first.
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.
A cognitively impaired, frail resident with cancer, severe malnutrition, and documented moderate cognitive deficits repeatedly exhibited confusion, poor safety awareness, and treatment‑interfering behaviors such as pulling out IV/PICC lines. Despite therapy and psychiatric evaluations showing moderate cognitive impairment and a formal determination that the resident lacked decision‑making capacity, the facility’s elopement risk assessment classified the resident as not at risk, and the care plan was not updated to address elopement. On one morning, the front desk was left unattended and the front door remained accessible; the resident walked out unnoticed, crossed a road, and traveled about half a mile to a nearby college dorm, where staff found the resident disoriented, unsteady, and shaking and called EMS. Facility staff did not realize the resident was gone until contacted by campus security, did not document the elopement in the clinical record, and did not promptly reassess elopement risk, leading to an Immediate Jeopardy citation under F689 for failure to prevent accidents and provide adequate supervision.
Facility administration failed to ensure effective oversight and processes to prevent unsafe wandering and elopement when a cognitively impaired, confused, and frail resident with documented treatment-interfering behaviors and an incapacity determination walked past an unattended front desk, exited through an unlocked front door, and traveled off premises without staff knowledge. Despite prior documentation of moderate cognitive-communication deficits, fluctuating confusion, and dementia-level testing, the resident had been assessed as not at risk for elopement and was not reassessed. After the resident was found offsite and sent to the ER, leadership declined to classify the event as an elopement, did not document the incident or preventive measures in the clinical record, and a nurse reported being instructed not to document, contrary to the facility’s own elopement and documentation policies, resulting in an Immediate Jeopardy finding under F835.
A resident with moderately impaired cognition eloped from the facility without staff knowledge, was found at a nearby college dorm confused and unsteady, and was transported by EMS to a local ER, yet these events were not documented in the clinical record. Facility policy required specific, objective, and timely nurse’s notes with signatures and credentials, but staff reported being told not to chart the incident, and the only related BIMS assessment form on the date of return lacked a signature and credentials. This resulted in an incomplete and inaccurate medical record that did not reflect the resident’s elopement, ER visit, or subsequent assessment.
A resident with severe cognitive impairment and dependence for ADLs required two-person assistance for bed mobility, as specified in the care plan and Kardex. A CNA, unaware of this requirement and lacking Kardex training, provided care alone, resulting in the resident falling from bed and sustaining a forehead injury that required hospital treatment. Facility leadership confirmed this was neglect due to failure to follow the care plan.
A resident with severe cognitive impairment and mobility deficits fell from bed and sustained a forehead laceration requiring sutures when a CNA, unaware of the two-person assist requirement, provided care alone. The CNA had not been trained on the Kardex system, and the incident was substantiated as neglect by the DON and LNHA.
Two residents requiring assistance with meals were left with trays out of reach, delaying their dining assistance. Staff interviews revealed that CNAs delivered all trays before returning to assist, contrary to facility protocol. The RN and Unit Manager confirmed the need for immediate setup for residents needing help.
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.
Failure to Supervise Cognitively Impaired Resident Resulting in Unnoticed Elopement
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to ensure adequate supervision and a hazard‑free environment to prevent unsafe wandering and elopement for a cognitively impaired resident. The resident was admitted with diagnoses including esophageal cancer, severe protein‑calorie malnutrition, adult failure to thrive, and a history of immunosuppression therapy. Therapy and clinical evaluations shortly after admission documented moderate cognitive impairment, decreased insight, poor judgment, and decreased safety awareness. A Speech Language Pathology evaluation showed moderate cognitive‑communication deficits with impaired short‑term memory, problem solving, and executive functioning, and a SLUMS score indicating moderate cognitive impairment. The admission MDS BIMS score also indicated moderate cognitive impairment, and the care plan identified cognitive loss/dementia and fall risk. Multiple nursing and provider notes over the following weeks documented intermittent and worsening confusion, treatment‑interfering behaviors such as repeatedly pulling out IV/PICC lines, disorientation, and statements reflecting confusion. Despite this documentation, the facility’s Elopement Risk Evaluation completed on 11/6/25 concluded the resident was not at risk for elopement. The Unit Manager who completed the tool answered “No” to questions about cognitive impairment, poor decision‑making, exit‑seeking behaviors, wandering oblivious to safety, and history of elopement, while acknowledging the resident was independently mobile and able to exit the facility. On 11/19/25, a psychiatric APRN formally evaluated the resident for capacity at the request of the primary physician and documented that the resident lacked capacity to make decisions related to healthcare or long‑term placement, was significantly disoriented, and could benefit from a guardian or POA. Another APRN note the same day described significant disorientation and fluctuating mental status, with risk of delirium and unsafe behaviors. Nonetheless, the facility did not update the elopement risk assessment or care plan to reflect this change in condition and did not implement elopement‑specific interventions. On the day of the incident, staff notes and the facility’s own timeline show that the resident was last seen at the nursing station around mid‑morning, when he denied needing anything. The front desk receptionist left the front desk unattended to go to the kitchen, and the front door, which could be opened without staff intervention, was left accessible. Around that time, EMS exited the building with another resident, and the facility asserts the doors closed and locked, but the receptionist later stated that a visitor likely opened the front door, allowing the cognitively impaired resident to leave unnoticed. The resident walked out the front door, crossed a two‑lane road, and traveled approximately half a mile over uneven terrain and near multiple water retention ponds to a nearby college dormitory. College staff found him in the dorm, describing him as confused, disoriented, unsteady, shaking, disheveled, and unsure of where he was. EMS documentation noted he did not remember where he was supposed to be and believed he was in a different city. The facility did not become aware that the resident had left until contacted by campus security after EMS had been called, and there was no documentation in the clinical record that the resident had exited the facility without staff knowledge or supervision. Interviews with the Unit Manager indicated she was told not to document the incident and that no elopement re‑evaluation or care plan update was completed afterward. The facility’s failure to recognize and act on the resident’s documented cognitive impairment and lack of capacity, to accurately assess elopement risk, to maintain supervision at the front entrance, and to document the elopement led to the determination of Immediate Jeopardy under F689. The resident’s family member reported being very upset that they were not notified of the incident until 24 hours later and expressed concern about what could have happened while the resident was unsupervised outside the facility. The Administrator and DON acknowledged in interviews that the resident left the facility without staff knowledge and supervision, but the Administrator repeatedly resisted characterizing the event as an elopement, instead describing it as the resident going for a walk and forgetting to sign out. The Administrator also stated that she would allow residents she considered cognitively impaired but without a formal incapacity statement to leave unsupervised and was unaware of the psychiatric APRN’s documented incapacity determination at the time. The DON confirmed that she did not direct staff to make a late entry documenting the incident and did not order a new elopement risk assessment, stating she believed the resident was alert and oriented and that a new evaluation was only done when a resident newly expressed a desire to leave and “did not make sense.” These actions and inactions, in the context of extensive documentation of confusion and impaired safety awareness, contributed directly to the unsafe elopement and the cited deficiency for failure to prevent accidents and provide adequate supervision.
Removal Plan
- Resident #900 no longer resides at the facility and was successfully discharged home as planned.
- Resident #900 was immediately placed on 1:1 staff observation.
- A licensed nurse performed a complete skin inspection for Resident #900 with no new skin concerns identified.
- Resident #900’s cognitive status was re-evaluated using the BIMS assessment.
- The Administrator/Designee re-educated all staff on Missing Resident Drill and Elopement policy, emphasizing responding to door alarms, using the elopement binder, performing a resident headcount, and Administrator/DON notification.
- The Administrator modified the receptionist process for residents exiting the facility and added it to new hire education, including use of a binder with blue (requires supervision) and white (safe for unsupervised LOA) sheets, clinical team determination of supervision, and resident sign-in/sign-out for each LOA; front door opened by remote or keypad.
- The contracted vendor removed the automatic open option on the front double doors so doors remain locked with access by staff remote or keypad entry/exit only.
- The facility extended receptionist hours to 7:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m., 7 days/week.
- The front desk coverage process was updated to establish coverage when the receptionist is on break/steps away and to define the process for 9:00 p.m.–7:00 a.m. for assisting residents with LOA and/or visitors entering/exiting.
- Residents admitted in the last 30 days were re-evaluated for accuracy of new admission assessments and documentation related to cognitive status and elopement risk by the DON/Designee.
- The Administrator confirmed the LOA process is included in the new admission packet.
- The DON/Designee completed a new elopement risk assessment on all current residents in the electronic medical record system.
- The receptionist on duty for the event was re-educated on ensuring residents exiting the facility were approved by clinical staff prior to exit and on the binder/blue-white sheet LOA process and door access process.
- The DON/Designee re-educated all employees on F689 (including CMS definition of elopement), the updated facility elopement policy, documentation of resident incidents in the clinical record, and the new receptionist process for resident exiting (binder/blue-white sheets, clinical team determination, sign-in/sign-out, remote/keypad door access).
- All licensed nurses were educated on communicating physician changes to a resident’s capacity and notifying the DON and/or Administrator at the time of determination to ensure timely re-evaluation of elopement risk.
- An ad hoc QA meeting was held with the facility Medical Director in attendance via phone.
Failure of Administrative Oversight Leads to Undetected Elopement of Cognitively Impaired Resident
Penalty
Summary
Facility administration failed to provide effective oversight and implement processes to ensure resident safety related to unsafe wandering and elopement. A cognitively impaired, ambulatory, and confused resident with poor safety awareness exited the building through an unlocked front door after walking past an unattended front desk. The resident crossed a two-lane road and walked approximately half a mile over uneven terrain and near water ponds to a nearby college dormitory. Facility staff were unaware the resident had left until they were notified by college campus security about the resident’s transfer to a local emergency room via EMS. The resident had multiple documented indicators of cognitive impairment and safety risk prior to the incident. The admission MDS showed moderately impaired cognition with a BIMS score of 12 and a need for partial to moderate assistance with ambulation and activities of daily living. Speech therapy documented moderate cognitive-communication deficits with problems in short-term memory, problem solving, and executive functioning. Nursing and provider notes described intermittent confusion, pulling out IV lines, statements indicating disorientation, and treatment-interfering behaviors requiring close supervision and safety monitoring. A psychiatric APRN documented that the resident lacked capacity to make healthcare and long-term placement decisions, was unable to understand the consequences of not receiving care, and recommended a guardian or POA. Despite this, the admission elopement assessment scored the resident as not at risk for elopement, there were no subsequent elopement reassessments, and the care plan, while noting impaired cognition, did not translate into effective elopement risk management. After the resident left the facility unsupervised, the administration did not consider the event an elopement and did not document the incident or any measures to prevent further unsafe wandering in the clinical record. The Administrator characterized the event as the resident going out for a walk and failing to sign out, and stated the resident was cognitively intact based on a BIMS score obtained upon return, despite prior documentation of incapacity and dementia-level SLUMS scoring. The DON expressed a desire not to label the event as an elopement and acknowledged there was no documentation in the record about the incident, stating she did not want to enter a late note because the Administrator conducted the investigation. A Unit Manager LPN reported being told not to document anything and that the Administrator and DON would handle it. The facility had an elopement prevention policy defining elopement for incapacitated residents and requiring an elopement risk assessment, monitoring device, and care plan when such a resident wanders into an unsafe area or leaves the building, but these processes were not implemented for this resident. The lack of adequate supervision, failure to recognize and classify the event as an elopement, failure to reassess elopement risk, and failure to document the incident and related interventions led to a determination of Immediate Jeopardy under F835.
Removal Plan
- Resident #900 was successfully discharged home as planned.
- The Administrator/Designee completed staff re-education on Missing Resident Drill and Elopement with all staff members, emphasizing responding to door alarms, using the elopement binder, performing a resident headcount, and Administrator and DON notification.
- The Administrator/Designee completed Missing Resident Drills at varying times with staff members participating collectively from each department.
- The Administrator modified the receptionist process for residents exiting the facility and added this to education for newly hired staff, including use of a newly created binder with blue (supervision required) or white (safe for unsupervised LOA) sheets for each resident, requiring residents to sign in/out for LOA each time they leave, and opening the front door by remote or keypad.
- The facility’s contracted vendor removed the automatic open option on the front double doors so doors remain locked with access by staff remote or keypad entry/exit only.
- The facility extended receptionist hours and updated the front desk coverage process for breaks/step-away coverage and for after-hours coverage for LOA/visitors.
- The Chief Nursing Officer re-educated the Administrator and Director of Nursing on the CMS definition of elopement, their roles to ensure resident safety, and the expectation to complete a risk management report for elopement events.
- The facility changed its elopement policy to reflect CMS’s definition of elopement.
- The interdisciplinary team was re-educated on reporting and documenting resident incidents in the clinical record, the alleged deficient practice outlined on the immediate jeopardy template, and federal regulation F835, emphasizing adherence to medical record documentation policies and procedures.
- Residents admitted in the last 30 days were re-evaluated for accuracy of new admission assessments and documentation related to cognitive status and elopement risk.
- The receptionist on duty for the event was re-educated on ensuring residents exiting the facility were approved by clinical staff prior to allowing exit and on use of the LOA binder/blue-white sheets, sign in/out requirement, and door access by remote/keypad.
- The Director of Nursing/Designee completed new elopement risk assessments on all current residents in the EMR.
- All licensed nurses were educated on communicating physician determinations/changes in resident capacity to notify the DON and/or Administrator timely to ensure prompt re-evaluation of elopement risk.
- Staff were re-educated on the CMS definition of elopement, the updated elopement policy, documentation of resident incidents in the clinical record, and the new receptionist process for resident exits (including binder/blue-white sheets, clinical team determination of supervision for LOAs, sign in/out requirement, and door access by remote/keypad).
- An ADHOC QAPI meeting was held with the medical director participating by phone, and the QAPI committee approved the recommendations.
- QA meetings included review of the new receptionist process for residents exiting the facility.
Failure to Accurately Document Resident Elopement and ER Visit in Medical Record
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to maintain a complete and accurate medical record for a resident who eloped from the facility and was sent to the emergency room. Facility policy required that nurse’s notes be written by licensed/qualified nursing personnel, address the resident’s condition, be specific and objective, and be signed with the writer’s name and credentials, with frequency of entries based on resident need and changes in condition. The resident was admitted in early November and had an admission MDS showing a BIMS score of 12, indicating moderately impaired cognition. Nursing progress notes documented the resident’s level of consciousness and orientation on the evening of one date, with the next note two days later, but there was no documentation in the clinical record of the resident’s elopement, emergency room visit, or return to the facility. Interviews and external records confirmed that on a late November morning the resident exited the facility without staff knowledge or supervision, walked to a nearby state college dormitory, and was found there confused, disoriented, unsteady, and shaking. Campus personnel contacted EMS, which transported the resident to a local emergency room, with EMS records documenting times of response, departure, and transfer. The DON and Administrator verified the elopement and lack of documentation in the clinical record, and a unit manager stated she had been told not to document anything about the incident in the record, believing the DON and Administrator would handle it. The Administrator reported that a BIMS test was administered upon the resident’s return, but the provided BIMS form was unsigned and lacked the writer’s credentials, further contributing to the incomplete and noncompliant documentation of the resident’s medical record.
Failure to Follow Care Plan Results in Resident Injury Due to Neglect
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when staff failed to follow the care plan and safety precautions for a resident with Alzheimer's Disease, anxiety disorder, and major depressive disorder, who had severely impaired cognition and was dependent on staff for activities of daily living (ADLs). The resident required substantial or maximum assistance of two staff members for bed mobility, as documented in both the care plan and the electronic Kardex system. Despite these requirements, a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) provided care alone, rolled the resident toward her, and the resident fell out of bed, sustaining a forehead injury that required hospital transfer and sutures. Interviews revealed that the CNA was unaware of the two-person assist requirement and had not been trained on the Kardex system during orientation. The CNA reported having provided solo care to the resident multiple times previously. The Director of Nursing (DON) and Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA) confirmed that the CNA did not follow the resident's plan of care, and both identified this as neglect. The facility's investigation substantiated that the failure to follow the care plan and lack of staff training directly led to the resident's fall and injury.
Failure to Follow Care Plan Results in Resident Fall and Injury
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a resident with Alzheimer's Disease, severe cognitive impairment, and significant ADL self-care deficits experienced a fall with injury during care. The resident's care plan and Kardex specified the need for substantial or maximum assistance of two staff members for bed mobility due to weakness and impaired balance. However, a CNA provided care alone, rolled the resident toward herself, and the resident fell out of bed, sustaining a forehead laceration that required hospital transfer and sutures. Staff interviews revealed that the CNA was unaware of the resident's two-person assist requirement and had not received training on the Kardex system during orientation. The DON and LNHA confirmed that the CNA did not follow the resident's plan of care, and the incident was substantiated as neglect. The facility's policy required that residents unable to perform ADLs independently receive necessary services, but this was not followed in this case, resulting in an avoidable accident and injury.
Failure to Provide Timely Dining Assistance
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide timely assistance with dining for two residents who required help with their meals. Resident #2, diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease, was observed lying in bed with a breakfast tray placed out of reach on an over-the-bed table. The resident required partial to moderate assistance with eating, but the tray was not set up, and the resident was not awakened to eat. Similarly, Resident #3, who had a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm, was also observed with a breakfast tray out of reach. This resident required setup or cleanup assistance with eating, but the tray was left on the table without being set up, and the resident was not positioned to eat. Interviews with staff revealed that the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) responsible for delivering meal trays left them out of reach until all trays were delivered, delaying assistance for residents needing help. The Registered Nurse (RN) and Unit Manager confirmed that residents requiring assistance should have their trays delivered last and set up immediately. However, this protocol was not followed, leading to the deficiency. The Director of Nursing and Regional Nurse Consultant reiterated that trays should not be left without setting up and waking the resident, as outlined in the facility's care instructions.
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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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