Section 485. Maintenance and housekeeping

A. The hospice facility shall be maintained and equipped to provide a functional, sanitary, safe, and comfortable environment.

B. A documented preventive maintenance program shall be established to ensure that equipment is operative and that the interior and exterior of the building or buildings are maintained in good repair and free from hazards and litter.

C. The administrator shall designate an employee responsible for carrying out these functions and for training and supervising housekeeping and maintenance personnel.

D. The heating, ventilation and air conditioning system shall be capable of maintaining temperatures between 70°F and 80°F throughout patient areas.

E. The hospice facility shall have an effective pest control program either by maintenance personnel or by contract with a pest control company.

F. The hospice facility shall provide adequate space, equipment and supplies for any special services to be offered.

G. All furniture shall be kept clean and safe for use.

H. Over bed tables shall be available as needed.

I. Stretchers and wheelchairs shall be stored out of the path of normal traffic.

J. A sufficient number of wheelchairs and chairs shall be provided for patients whose physical conditions indicate a need for such equipment.

K. Refuse containers shall be emptied and cleaned at frequent intervals.

L. Hazardous cleaning solutions, compounds and substances shall be labeled, stored and kept under lock in a safe place separate from other materials.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 27, Issue 11, eff. March 2, 2011.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-162.5 of the Code of Virginia.