Section 370. Maintenance and housekeeping

A. The nursing 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 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 (HVAC) system shall be capable of maintaining temperatures between 70°F to 80°F throughout resident areas.

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

F. The nursing 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 residents whose physical conditions indicate a need for such equipment.

K. Refuse containers shall be cleaned and emptied 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 13, Issue 17, eff. July 1, 1997; amended, Virginia Register Volume 22, Issue 07, eff. January 11, 2006.

Statutory Authority

§§ 32.1-12 and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.