September 12, 2000

SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois Department of Public Health has fined Arden Courts Manorcare Health Services $10,000 (Statement of Violations) for failure to maintain a safe environment for its residents and to keep hazardous compounds in a locked storage room or cabinet. The 56-bed sheltered care facility is located at 3240 Milwaukee Ave. in Northbrook.

Responding to an incident report, Department surveyors learned an 85-year-old resident entered the facility's kitchen unattended and took dishwasher detergent from an unlocked cabinet. The resident, who was found holding the cleanser bottle, poured the liquid into a cup and stated that he had "drank milk." The man was admitted to a local hospital intensive care unit for treatment of chemical burns to his lips, tongue and mouth.

A Department-ordered plan of correction required the facility to ensure that all hazardous products are stored in locked cabinets or rooms.

Arden Courts Manorcare Health Services has requested a hearing on the Department's action. A hearing date has not been scheduled.