Press Release

March 9, 2000

WESTMONT NURSING HOME FINED

SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois Department of Public Health has fined Westmont Convalescent Center $10,000 (Statement of Violation) for failure to use proper safety equipment to move residents. The 215-bed skilled and intermediate care facility is located at 6501 S. Cass in Westmont.

As part of an annual licensure survey, Department surveyors found that staff did not properly move a 73-year-old resident from her bed to a wheelchair.

While moving the resident, a prescribed mechanical lift was not used, but instead two staff attempted to maneuver her into a wheelchair. The resident was dropped and her left leg was fractured.

In another incident, staff did not properly assist an 84-year-old resident into her wheelchair. While moving the resident, staff dropped her and she suffered a bruised left hip.

The Department ordered a plan of correction that included a review of facility policies and procedures related to the safety of residents, transfer of residents and use of gait belts and lifts.

Westmont Convalescent Center has requested a hearing on the Department’s action. A hearing date has not been scheduled.





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Illinois Department of Public Health
535 West Jefferson Street
Springfield, Illinois 62761
Phone 217-782-4977
Fax 217-782-3987
TTY 800-547-0466
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