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 Departments action. A hearing date has not been scheduled.
| Illinois Department
of Public Health 535 West Jefferson Street Springfield, Illinois 62761 Phone 217-782-4977 Fax 217-782-3987 TTY 800-547-0466 Questions or Comments |