August 11, 1999

SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois Department of Public Health has fined Roosevelt Square $10,000 for failing to take precautions to prevent a resident from swallowing a cleaning disinfectant and other non-food objects. The 76-bed intermediate care facility for the developmentally disabled is located at 1501 Shomaker Drive in Murphysboro.

Following his release from the hospital after treatment for ingestion of a chemical substance, a review of the resident's chart by Department surveyors found that over a three-week period he swallowed various other objects, including liquid body soap, tissue paper, a quarter and part of a sponge. The facility, however, failed to review and update the resident's behavior program or to institute interventions to protect him from harm.

In addition, as part of their visit to the facility, the surveyors observed two housekeeping carts left unattended in the halls. The sections of the carts containing cleaning supplies and liquid disinfectants were unlocked and accessible to residents. When staff were questioned, they told surveyors that the carts are supposed to be kept locked, but the locks were broken. Roosevelt Square has requested a hearing on the Department's actions. A hearing date has not been scheduled. (Statement of Violation)

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