Pennsylvania Nursing Home Loses License
Whispering Springs nursing home facility has lost its license after a recent facility inspection revealed violations that included expired medications, rodent feces, and failure to evacuate all residents during a fire drill. The Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare found 33 violations in a March 2009 inspections, 12 of which were a repeat of violations uncovered in 2008.
According to the Department of Public Welfare, violations at Whispering Pines nursing home included:
- A large amount of rodent feces found on the floor and pantry shelves at the facility;
- A fire alarm system malfunctioned, displaying five trouble codes. Two fire extinguishers were not charged and one resident was left behind during two fire drills, according to inspectors.
- Expired medication was found, improper documentation of medication, unaccounted for pills, and unrefrigerated insulin; and
- On several occasions in February 2009, the sole staff member on duty was not certified in first aid, as required by law.
Julia Harris is the facility's President. Harris said that she "has been assured that all cited violations have been corrected", but feels that the report did not accurately reflect what happened during the fire drills. According to Harris, "A specific resident of the facility refused to participate and evacuate the building." Harris said that facility staff documented the resident's refusal to leave, but tried to explain the situation away by saying, "Whispering Pines is a very good home. But, as usual, DPW makes up new rules and each inspector looks at them differently."
The owners of Whispering Pines is appealing the decision and the facility is allowed to operate during the appeal process. However, the facility has been forbidden to accept any new residents during the appeal process.
The Terry Law Firm is experienced in handling cases of nursing home abuse and neglect. Please visit our website or contact us at 1 (888) 317-2525 with any questions or concerns.
