Inspection Reports for
Autumn Lake Healthcare at Cromwell

CT, 06416

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Deficiencies (last 7 years)

Deficiencies (over 7 years) 11 deficiencies/year

Deficiencies are regulatory violations found during state inspections.

96% worse than Connecticut average
Connecticut average: 5.6 deficiencies/year

Deficiencies per year

28 21 14 7 0
2018
2019
2020
2022
2023
2024
2025

Occupancy

Latest occupancy rate 96% occupied

Based on a September 2025 inspection.

This facility has shown a steady increase in demand based on occupancy rates.

Occupancy rate over time

40% 60% 80% 100% 120% Jan 2018 Oct 2020 Apr 2022 Feb 2024 May 2025 Sep 2025

Inspection Report

Complaint Investigation
Census: 168 Capacity: 175 Deficiencies: 0 Date: Sep 17, 2025

Visit Reason
The inspection visit was conducted as a complaint investigation related to Complaint Investigations #2599442.

Complaint Details
Complaint Investigations #2599442 was the basis for the visit; no violations were substantiated.
Findings
No violations of the General Statutes of Connecticut and/or regulations of Connecticut State Agencies were identified at the time of this inspection.

Employees mentioned
NameTitleContext
Chaim ScherAdministratorPersonnel contacted during the inspection.
Tanya HopkinsDirector of NursingPersonnel contacted during the inspection.
Deborah SmithRN, NCReport submitted by.

Inspection Report

Complaint Investigation
Census: 169 Capacity: 175 Deficiencies: 0 Date: May 9, 2025

Visit Reason
The inspection visit was conducted as a complaint investigation related to Complaint Investigations #41412 and #44118.

Complaint Details
The visit was complaint-related, investigating Complaint Investigations #41412 and #44118. No violations were substantiated.
Findings
No violations of the General Statutes of Connecticut and/or regulations of Connecticut State Agencies were identified at the time of this inspection.

Employees mentioned
NameTitleContext
Chaim ScherAdministratorPersonnel contacted during the inspection
Tanya HopkinsDONPersonnel contacted during the inspection

Inspection Report

Complaint Investigation
Census: 161 Capacity: 175 Deficiencies: 0 Date: Jan 31, 2025

Visit Reason
The inspection visit was conducted as a complaint investigation identified by Complaint Investigation #42608.

Complaint Details
Complaint Investigation #42608 was the basis for the visit. The complaint was not substantiated as no violations were found.
Findings
No violations of the General Statutes of Connecticut and/or regulations of Connecticut State Agencies were identified at the time of this inspection.

Employees mentioned
NameTitleContext
Michelle MorrisonRegional NursePersonnel contacted during the inspection.
Connie VumbackRNReport submitted by.

Inspection Report

Renewal
Census: 160 Capacity: 174 Deficiencies: 0 Date: Jul 29, 2024

Visit Reason
The inspection was conducted as a licensing renewal inspection and included review of complaint investigations numbered 31416, 33711, 34813, and 37961.

Complaint Details
Complaint investigations referenced by numbers 31416, 33711, 34813, and 37961 were reviewed during the inspection.
Findings
Violations of the General Statutes of Connecticut and/or regulations of Connecticut State Agencies were identified at the time of this inspection.

Report Facts
Licensed Bed Capacity: 174 Census: 160

Inspection Report

Routine
Deficiencies: 12 Date: Jul 25, 2024

Visit Reason
Routine inspection of Autumn Lake Healthcare at Cromwell to assess compliance with healthcare regulations including resident rights, environment, medication management, food service, infection control, and staffing.

Findings
The facility had multiple deficiencies including failure to address resident food committee concerns, environmental maintenance issues, failure to report resident-to-resident mistreatment to appropriate agencies, incomplete PASRR Level II referrals, delayed incontinent care, inadequate fluid intake monitoring, medication administration errors, improper medication storage, food temperature and sanitation issues, incomplete PBJ staffing data submission, and lapses in infection control during wound care and laundry cleanliness.

Deficiencies (12)
F 0565: The facility failed to act on Food Committee concerns as resident requests were not documented or addressed in food service.
F 0584: The facility failed to maintain residents' rooms and furnishings in a clean, safe, homelike, and sanitary manner with multiple maintenance issues observed across units.
F 0609: The facility failed to timely report allegations of resident-to-resident mistreatment to Adult Protective Services as required.
F 0644: The facility failed to refer Resident #98 for a PASRR Level II evaluation after a new psychiatric diagnosis was identified.
F 0677: The facility failed to provide timely incontinent care to a dependent resident, with care delayed approximately 4 hours beyond expected intervals.
F 0692: The facility failed to systematically assess and document daily fluid intake for residents on fluid restrictions, risking dehydration.
F 0757: The facility failed to follow physician orders for medication administration including failure to take blood pressure before Atenolol and incorrect Vitamin D3 dosing.
F 0761: The facility failed to date multi-dose medication vials upon opening and failed to discard expired medications timely.
F 0804: The facility failed to ensure food was palatable, attractive, and served at safe temperatures; meatloaf and cheesecake temperatures were below palatable standards.
F 0812: The facility failed to ensure food items were properly dated, stored, and served under sanitary conditions with multiple sanitation issues in kitchen and storage areas.
F 0851: The facility failed to submit Payroll Based Journal (PBJ) staffing data for the third quarter of 2023 as required by CMS.
F 0880: The facility failed to maintain proper infection control during wound care for a resident on Enhanced Barrier Precautions and failed to maintain a clean laundry environment.
Report Facts
Missed blood pressure readings: 340 Fluid restriction: 1200 Medication doses administered twice monthly: 2 Medication doses held: 4 Temperature of meatloaf: 120.4 Temperature of cheesecake: 77.7 Open multi-dose vial date exceeded: 66 Open multi-dose vial date exceeded: 7 Laundry cleaning schedule: 2

Employees mentioned
NameTitleContext
LPN #6Licensed Practical NurseFailed to wear gown during wound care for Resident #77 on Enhanced Barrier Precautions
LPN #4Licensed Practical NurseFailed to take blood pressure before administering Atenolol to Resident #25
LPN #10Licensed Practical NurseAdministered Procrit despite hemoglobin above threshold for Resident #107
APRN #1Advanced Practice Registered NurseWrote incorrect Vitamin D3 order resulting in twice monthly dosing for Resident #107
NA #5Nursing AssistantReported resident-to-resident mistreatment between Residents #80 and #140
Director of Nursing ServicesDNSFailed to notify Adult Protective Services of resident-to-resident mistreatment
Dietary ManagerFailed to respond to Food Committee concerns and identified food temperature issues
Regional Environmental Services ManagerObserved unclean laundry room conditions
Environmental Services DirectorObserved unclean laundry room conditions and open window in dryer room

Inspection Report

Complaint Investigation
Deficiencies: 2 Date: Jul 25, 2024

Visit Reason
The inspection was conducted to investigate allegations of resident-to-resident mistreatment and failure to report suspected abuse, neglect, or theft to proper authorities, as well as to assess care related to incontinence for a dependent resident.

Complaint Details
The investigation was triggered by complaints of resident-to-resident mistreatment involving physical altercations and inappropriate touching. The facility did not notify Adult Protective Services for these incidents and failed to report some allegations to the state survey agency. The complaint was substantiated with findings of failure to report and inadequate response.
Findings
The facility failed to timely report allegations of resident-to-resident mistreatment to Adult Protective Services and the state survey agency. Multiple incidents involving physical altercations and inappropriate touching among residents with cognitive impairments were documented. Additionally, the facility failed to provide timely incontinent care to a dependent resident, with observations showing delays beyond the expected care intervals.

Deficiencies (2)
F 0609: The facility failed to timely report suspected abuse, neglect, or theft and report the results of the investigation to proper authorities. Multiple resident-to-resident altercations were not reported to Adult Protective Services as required.
F 0677: The facility failed to provide timely incontinent care to a dependent resident, with care observed approximately 4 hours after the previous care instead of every 2 hours as planned.
Report Facts
Reportable Event dates: 4 Observation duration: 159 Incontinent care interval: 4

Employees mentioned
NameTitleContext
LPN #1Licensed Practical NurseReported allegation of mistreatment between Resident #80 and Resident #140 and participated in investigation.
LPN #3Licensed Practical NurseProvided information about incontinent care schedules and observations for Resident #103.
NA #2Nursing AssistantResponsible for providing incontinent care to Resident #103 and admitted last care was 4 hours prior to observation.
Director of Nursing ServicesDirector of Nursing ServicesInterviewed regarding failure to notify Adult Protective Services and state agency about resident-to-resident altercations and mistreatment.
AdministratorFacility AdministratorInterviewed about failure to report allegations of mistreatment to the State Agency.
RN #3Clinical Regional DirectorInterviewed about failure to notify the state agency of mistreatment allegations.

Inspection Report

Complaint Investigation
Census: 163 Capacity: 175 Deficiencies: 0 Date: Feb 20, 2024

Visit Reason
The inspection visit was conducted as a complaint investigation identified by complaint number #37377.

Complaint Details
Complaint investigation #37377 was conducted and found no violations; the complaint was not substantiated.
Findings
No violations of the General Statutes of Connecticut and/or the regulations of Connecticut State Agencies were identified at the time of this inspection.

Employees mentioned
NameTitleContext
Chaim ScherAdministratorPersonnel contacted during the inspection.
Tanya HopkinsDNSPersonnel contacted during the inspection.
Monika AhlersADONPersonnel contacted during the inspection.
Deborah SmithRN, NCReport submitted by.

Inspection Report

Complaint Investigation
Census: 159 Capacity: 175 Deficiencies: 0 Date: Jan 25, 2024

Visit Reason
The inspection visit was conducted as a complaint investigation related to Complaint Investigation #37061.

Complaint Details
Complaint Investigation #37061 was the basis for the visit. Violations were not identified at the time of this inspection.
Findings
No violations of the General Statutes of Connecticut and/or regulations of Connecticut State Agencies were identified at the time of this inspection.

Employees mentioned
NameTitleContext
Chaim ScherAdministratorPersonnel contacted during the inspection.
Tanya HopkinsDNSPersonnel contacted during the inspection.
Monika AhlersADONPersonnel contacted during the inspection.
Deborah SmithRN, NCSignature of FLIS Staff and report submitter.

Inspection Report

Routine
Deficiencies: 2 Date: Mar 30, 2023

Visit Reason
The inspection was conducted to review compliance with care planning and clinical management for residents, including neglect concerns and dialysis care.

Findings
The facility failed to develop and implement a comprehensive care plan addressing a resident's refusal of care and failed to ensure medication review and dialysis communication documentation for a resident receiving dialysis.

Deficiencies (2)
F 0656: The facility failed to develop and implement a comprehensive care plan to address Resident #1's refusal of care, including refusals to turn and reposition, despite documented refusals and need for assistance every two hours.
F 0698: The facility failed to ensure medication prescribed prior to hospital transfer was reviewed upon readmission for Resident #4 and failed to maintain a dialysis communication documentation log.
Report Facts
Residents affected: 3 Frequency of refusal: 2 Dialysis frequency: 3 Potassium level: 6.4 Medication dosage: 8.4

Employees mentioned
NameTitleContext
RN #1Corporate RNIdentified lack of care plan addressing refusals for Resident #1
RN #2Registered NurseInterviewed regarding medication review and readmission for Resident #4
APRN #1Advanced Practice Registered NurseVerified and ordered medications for Resident #4 upon readmission
NA #1Nursing AssistantReported Resident #1's refusals of turning and repositioning
Rehabilitation DirectorInterviewed about Resident #1's refusal of care and mobility
MDS CoordinatorResponsible for reviewing and updating Resident #1's care plan
Assistant Director of NursesADNSInterviewed about care plan documentation for Resident #1

Inspection Report

Complaint Investigation
Census: 162 Capacity: 175 Deficiencies: 0 Date: Dec 27, 2022

Visit Reason
The inspection visit was conducted as a complaint investigation related to Complaint Investigation # CT 00033230.

Complaint Details
Complaint Investigation # CT 00033230 was reviewed and no violations were substantiated.
Findings
No violations of the General Statutes of Connecticut and/or regulations of Connecticut State Agencies were identified at the time of this inspection.

Report Facts
Licensed Bed/Bassinet Capacity: 175 Census: 162

Employees mentioned
NameTitleContext
Chaim ScherAdministratorPersonnel contacted during inspection
Tanya HopkinsDNSPersonnel contacted during inspection

Inspection Report

Renewal
Census: 132 Capacity: 175 Deficiencies: 0 Date: Apr 15, 2022

Visit Reason
The inspection was conducted as a renewal licensing inspection for the facility.

Findings
The report indicates that this was a renewal inspection with no explicit violations or deficiencies noted in the provided page.

Employees mentioned
NameTitleContext
Chaim ScherAdministratorPersonnel contacted during the inspection.
Tonya HopkinsDNSPersonnel contacted during the inspection.

Inspection Report

Renewal
Census: 132 Capacity: 175 Deficiencies: 0 Date: Apr 8, 2022

Visit Reason
The inspection was conducted as a renewal licensure inspection for the facility.

Findings
No violations or citations were indicated on the report. The document does not specify any deficiencies or violations found during the inspection.

Employees mentioned
NameTitleContext
Tonya HopkinsDNSPersonnel contacted during the inspection.
Chaim ScherAdministratorPersonnel contacted during the inspection.

Inspection Report

Renewal
Census: 132 Capacity: 175 Deficiencies: 0 Date: Apr 8, 2022

Visit Reason
The inspection was conducted as a renewal licensing inspection for the facility.

Findings
No specific violations or deficiencies are indicated on the form. The report appears to document the completion of the renewal inspection process.

Employees mentioned
NameTitleContext
Chain ScherAdministratorPersonnel contacted during the inspection
Tonya HopkinsDNSPersonnel contacted during the inspection

Inspection Report

Routine
Deficiencies: 10 Date: Apr 8, 2022

Visit Reason
Routine state inspection survey conducted to assess compliance with regulatory requirements for nursing home care and facility operations.

Findings
The facility was found deficient in multiple areas including failure to promote resident self-determination, improper management of resident personal funds, maintenance and cleanliness issues, failure to protect residents from abuse, inaccurate resident assessments, failure to revise care plans timely, improper disposal of sharps, inadequate personal hygiene care for dependent residents, and untimely physician order signatures. Infection control practices were also deficient, including improper lancet disposal and incomplete employee COVID-19 surveillance.

Deficiencies (10)
F 0561: The facility failed to assist Resident #82 with pursuing interests and choices, including getting out of bed and attending social activities despite having a specialized recliner available but improperly stored.
F 0568: The facility failed to provide timely quarterly financial statements to Resident #17 and other residents regarding their personal funds in the Resident Trust Account.
F 0584: The facility failed to maintain rooms and bathrooms in good repair, including rust, damage to walls and floors, leaking sinks, and fungal growth on faucets, and failed to clean malodorous stains promptly.
F 0600: The facility failed to protect Resident #7 from being slapped by Resident #55 during a resident-to-resident altercation.
F 0641: The facility failed to ensure accurate coding of residents' cognitive and mood status on Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessments, including inappropriate use of no information codes (dashes) and failure to complete assessments timely.
F 0657: The facility failed to review and revise the care plan for Resident #59 to reflect discontinuation of Hospice services and failed to have a system to invite residents and families to care plan meetings.
F 0658: The facility failed to properly dispose of a lancet after blood glucose testing by discarding it in the trash instead of a sharps container.
F 0677: The facility failed to provide adequate personal hygiene care, including fingernail trimming and shaving, for dependent residents #29, #70, #83, and #101 despite care plans indicating need for assistance.
F 0711: The facility failed to ensure physician orders for Resident #76 were signed and dated timely, with multiple months of orders unsigned.
F 0880: The facility failed to maintain an employee COVID-19 positive line list with required details such as symptom onset, resolution, and return to work dates.
Report Facts
Date of survey completion: Apr 8, 2022 Physician order signature dates: Dec 22, 2021 COVID-19 positive staff tracking period: 50

Employees mentioned
NameTitleContext
NA #3Nursing AssistantWitnessed resident-to-resident altercation involving Resident #7 and Resident #55
NA #2Nursing AssistantWitnessed resident-to-resident altercation involving Resident #7 and Resident #55
LPN #1Licensed Practical NurseObserved improper disposal of lancet and failure to perform hand hygiene
AdministratorInterviewed regarding multiple deficiencies including resident care plan invitations and physician order signatures
Director of Nursing Services (DNS)Interviewed regarding physician order signatures and infection control practices
Infection PreventionistInterviewed regarding lancet disposal and hand hygiene
Regional MDS Coordinator/RN #3Registered NurseInterviewed regarding MDS assessment inaccuracies and care plan revisions
Social Worker #1Social WorkerInterviewed regarding MDS completion and care plan meeting invitations
MD #1PhysicianInterviewed regarding physician order signatures for Resident #76

Inspection Report

Plan of Correction
Census: 109 Capacity: 175 Deficiencies: 7 Date: Oct 29, 2020

Visit Reason
Unannounced visits were made to Autumn Lake Healthcare At Cromwell to conduct multiple investigations and an inspection related to complaints and COVID-19 infection control.

Complaint Details
Complaint numbers CT28504, CT28572, CT28723 were investigated. The allegations included falls, pressure ulcers, abuse, weight loss, medical record inaccuracies, infection control deficiencies, and COVID-19 outbreak testing failures. Some allegations were not substantiated as noted in the investigation.
Findings
The facility was found noncompliant with multiple regulations including fall risk management, pressure ulcer care, resident safety, weight loss monitoring, medical record accuracy, infection control practices, and COVID-19 outbreak testing. Several deficiencies were identified related to delayed interventions, incomplete documentation, unsafe environment, and inadequate infection control measures.

Deficiencies (7)
Failure to implement timely interventions after a resident fall and inadequate monitoring.
Failure to ensure pressure relieving devices were placed timely and pressure ulcers were properly measured and documented.
Failure to maintain a safe resident environment, including unsecured staff breakroom and unsafe hot coffee pot.
Failure to monitor and document resident fluid status and weight loss accurately and completely.
Failure to ensure medical records were accurate and complete, including weight documentation and change in condition notifications.
Failure to implement appropriate infection control practices, including improper mask use and failure to follow CDC guidance.
Failure to ensure weekly COVID-19 testing was conducted after outbreak identification.
Report Facts
Licensed Bed Capacity: 175 Census: 109 Completion Date: Dec 7, 2020 Weight Loss: 5.6 Weight Loss Percentage: 13 Pressure Ulcer Measurement: 3 Pressure Ulcer Depth: 0.1 Pressure Ulcer Depth: 0.7 Pressure Ulcer Length: 1 Pressure Ulcer Width: 1 Fluid Intake: 800 Weight: 176.8 Weight: 171.2 Weight: 156.4 Temperature: 102 Coffee Pot Temperature: 160

Employees mentioned
NameTitleContext
Cher MichaudSupervising Nurse ConsultantNamed in complaint investigation and correspondence
Ana McBratDirector of Nursing (DNS)Interviewed regarding fall and pressure ulcer findings
Lisa WallesInfection Control Nurse (ICN)Interviewed regarding COVID-19 outbreak testing and infection control
Sandra Vermont-HollisSupervising Nurse ConsultantSigned notice of noncompliance letter

Inspection Report

Complaint Investigation
Deficiencies: 6 Date: Oct 29, 2020

Visit Reason
Unannounced visits were made to Autumn Lake Healthcare At Cromwell on October 29, 2020, by a representative of the Facility Licensing and Investigations Section of the Department of Public Health for the purpose of conducting multiple investigations and an inspection related to complaints.

Complaint Details
The visit was complaint-related with complaints #CT28504, CT28572, CT28723. The investigation included review of incidents involving falls, pressure ulcers, abuse allegations, weight loss, infection control, and COVID-19 outbreak testing.
Findings
The facility was found deficient in multiple areas including failure to prevent falls, timely pressure ulcer care, ensuring a safe environment free from abuse, monitoring resident fluid status, maintaining accurate medical records, implementing infection control practices, and conducting weekly COVID-19 testing after an outbreak was identified.

Deficiencies (6)
Failure to implement timely interventions after a resident fall and inadequate monitoring post-fall.
Failure to ensure pressure relieving devices were placed timely and pressure ulcers were properly measured and documented.
Failure to ensure the resident environment was free from safety hazards related to staff breakroom access and maintenance of coffee pot safety.
Failure to monitor and document resident fluid status adequately, leading to poor fluid intake monitoring.
Failure to maintain accurate and complete medical records including weight documentation and change in condition notifications.
Failure to implement appropriate infection control practices including mask wearing and COVID-19 testing protocols.
Report Facts
Completion Date for Plan of Correction: Dec 7, 2020 Weight loss percentage: 13 Pressure ulcer blister measurement: 3 Weight loss in pounds: 5.6 Temperature: 102 Coffee pot temperature: 160

Employees mentioned
NameTitleContext
Cher MichaudSupervising Nurse ConsultantSigned the notice letter and involved in the Facility Licensing and Investigations Section.
Director of NursesInterviewed multiple times regarding findings related to falls, pressure ulcers, weight loss, and infection control.
Advanced Practice Registered NurseConducted assessments and gave orders related to pressure ulcers and weight loss.
Licensed Practical Nurse #1Interviewed regarding resident abuse incident and staff breakroom access.
Maintenance DirectorInterviewed regarding safety check of coffee pot in staff breakroom.
Infection Control NurseInterviewed regarding infection control practices and COVID-19 testing.
Dietary Aide #1Observed with mask hanging off ear and interviewed about mask use in kitchen.
Therapeutic Recreation DirectorInterviewed regarding mask use during activity.
Nurse Aide #1Observed speaking to unmasked resident and interviewed about mask use.
Employee #1Had a temperature of 102 degrees and tested positive for COVID-19.

Inspection Report

Complaint Investigation
Census: 118 Capacity: 175 Deficiencies: 2 Date: Oct 2, 2020

Visit Reason
A COVID-19 Focused Survey and complaint investigation were conducted to determine compliance with 42 CFR Part 483 Requirements for Long Term Care Facilities, including infection prevention and control practices to prevent COVID-19 transmission.

Complaint Details
The visit was complaint-related, triggered by concerns about infection control and medical record accuracy. The complaint was substantiated as deficiencies were identified.
Findings
The facility was found deficient in maintaining accurate and complete medical records for one resident, failing to notify the responsible party of medication changes, and improper documentation of diet orders. Additionally, a staff member failed to wear a surgical mask properly while providing care, posing an infection control risk.

Deficiencies (2)
Failure to ensure medical record was accurate and complete for Resident #1, including lack of notification to responsible party about medication changes and incomplete documentation of events prior to resident's death.
Failure to maintain proper infection prevention and control practices by not wearing a surgical mask at all times while providing care to Resident #2.
Report Facts
Medication administrations: 7 Facility capacity: 175 Resident census: 118 Mask falls: 6

Employees mentioned
NameTitleContext
Licensed Practical Nurse #2LPNNamed in medication notification deficiency for Resident #1.
Licensed Practical Nurse #1LPNCharge nurse on duty when Resident #1 passed away; involved in documentation deficiency.
Nurse Aide #1NAFailed to wear surgical mask properly while providing care to Resident #2.
Director of NursesDNSProvided statements regarding documentation and infection control deficiencies.
Assistant Director of NursesADNSObserved mask non-compliance and directed corrective action.

Inspection Report

Abbreviated Survey
Census: 105 Capacity: 175 Deficiencies: 0 Date: May 24, 2020

Visit Reason
A COVID-19 Focused Infection Control Survey was conducted to determine compliance with 42 CFR §483.80 Infection Control regulations for Long Term Care Facilities.

Findings
The facility implemented CMS and CDC recommended practices related to COVID-19. No deficiencies were cited as a result of this survey.

Report Facts
Capacity: 175 Census: 105

Inspection Report

Complaint Investigation
Deficiencies: 0 Date: May 6, 2020

Visit Reason
A COVID-19 Focused Survey and a complaint investigation were conducted to determine compliance with 42 CFR Part 483 Requirements for Long Term Care Facilities, including proper infection prevention and control practices to prevent the development and transmission of COVID-19.

Complaint Details
The visit was complaint-related and included a COVID-19 focused survey; no deficiencies were found.
Findings
No deficiencies were cited as a result of this survey.

Inspection Report

Monitoring
Deficiencies: 6 Date: Apr 28, 2020

Visit Reason
An unannounced visit was conducted on April 28, 2020, by a representative of the Facility Licensing and Investigations Section of the Department of Public Health to investigate and monitor COVID-19 infection control practices at Autumn Lake Healthcare At Cromwell.

Findings
The facility failed to ensure acceptable infection control practices, including improper use and storage of N95 masks, failure to provide masks to residents, lack of door closures on rooms with COVID-19 positive residents, and inadequate social distancing measures. Several observations and interviews identified multiple infection control deficiencies related to mask usage, resident placement, and gown and face shield handling.

Deficiencies (6)
Director of Nurses donned an N95 mask on top of a surgical mask.
Residents on contact precautions were exposed without masks and doors were not closed as recommended.
Staff members wore surgical masks under N95 masks; one staff member identified as CNA.
Facility failed to provide masks to residents on the secured unit and did not enforce social distancing.
Face masks were stored improperly on gowns causing contamination risk.
Facility did not store gowns and face shields according to CDC guidance and did not don N95 masks or post information as per CDC guidelines.
Report Facts
Date of visit: Apr 28, 2020 Number of residents observed without masks: 6 Number of residents in contact precautions: 2 Number of staff members observed wearing surgical masks under N95 masks: 4 Number of additional residents' rooms with contact precautions and doors not closed: 3

Employees mentioned
NameTitleContext
Sandra Vermont-HollisSupervising Nurse ConsultantSigned letter as Supervising Nurse Consultant for Facility Licensing and Investigations Section
Jessica GarciaAdministratorAdministrator of Autumn Lake Healthcare At Cromwell addressed in the letter

Inspection Report

Abbreviated Survey
Deficiencies: 5 Date: Apr 28, 2020

Visit Reason
A COVID-19 Focused Survey was conducted to determine compliance with 42 CFR Part 483 Requirements for Long Term Care Facilities, including proper infection prevention and control practices to prevent the development and transmission of COVID-19.

Findings
The facility failed to ensure acceptable infection control practices including improper donning of N95 masks, inadequate masking and social distancing among residents, improper storage and reuse of gowns and face shields, and failure to follow CDC guidance on infection prevention measures.

Deficiencies (5)
Acting Director of Nurses donned an N95 mask on top of a surgical mask, contrary to CDC guidance.
Residents on contact precautions were not properly masked or isolated; curtains were not fully drawn and residents ambulated without masks.
Staff wore surgical masks under N95 masks, and signage posted did not comply with infection control standards.
Residents on the secured dementia unit were not offered masks and did not maintain social distancing.
Gowns and face shields on the COVID unit were improperly stored, causing contamination and cross contamination risks.
Report Facts
Date of survey: Apr 28, 2020 Number of gowns observed: 6 Audit frequency: 4

Employees mentioned
NameTitleContext
Acting Director of NursesDonning N95 mask improperly
LPN #1Licensed Practical NurseDid not offer masks to dementia unit residents
LPN #2Licensed Practical NurseDescribed gown and face shield storage and use
Infection PreventionistIdentified contamination risks with gown and face shield storage and improper masking
DNSDirector of Nursing ServicesInterviewed about resident masking and social distancing

Inspection Report

Abbreviated Survey
Deficiencies: 0 Date: Apr 21, 2020

Visit Reason
A COVID-19 Focused Survey was conducted to determine compliance with 42 CFR Part 483 Requirements for Long Term Care Facilities, including proper infection prevention and control practices to prevent the development and transmission of COVID-19.

Findings
No deficiencies were cited as a result of this COVID-19 focused survey.

Inspection Report

Complaint Investigation
Census: 130 Capacity: 175 Deficiencies: 7 Date: Jul 25, 2019

Visit Reason
The inspection was conducted as a complaint investigation triggered by Complaint Investigation #25285 to assess violations of Connecticut General Statutes and regulations.

Complaint Details
Complaint Investigation #25285 was substantiated with violations identified related to resident transfer communication and care deficiencies.
Findings
The facility was found to have violations related to failure in ensuring complete hospital information during urgent resident transfers, inadequate communication with hospitals, and deficiencies in resident care and safety measures. A plan of correction was required to address these issues.

Deficiencies (7)
Failure to ensure hospital received complete information when resident was urgently transferred.
Facility failed to maintain a clean, well-maintained, and homelike environment on the 2nd floor Maple unit.
Facility failed to maintain the dietary/kitchen area in a sanitary manner.
Facility failed to ensure a water management plan was in place to reduce Legionella risk.
Facility failed to ensure skilled competencies for nurse aides regarding intravenous therapy.
Facility failed to ensure care was rendered to ensure privacy for residents.
Facility failed to maintain the kitchen/dietary area free from rodents.
Report Facts
Licensed Bed Capacity: 175 Census: 130 Complaint Number: 25285 Plan of Correction Submission Deadline: Aug 15, 2019

Employees mentioned
NameTitleContext
Chaim ScheerAdministratorNamed in relation to findings about resident transfer communication.
Gina Jones-BlueDirector of Nursing (DON)Named in relation to findings about resident transfer communication.
Heidi CaronSupervising Nurse ConsultantSigned complaint investigation letter.
Jessica GarciaAdministratorNamed in follow-up complaint investigation and related correspondence.
Judy BirtwistleSupervising Nurse ConsultantSigned follow-up complaint investigation letter.
Kafaytou AfolabiDirector of Nursing Services (DNS)Named in relation to inspection findings and interviews.

Inspection Report

Plan of Correction
Deficiencies: 1 Date: Jul 25, 2019

Visit Reason
An unannounced visit was conducted at Autumn Lake Healthcare At Cromwell on July 25, 2019, by a representative of the Facility Licensing and Investigations Section of the Department of Public Health for the purpose of conducting an investigation with additional information received through July 25, 2019.

Complaint Details
Complaint #25785 triggered the investigation.
Findings
The facility failed to ensure that the hospital received complete and resident-specific hospital information when a resident was urgently transferred. Documentation and interviews revealed incomplete transfer information and lack of communication with the receiving hospital.

Deficiencies (1)
Failure to ensure hospital received complete hospital information when resident was urgently transferred, including lack of resident-specific details and failure to notify hospital appropriately.
Report Facts
Complaint number: 25785 Date of visit: Jul 25, 2019

Employees mentioned
NameTitleContext
Heidi CaronSupervising Nurse ConsultantSigned letter regarding plan of correction and deficiencies
Jessica GarciaFacility representative addressed in the letter

Inspection Report

Plan of Correction
Deficiencies: 1 Date: Jun 20, 2019

Visit Reason
An unannounced visit was made to Autumn Lake Healthcare At Cromwell on June 20, 2019 by a representative of the Facility Licensing and Investigations Section of the Department of Public Health for the purpose of conducting an investigation and a certification survey.

Complaint Details
Complaint #25578 was investigated. The complaint involved failure to timely report and classify an attempted suicide of Resident #1. The violation was substantiated as a Class A occurrence.
Findings
The facility was found to have a violation related to failure to ensure an attempted suicide was reported to the State Agency within mandated time frames and/or appropriately identified/classified as a Class A occurrence. The violation involved Resident #1 and included deficiencies in documentation and reporting.

Deficiencies (1)
Failure to ensure an attempted suicide was reported to the State Agency within mandated time frames and/or appropriately identified/classified as a Class A occurrence.
Report Facts
Complaint number: 25578 Dates related to Resident #1: Admission date 2019-04-10, PASRR dated 2019-03-27, MDS assessment dated 2019-04-14, Social Service note dated 2019-04-16 Plan of Correction completion date: July 11, 2019

Employees mentioned
NameTitleContext
Judith BirtwistleSupervising Nurse ConsultantSigned letter regarding complaint investigation and plan of correction

Inspection Report

Annual Inspection
Deficiencies: 4 Date: Jan 22, 2019

Visit Reason
Unannounced visits were made to the facility on 1/15/19, 1/16/19, 1/17/19 and 1/22/19 by representatives of the Facility Licensing & Investigations Section for the purpose of a certification survey, licensure inspection, and an investigation.

Findings
The facility was found to have multiple deficiencies including failure to maintain a safe, clean, comfortable, and homelike environment; unsanitary food procurement, storage, preparation and serving areas; improper disposal of garbage and refuse; and lack of a comprehensive water management plan to reduce Legionella risk. Numerous physical environment issues such as water stains, damaged fixtures, and unsanitary conditions in the kitchen and dumpster area were observed.

Deficiencies (4)
Facility failed to maintain a clean, well-maintained and homelike environment with issues such as water stains, damaged bathroom fixtures, exposed sharp edges, and unsanitary resident nourishment room.
Facility failed to maintain the dietary/kitchen area in a sanitary manner including uncovered food bins with debris, rodent droppings, open food containers, soiled equipment, and rodent sightings.
Facility failed to properly dispose of garbage and refuse, with garbage debris and used gloves found around the exterior dumpster area.
Facility failed to establish and maintain an infection prevention and control program including lack of a comprehensive water management plan to reduce Legionella risk.
Report Facts
Dates of unannounced visits: 1/15/19, 1/16/19, 1/17/19, 1/22/19 Weight of sugar bin: 40 Weight of flour bin: 25 Number of resident serving trays damaged: 100 Number of mouse traps observed: 6 Weight of thawing chicken: 20 Number of pocket books/handbags stored in nourishment room: 3 Number of lunch containers stored in nourishment room: 2 Number of soda cans stored in nourishment room: 0

Employees mentioned
NameTitleContext
Food Service Director (FSD)Interviewed regarding kitchen sanitation deficiencies and food safety
Registered Nurse #1, Infection Control Nurse (ICN)Interviewed regarding use of nourishment room as staff break room and infection control concerns
AdministratorInterviewed regarding facility remodeling and water management plan deficiencies
Maintenance DirectorInterviewed regarding facility maintenance issues and water management plan deficiencies

Inspection Report

Plan of Correction
Deficiencies: 8 Date: Jan 15, 2019

Visit Reason
Unannounced visits were made to Autumn Lake Healthcare At Cromwell on January 15, 16, 17 and 22, 2019 by representatives of the Facility Licensing and Investigations Section of the Department of Public Health for the purpose of conducting an investigation, a licensure and a certification inspection.

Complaint Details
Complaint #23754 triggered the investigation and inspection.
Findings
The facility was found to have multiple violations including failure to maintain a clean, well-maintained, and homelike environment; unsanitary dietary/kitchen areas; failure to maintain the exterior dumpster area in a clean and sanitary manner; lack of a comprehensive water management plan to reduce Legionella risk; and failure to ensure skilled competencies for nurse aides regarding intravenous therapy. The facility submitted a plan of correction addressing these deficiencies.

Deficiencies (8)
Facility failed to maintain a clean, well-maintained and homelike environment with multiple damaged areas and water stains in resident rooms and common areas.
Dietary/kitchen area was not maintained in a sanitary manner with uncovered food bins, mouse/rodent droppings, and soiled surfaces.
Exterior dumpster area was not maintained in a clean and sanitary manner with garbage debris and used exam gloves strewn about.
Facility failed to ensure a water management plan was in place to reduce Legionella risk as required by regulations.
Facility failed to ensure skilled competencies were completed for nurse aides regarding intravenous therapy.
Facility failed to ensure care was rendered to ensure privacy for a resident during blood pressure monitoring.
Facility failed to maintain kitchen/dietary area free from rodents with excessive mouse traps and rodent droppings observed.
Facility failed to maintain a plan of care for pressure ulcer prevention for a resident at high risk.
Report Facts
Weight of storage bins: 40 Weight of storage bins: 25 Mouse traps observed: 6 Thawing chicken weight: 20 Pest control service visits: 17 Nurse aides competency validated: 14 Plan of correction monitoring period: 90

Employees mentioned
NameTitleContext
Connie GreeneSupervising Nurse ConsultantSigned the plan of correction letter and is the contact for questions regarding deficiencies.
Jessica GarciaAdministratorAdministrator of Autumn Lake Healthcare At Cromwell, involved in tours and interviews during inspection.
Registered Nurse #1Infection Control NurseInterviewed regarding infection control practices and unaware of staff using resident nourishment room as break room.
Food Service Director #1Food Service DirectorInterviewed regarding kitchen sanitation and food storage deficiencies.
Maintenance DirectorInterviewed regarding facility maintenance issues including bathtub water turned off and facility remodeling.
Registered Nurse #1Interviewed regarding incident of privacy violation and intravenous therapy education.
Nurse Aide #1Involved in privacy violation incident and education regarding intravenous therapy.
Nurse Aide #2Involved in privacy violation incident and education regarding intravenous therapy.
Licensed Practical Nurse #1Interviewed regarding care of resident with pressure ulcers.
AdministratorInterviewed multiple times regarding facility conditions, remodeling, and infection control.

Inspection Report

Routine
Deficiencies: 4 Date: Jan 15, 2019

Visit Reason
The inspection was conducted to assess compliance with health and safety regulations, including environmental conditions, food safety, infection control, and waste disposal at Autumn Lake Healthcare at Cromwell.

Findings
The facility was found to have multiple deficiencies including poor maintenance of resident areas with water stains and damaged fixtures, unsanitary kitchen conditions with rodent droppings and food contamination risks, improper garbage disposal around the dumpster area, and lack of a comprehensive water management plan to prevent Legionella risk.

Deficiencies (4)
F 0584: The facility failed to maintain a clean, well-maintained, and homelike environment with water stains, damaged bathroom fixtures, exposed wiring, and unsafe floor conditions in multiple resident rooms on the 2nd floor Maple unit.
F 0812: The dietary/kitchen area was unsanitary with uncovered food bins containing debris, rodent droppings on the floor, open garbage cans, undated open food containers, soiled equipment, and presence of rodents observed during the tray line service.
F 0814: The exterior dumpster area was not maintained in a clean and sanitary manner, with garbage debris and 13 pairs of used exam gloves found scattered around the area.
F 0880: The facility failed to provide and implement a water management plan to reduce Legionella risk, lacking documentation of process flow diagrams, control measures, and training for the Water Management Committee.
Report Facts
Weight of sugar bin: 40 Weight of flour bin: 25 Number of resident serving trays damaged: 100 Number of mouse traps: 6 Weight of thawing chicken: 20 Number of pairs of used exam gloves: 13 Chemical concentration in sanitizer bucket: 0

Employees mentioned
NameTitleContext
Food Service Director (FSD) #1Interviewed regarding kitchen sanitation and food safety issues
Corporate Manager #1Present during kitchen tour identifying sanitation deficiencies
Maintenance DirectorInterviewed about facility maintenance issues and bathtub water turned off
AdministratorInterviewed about remodeling plans and water management plan absence
Registered Nurse #1Infection Control Nurse (ICN)Interviewed about use of resident nourishment room as staff break room and infection control concerns

Inspection Report

Renewal
Census: 117 Capacity: 170 Deficiencies: 0 Date: Jan 19, 2018

Visit Reason
The inspection was conducted as a licensing inspection for renewal purposes, including a desk audit on 1/19/18.

Findings
No violations of the General Statutes of Connecticut or regulations were identified at the time of this inspection. The facility was found to be in substantial compliance.

Employees mentioned
NameTitleContext
Jessica GarciaAdministratorPersonnel contacted during the inspection.
Melissa DziobReport submitted by.

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