Petitioner: AGENCY FOR HEALTH CARE ADMINISTRATION
Respondent: H.C. HEALTHCARE, INC., D/B/A TRINITY COMMUNITY HOSPITAL
Judges: BARBARA J. STAROS
Agency: Agency for Health Care Administration
Locations: Lake City, Florida
Filed: Apr. 27, 2009
Status: Closed
Settled and/or Dismissed prior to entry of RO/FO on Tuesday, January 5, 2010.
Latest Update: Sep. 16, 2010
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: STATE OF FLORIDA
AGENCY FOR HEALTH CARE ADMINISTRATION
STATE OF FLORIDA, AGENCY FOR
HEALTH CARE ADMINISTRATION,
Petitioner,
VS. - Case No. 2008009652
H, C, HEALTHCARE, INC.,
d/b/a TRINITY COMMUNITY HOSPITAL,
Respondent.
/
ADMINISTRATIVE COMPLAINT
COMES NOW the Agency For Health Care Administration (hereinafter Agency), by and
through the undersigned counsel, and files this Administrative Complaint against H. C.
HEALTHCARE, INC., d/b/a TRINITY COMMUNITY HOSPITAL (hereinafter Respondent),
pursuant to Section 120.569, and 120.57, Florida Statutes, and alleges:
NATURE OF THE ACTION
This is an action to Revoke the license of H. C. HEALTHCARE, INC., d/b/a TRINITY
COMMUNITY HOSPITAL, pursuant to Section 395.003, Florida Statutes.
JURISDICTION AND VENUE
1, The Agency has jurisdiction pursuant to Section 395, Part 1, Florida Statutes.
2. Venue lies pursuant to Section 120.57 Florida Statutes, and Chapter 28-106.207,
Florida Administrative Code,
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PARTIES
3. The Agency is the regulatory authority with regard to hospital licensing and regulation
pursuant to Chapter 395, Part I, Florida Statutes, and Rule 59A-3, Florida Administrative Code,
respectively.
4, Respondent is a hospital located at 506 NW 4” Street, Jasper, Florida 32052, and is
licensed under Chapter 395, Part I, Florida Statutes and Chapter 59A-3, Florida Administrative
Code, license number 3924.
5. Respondent was at all times maternal hereto a licensed facility under the licensing
authority of the Agency, and was required to comply with all applicable rules and statutes.
COUNT!
6. The Agency re-alleges and incorporates paragraphs (1) through (5) as if fully set forth
herein.
7, That pursuant to 59A4-3.273(1), Florida Administrative Code, each hospital is under the
direction of a.chief executive officer appointed by the governing body, who 13 responsible for the
operation of the hospital in a manner commensurate with the authority conferred by the
governing body.
8. That on August 12, 2008, the Agency performed a survey of Respondent’s facility.
9. Upon review of the record and after interview with staff the Agency was made aware that
the facility failed to appoint a Chief Executive Officer.
10. That the Agency cited the Respondent facility for the above referenced deficiency.
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COUNT
1]. The Agency re-alleges and incorporates paragraphs (1) through (5) as if fully set forth
herein.
12. That pursuant to 39A-3,2085(5) 35, Florida Administrative Code, eachhospital shall
employ a registered nurse on a full time basis who shall have the authority and responsibility for
managing nursing services and taking all reasonable steps to assure that a uniformly optimal
level of nursing care is provided throughout the hospital.
13. That pursuant to 59A-3.2085(5) 5 (b), Florida Administrative Code, the registered nurse
shall be responsible for ensuring that a review and evaluation of the quality and appropnateness
of nursing care is accomplished. The review and evaluation shall be based on written criteria,
shall be performed at least quarterly, and shall examine the provision of nursing care and its
effect on patients.
14, That on or about August 12, 2008, the Agency conducted a survey of the Respondent
facility and made the following findings:
At 1:37 p.m., the survey group was sitting in the conference room when the
power went out. The emergency generator did not go on. A surveyor went:
over to the ER area and observed a Doctor and two murses talking and
standing by the door near ER #1. When asked if there was a patient in the
room, one of the nurses walked toward the area which was dark and said the
patient was ok. The patient in ER# 1’s Chief Complaint was nausea and
vomiting. The patient was alone in the dark. The Surveyor asked the ER
Nurse (Darlene) how many patients were in the ER, she stated “Three
patients, one in ER# 1, one in ER# 2, and one in ER# 3. The Surveyor went to
check on the patient in ER # 2 and found the patient standing by the door
outside the room. When asked if the patient was ok standing, the patient
responded s/he was in pain and would like to sit down. The DON then went to
get a wheelchair for the patient. The patient in ER #2’s Chief Complaint was
bilateral flank pain.
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‘ The Patient from ER# 3 was sitting out in the hallway with intravenous (IV)
fluid to gravity flow. The IV had been running on an electric pump and the
battery was discharged. Chief complaint: Elevated glucose.
At 2:15 p.m. (during a power outage at the facility) a patient arrived walking
into the department. She was complaining of chest pain, shortness of breath
and pains radiating down her arms. She was placed, by an ER nurse, in a chair
in the waiting room. No vital signs were taken, and no history was asked.
2:25 p.m. the patient remained in the waiting room crying. Staff did not return to the
waiting room to obtain history or vital signs.
2:30 p.m. Surveyor intervention — the director of nursing was asked what
was being done. She stated the physician told her to move the patient to a
room and assess her. The power remained out and staff did not have
flashlights. The DON attempted to ambulate the patient and the surveyor
intervened again by getting the physician and requesting him to assess the
patient. The physician was in the lobby assessing and diagnosing another
patient. He accompanied the surveyor to the waiting room where the chest
pain patient remained. The surveyor again instructed the nurse to take vital
signs. Director of nursing was instructed to call 911 (by the surveyor) or told
we would. She voiced concerns of an EMTALA violation lodged by EMS if
she called them. When it was suggested perhaps an aspirin was in order for
this patient (standard of care with chest pain), she stated, “oh no, she took her
medications this morning”, not knowing the chest pain protocol.
2:40 p.m. EMS arrived. Vital signs were requested and DON stated “I never
got them.”
2:43 p-m. EMS leaves with patient on stretcher.
2:55 p.m. Karen (DON) stated “everyone is turning in their keys- Jets all just
go to Billies after work and have some drinks.”
15. The observations of the survey team and interaction. with staff, found that the facility
failed to adhere to current minimal standards
16. That the Agency cited the Respondent facility for the above referenced deficiency.
COUNT IN
17. The Agency re-alleges and incorporates paragraphs (1) through (5) as if fully set forth
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‘herein.
18. That pursuant to 594-3.276, Florida Administrative Code, each hospital shall develop,
implement, and maintain a written preventive maintenance plan, in conjunction with the policies
and procedures developed by the infection control committee, to ensure that the facility is
maintained in accordance with the following:
(a) The interior and exterior of buildings shall be in good repair, free of hazards, and painted
as needed.
P.i2
(b) All patient care equipment shall be maintained in a clean, properly calibrated, and safe —
operating condition;
(c) All plumbing fixtures shall be maintained in good repair to assure proper functioning, and
provided with back flow prevention devices, when required, to prevent contamination from
entering the water supply;
(d) All mechanical and electrical equipment shall be maintained in working order, and shall
be accessible for cleaning and inspection;
(e) Loose, cracked, or peeling wallpaper or paint shall be promptly replaced or repaired to
provide a satisfactory finish;
(f) All furniture and furnishings, including mattresses, pillows, and other bedding; window
coverings; including curtains, blinds, shades, and screens, and cubicle curtains or privacy
screens, shall be maintained in good repair; and
(g) The grounds and buildings shall be maintained in a safe and sanitary condition and kept
free from refuse, litter, and vermin breeding or harborage areas.
19. On or about August 12, 2008, the Agency conducted a survey of the Respondent
facility and made the following findings:
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A tour of the emergency room, beginning with the primary patient care room,
was conducted. This area was messy, with debris on the floor. A hand
washing sink was on the wall with a pink plastic basin under the “nu” bend in
the drainage pipe. Water was leaking into the basin from this pipe. At the back
of the sink where the faucet and handles are, the area was heavily soiled, with
pinkish/rust colored marking that could be removed when a finger was run
across them.
At the back of the room was what appeared to be a storage area for supplies.
This floor was heavily soiled with numerous supplies and discarded containers
on the floor. An over-the-bed table was in this room. On this table was a
coffee pot, in use. The table also contained all the fixings for coffee.
On the counter was a container of 0.9% Sodium Chloride USP that was
opened, undated and among what appeared to be trash. A small plastic
container, intended to have been disposed of, was on the counter with metal
instruments in it. The instruments were a pair of tweezers, scalpel handle,
Trachea plug, pick and bore. |
The room had a faint odor of urine, and appeared messy. The sink was soiled
and leaking water from the U-tube under the sink. A pink plastic basin was
half full of water from the leaking sink. Behind the door was a utility hopper
with yellow stains under the water line. On top of the paper dispenser by the
sink, 2 scissors were observed covered in dust,
The “Pediatric” ER treatment room was observed at approximately 12 p.m.
Upon entering it was observed that an upright standing scale was covered in.
dust and had last been checked on 11/07. A rall of toilet paper was observed
on top of the top cabinet. The air condition vent over the exam table was
observed with heavy dust. The pediatric ambu-bag was observed hanging in a
plastic bag by a biohazard container. The plastic bag was sticky and dirty. The
mouthpiece was wedged in the corner of the bag.
The infant scale was heavily soiled. The cart it rested on was soiled and
rusted. The walls of the room had several large areas where the paint had
chipped off. The linens on the crib did not appear fresh.
The exam table in this room was rusted. A drawer on the side of the table
could not even be opened. The protective covering for the table was in the
form of a paper. The paper was contained on a roll which was on the floor at
the head of the table.
In a cabinet under the sink, signs of leaking were noted. The cabinet contained
additional nebulizers, an unmarked spray bottle with blue liquid, an adult
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ambu- bag and accessories. Behind other articles, at the back of the cabinet a
torn open plastic bag of children’s videos were located.
Observation of ER room revealed that the room appeared to be utilized as a
storage room. It contained three stretchers. Privacy curtains could only
provide coverage for two of the three stretcher areas. Just inside the door, in
the corner, a hole was in the wal]. Pipes were exposed and insulation was
visible and loose. Various equipment, cabinets and wheel chairs are stored in
cubicle #1 inside this room.
20. That based upon mterview and observations, Respondent’s facility failed to maintain
minimum standards at its facility.
21, That the Agency cited the Respondent’s facility for the above referenced deficiency.
COUNT IV
22. The Agency re-alleges and incorporates paragraphs (1) through (5) as if fully set forth
herein.
23. That pursuant to 694-3.012, Florida Administrative Code, except as specifically
modified by statute or by the State Fire Marshal’s rules, the Florida specific edition of NFPA |
101, the Life Safety Code, 2006 edition and the Florida specific edition of NFPA 1, the Uniform
Fire Code 2006 edition, as adopted within Rule Chapter 694-60, F.A.C., entitled the “2007
edition of the Florida Fire Prevention Code,” are hereby adopted and incorporated by reference
and are applicable to those buildings and structures specified in paragraphs (a) and (b) of
subsection (1) of Section 633.022, Florida Statutes.
24. That pursuant to Florida’s Life Safety Code, the facility shall have an electrically
supervised fire alarm, which provides emergency forces notification, is available to warn
occupants, and operate protective systems shall be provided. LSC 9.6. NFPA 101- 2003 LSC.
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25, On or about August 12, 2008, the Agency conducted a survey of the Respondent's
facility and made the following findings:
The Fire Alarm System has no dialer and does not report to a U.L. Central
Station. There 1s a reverse polarity monitor that sends a low volt charge thru
the regular phone line, and turns a light on at the Sheriff's department, who in
turn surnmons the Fire Department that the Hospital fire alarm has activated,
The alarm lacks visual devices to warn the hearing impaired of fire alarm
activation. Patient rooms are not sprinkled and require at least single station
smoke detectors because the corridor protection is inadequate. Corridors do
not have enough smoke detectors (30 ft. apart).
Interview Fire Alarm contractor states that they know the alarm does not even
meet the existing code and understands the facility cannot be prandfathered;.
however they tag the system as “functional as installed”.
26. That based upon interview and observations, Respondent’s facility failed to meet
minimum requirements.
27. The Agency cited the Respondent’s facility for the above referenced deficiency.
COUNT V
28, The Agency re-alleges and incorporates paragraphs (1) through (5) as if fully set forth
herein.
29, That pursuant to 69A-3.012, Florida Administrative Code, except as specifically
modified by statute or by the State Fire Marshal’s rules, the Florida specific edition of NFPA
101, the Life Safety Code, 2006 edition and the Florida specific edition of NFPA 1, the Uniform
Fire Code 2006 edition, as adopted within Rule Chapter 69A-60, F._A.C., entitled the “2007
edition of the Florida Fire Prevention Code,” are hereby adopted and incorporated by reference
and are applicable to those buildings and structures specified in paragraphs (a) and (b) of
subsection (1) of Section 633.022, Florida Statutes.
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50. That pursuant to Florida’s Life Safety Code, depending on construction date, the
facility is required to have either an automatic sprinkler systern of a standard approved type to
provide complete coverage for all portions of the facility; or specified types and heights of
construction require complete sprinkler protection, All high-rise buildings (over 75' high) shall
be completely protected by an approved, supervised automatic sprinkler system per The Florida
Fire Code, NFPA 1,7.3.2.21.2.2 by 12/13/14.
31. That pursuant to Florida’s Life Safety Code, the facility is required to have a sprinkler
system that is fully supervised and electrically connected to the fire alarm system. LSC 9.7; 18.-
& 19.3.5 (exception); NFPA 72.
32. That pursuant to Florida’s Life Safety Code, the main contol valve of the fire
sprinkler system shall be electrically supervised with at least a local alarm activation upon
closing. LSC 9.7; 18.- & 19.3.5 (exception); NFPA 72
33. That pursuant to Florida’s Life Safety Code, sprinkler systems are to be maintained,
inspected, and tested periodically. LSC 18.- & 19.3.5; 4.6.1.2; 9.7; NFPA 13; NFPA 25.
34. That pursuant to Florida’s Life Safety Code, sprinkler systems shall have a
continuous, reliable water supply, with continuous pressure to meet systern design. LSC 4.6.1.2;
9.7.1.1: NFPA 13; NFPA 25.
35, On or about August 12, 2008, the Agency conducted a survey of the Respondent’s
facility and made the following findings:
The Building Construction is NFPA 220 Type II (000) which requires
a compliant Fire Sprinkler System. The sprinkler systems require
quarterly testing that was not current. The fire sprinklers do not
adequately protect the facility.
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The sprinkler heads were supplied with water and plumbing shared
from the domestic water system. This is only permitted for six or less
heads, and would require dedicated plumbing.
The sprinkler contractor states that they are fully aware that the system.
is non compliant with the requirements for any spnnkler system
Standard, Residential, or Domestic.
The contractor stated that during high water use times there isn’t
enough water or pressure to serve the sprinklers they do have. All
water for the whole Hospital is fed by one 2 4% inch pipe.
36. That based upon interview and observations, Respondent's facility failed to meet state
requirements.
‘ 37. The Agency cited the Respondent’s facility for the above referenced deficiency.
COUNT VI
38. The Agency re-alleges and incorporates paragraphs (1) through (5) as if fully set forth
herein.
39. That pursuant to 69A-3.012, Florida Administrative Code, except as specifically
modified by statute or by the State Fire Marshal’s rules, the Florida specific edition of NFPA
101, the Life Safety Code, 2006 edition and the Flonda specific edition of NFPA 1, the Uniform
Fire Code 2006 edition, as adopted within Rule Chapter 69A-60, F.A.C,, entitled the “2007
edition of the Florida Fire Prevention Code,” are hereby adopted and incorporated by reference
and are applicable to those buildings and structures specified in paragraphs (a) and (b) of
subsection (1) of Section 633.022, Florida Statutes.
40. That pursuant to Florida’s Life Safety Code, cormdor doors shall be 1 3/4 inch solid
bonded wood core doors or they shall have a 20 minute fire resistive rating. If the building or
smoke compartment is fully sprinklered, the door shall only resist the passage of smoke. There
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* shall be no impediment to the closing of the door, and latching devices shall be provided which
keep the door tightly closed in the frame. LSC 18.3.6.3, 19.3.6.3
41. On or about August 12, 2008, the Agency conducted a survey of the Respondent’s
facility and made the following findings
Patient Rooms in this Facility have Roller Latches. Roller Latches were
prohibited on 3/13/03. A three year waiver period was issued which expired
on 3/13/06. This requirement is also a CMS mandate.
42. That based upon observations, Respondent’s facility failed to meet state requirements.
43, The Agency cited the Respondent's facility for the above referenced deficiency.
COUNT VII
44. The Agency re-alleges and incorporates paragraphs (1) through (5) as if fully set forth
herein.
45, That pursuant to 69A-3.012, Florida Administrative Code, except as specifically
modified by starute or by the State Fire Marshal’s rules, the Florida specific edition of NFPA
101, the Life Safety Code, 2006 edition and the Florida specific edition of NFPA 1, the Uniform
Fire Code 2006 edition, as adopted within Rule Chapter 69A-60, F.A.C., entitled the “2007
edition of the Florida Fire Prevention Code,” are hereby adopted and incorporated by reference
and are applicable to those buildings and structures specified in paragraphs (a) and (b) of
subsection (1) of Section 633.022, Florida Statutes.
46. That pursuant to Florida’s Life Safety Code, hazardous areas shall be enclosed with one
hour fire rated construction or be sprinkler protected. Doors assemblies shall be 45 minute fire
rated without vision panels. In new occupancies, repair and paint shops, large storage rooms with
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‘ quantities of combustibles, trash rooms, bulk laundries, soiled linen rooms, and severe hazard
labs shall be one hour fire separated and sprinklered. Sprinkler protection of isolated hazardous
areas may be supplied by domestic water. LSC 18.- & 19.3.2.1
47, On or about August 12, 2008, the Agency conducted a survey of the Respondent’s
facility and made the following findings:
The Ante room located between the two Isolation rooms was being utilized as
collection and storage site for Bio-hazardous waste.
48. That based upon observations, Respondent’s facility was using this area as a hazardous
storage area that would require compliance to meet state requirements for hazardous storage.
49. The Agency cited the Respondent's facility for the above referenced deficiency.
COUNT VIII
50. The Agency re-alleges and incorporates paragraphs (1) through (5) as if fully set fomh
herein.
51. That pursuant to 69A-3.012, Florida Administrative Code, except as specifically
modified by statute or by the State Fire Marshal’s rules, the Florida specific edition of NFPA
101, the Life Safety Code, 2006 edition and the Florida specific edition of NFPA 1, the Uniform
Fire Cade 2006 edition, as adopted within Rule Chapter 69A-60, F.A.C., entitled the «007
edition of the Florida Fire Prevention Code,” are hereby adopted and incorporated by reference
and are applicable to those buildings and structures specified in paragraphs (a) and (b) of
subsection (1) of Section 633.022, Florida Statutes.
52. That pursuant to Florida’s Life Safety Code, the design, installation, and use of
commercial cooking equipment is in accordance with NFPA 96, LSC 9.2.3, 18.3.2.6, 18.3.2.6
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53. That pursuant to the National Fire Protection Association, an exhaust system 18 to be
cleaned semi-annually. NFPA 96, 11.3.
34. On or about August 12, 2008, the Agency conducted a survey of the Respondent’s
facility and made the following findings:
The Kitchen Fire suppression System was out of date for mandatory semi-
annual testing. There was no current documentation that the exhaust hood was
semi-annually depreased and cleaned.
55. That based upon observations, Respondent’s facility was not in compliance.
56. The Agency cited the Respondent’s facility for the above referenced deficiency.
COUNT IX
57, The Agency re-alleges and incorporates paragraphs (1) through (5) as if fully set forth
herein.
58. That pursuant to 69A-3.012, Florida Administrative Code, except as specifically
modified by statute or by the State Fire Marshal’s rules, the Florida specific edition of NFPA
101, the Life Safety Code, 2006 edition and the Florida specific edition of NFPA 1, the Uniform
Fire Code 2006 edition, as adopted within Rule Chapter 69A-60, F.A.C., entitled the “2007
edition of the Florida Fire Prevention Code,” are hereby adopted and incorporated by reference
and are applicable to those buildings and structures specified in paragraphs (a) and (b) of
subsection (1) of Section 633.022, Florida Statutes.
59. That pursuant to Florida’s Life Safety Code, non-flammable medical gas systems and
equipment shall comply with NFPA 99, chapter 8. (Respiratory Therapy). LSC 18- & 19.3.2.4
60. On or about August 12, 2008, the Agency conducted a survey of the Respondent’s
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facility and made the following findings:
61. That based upon interviews and observations, Respondent’s facility was not in
Patient room 25 had a leak in the oxygen outlet. Surveyor requested that the
nearest isolation valve be turned off. Staff tured off valve and it started to
leak. We proceeded to the next isolation valve and shut it off which also
began to leak. The staff assessed patients on oxygen and switched to e-tank
cylinders. The main valve to the facility could not be shut off because no one
knew how. In addition, the system is in a locked up fence. When asked who
had the key, the Maintenance Assistant stated that the Maintenance Director
had it.
The surveyor asked, “Where is the Maintenance Director?”
“He got laid off Monday,” the Maintenance Assistant replied.
The staff contacted the Med Gas contractor who came out and shut it down.
There was no documentation of any kind demonstrating periodic testing
and/or maintenance of the Piped in Medical Gas System.
compliance.
62. The Agency cited the Respondent’s facility for the above referenced deficiency
63. The Agency re-alleges and incorporates paragraphs (1) through (5) as if fully set forth
herein.
64. That pursuant 19 69A-3.012, Florida Administrative Code, except as specifically
modified by statute or by the State Fire Marshal’s rules, the Florida specific edition of NFPA
101, the Life Safety Code, 2006 edition and the Florida specific edition of NFPA 1, the Uniform
Fire Code 2006 edition, as adopted within Rule Chapter 694-60, F.A.C., entitled the “2007
edition of the Florida Fire Prevention Code,” are hereby adopted and incorporated by reference
and are applicable to those buildings and structures specified in paragraphs (a) and (b) of
COUNT X
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" subsection (1) of Section 633.022, Florida Statutes.
65. That pursuant to Florida’s Life Safety Code, a smoke barrier shall be provided on every
floor used or usable for patients and on.non-patient floors with an occupant load of 50 or more.
(Existing requires smoke barriers on sleeping floors with more than 30 patients). LSC 18- &
19.3.7.1., 18. & 19.3.7.2, 83
66. On or about August 12, 2008, the Agency conducted a survey of the Respondent's
facility and made the following findings:
Four of six fire/smoke doors failed to close latch or seal appropriately, This
was based both on manual testing and activation of the fire alarm system.
Removing lay-in ceiling tiles revealed that there are a multitude of
penetrations by pipe, wire, plumbing, and just empty holes in the barriers,
vertical and horizontal, that were left unprotected.
67, That based upon observations, Respondent’s facility was not in compliance.
58. The Agency cited the Respondent’s facility for the above referenced deficiency.
COUNT XI
69. The Agency re-alleges and incorporates paragraphs (1) through (5) as if fully set forth
herein.
70. That pursuant to 69A-3.012, Florida Administrative Code, except as specifically
modified by statute or by the State Fire Marshal’s rules, the Florida specific edition of NEPA.
101, the Life Safety Code, 2006 edition and the Florida specific edition of NFPA 1, the Unifoum
Fire Code 2006 edition, as adopted within Rule Chapter 694-60, F.A.C., entitled the “2007
edition of the Florida Fire Prevention Code,” are hereby adopted and incorporated by reference
and are applicable to those buildings and structures specified in paragraphs (a) and (b) of
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* subsection (1) of Section 633.022, Florida Statutes.
71. That pursuant to Florida’s Life Safety Code, air conditioning and ventilation has been
installed and maintained to all manufacturers specifications, in accordance with NFPA 90A. LSC
18.5.2, 19.5.2, 9.2
72. On or about August 12, 2008, the Agency conducted a survey of the Respondent's
facility and made the following findings:
Although no measurements were actually taken, the entire indoors of the
building was observed to be very damp, or highly humid. Some areas had
strong musty odors indicating mildew. This was compared to the outdoors
which revealed that the humidity indoors was significantly higher than
outdoors. This may be from design, or the ratio of fresh air to re-circulated air,
failure of the air condition units to evaporate moisture from the air, inability to
evaporate moisture, Jncorrect unit replacement or a combination of any or all
of these issues.
73. That based upon observations, Respondent's facility was not in compliance.
74. The Agency cited the Respondent’s facility for the above referenced deficiency.
COUNT XII
75. The Agency re-alleges and incorporates paragraphs (1) through (5) as if fully set forth
herein.
76. That pursuant to 69A-3.012, Florida Administrative Code, except as specifically
modified by statute or by the State Fire Marshal’s rules, the Florida specific edition of NFPA
101, the Life Safety Code, 2006 edition and the Florida specific edition of NFPA 1, the Uniform
Fire Code 2006 edition, as adopted within Rule Chapter 69A-60, F.A.C., entitled the “2007
edition of the Florida Fire Prevention Code,” are hereby adopted and incorporated by reference
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P24
‘and are applicable to those buildings and structures specified in paragraphs (a) and (b) of
subsection (1) of Section 633.022, Florida Statutes.
77, That pursuant to Florida’s Life Safety Code, buildings which normally use life support
equipment have electrical systems designed to the standards of NFPA 99 (2002). LSC 18.5.1.3
(exception), NFPA 99- 4.3 & 13-3.4
78, On or about August 12, 2008, the Agency conducted a survey of the Respondent facility
and made the following findings:
The facility experienced a county wide interruption in electric service in the
afternoon on 8/13/08, The generator failed to restore power to the facility in
10 seconds as required. An assessment was immediately performed to ensure
that no patients were medically dependent upon electricity. Inspection of the
generator revealed that there was no activity with the generator at all. The
Administrative Assistant contacted the former Maintenance Director and the
Generator Contractor. When the Generator Service Technician arrived he
jump started the generator and got it running. The transfer switch had to be
wansferred manually, it would not auto transfer. Power was restored. When
questioned on the amount of fuel in the generator storage tank, the former
Maintenance Director stated that, “It ought to be fine, ] had it filled just after
Hurricane Charlie”. ‘
There was no documentation of battery test (specific gravity). The
Maintenance Assistant stated that they don’t do that.
There was no documentation of actual weekly inspection. The Maintenance
Assistant stated that they don’t do that.
There was no documentation of fuel testing. The Maintenance Assistant
stated that they don’t have that done.
There was no documentation of monthly load tests. The Maintenance
Assistant stated that they don’t do that.
There was no documentation of preventative maintenance by the Generator
Company. ;
79. Thal based upon interview and observations, Respondent’s facility was not in
17
Apr 2? 2009 3:50
APR-27-2889 18:83 AGENCY HEALTH CARE ADMIN 856 921 4158 P.25
“compliance.
80. The Agency cited the Respondent facility for the above referenced deficiency.
COUNT XIT
81. The Agency re-alleges and incorporates paragraphs (1) through (5) as if fully set forth
herein.
82. That pursuant to 59A-3.276, Florida Administrative Code, each hospita] shal] develop,
implement, and maintain a written preventive maintenance plan, in conjunction with the policies
and procedures developed by the infection control committee, io ensure that the facility is
maintained in accordance with the following:
(a) The interior and exterior of buildings shall be in good repair, free of hazards, and
painted as needed. .
(b) All patient care equipment shall be maintained in a clean, properly calibrated, and
safe operating condition;
(c) All plumbing fixtures shall be maintained in good repair to assure proper
functioning, and provided with back flow prevention devices, when required, to
prevent contamination from entering the water supply;
(d) All mechanical and electrical equipment shall be maintained in working order,
and shall be accessible for cleaning and inspection;
(c) Loose, cracked, or peeling wallpaper or paint shall be promptly replaced or
repaired to provide a satisfactory finish;
(f) All furniture and furnishings, including mattresses, pillows, and other bedding;
window coverings; including curtains, blinds, shades, and screens: and cubicle
18
APR-27-2889
83. On or about August 12, 2008, the Agency conducted a survey of the Respondent facility
Apr 2? 2009 3:50
16:3 AGENCY HEALTH CARE ADMIN 856 921 4158
curtains or privacy screens, shall be maintained in good repair; and
(g) The grounds and buildings shall be maintained in a safe and sanitary condition
and kept free from refuse, litter, and vermin breeding or harborage areas.
and made the following findings:
84. That based upon interview and observations, Respondent's facility was not in
There were multiple leaks from the roof pervasive through the facility, many
wet ceiling tiles were observed, and buckets were placed throughout to catch
water. The Attomey General's Office Representative was with the team
during the survey and informed the team that the facility was given a
Medicaid Government Grant for a Rural Hospital to have the entire roof
replaced by the roofing contractor. The grant was for approximately $80,000
based on the estimates that the faciliry provided. Inspection of-the roof with
the Maintenance Assistant and the Former Maintenance Director revealed that
one section of the roof was replaced by a Roofing Contractor (approximately
1/3 of the area). The former Maintenance Director and the Assistant stated
that they got a bunch of rolled roofing supplies and 5 gallon buckets of roof
tar and the two of them tried to fix the leaks in the roof. They stated that they
spent 6 or 7 thousand dollars.
No roof project was submitted to the AHCA Office of Plans and Construction,
the last project submitted to AHCA was 1998.
compliance.
85. The Agency cited the Respondent facility for the above referenced deficiency.
86. The Agency re-alleges and incorporates paragraphs (1) through (5) as if fully set forth
herein.
87. That pursuant to 59A-3,2085(10)(a)-(i), Florida Administrative Code, provides that each
Class I and Class Il hospital shall provide on the premises, and each Class III hospital shall
COUNT XIV
19
P.26
APR-27-2889
Apr 2? 2009 3:51
16:3 AGENCY HEALTH CARE ADMIN 856 921 4158
‘provide on the premises or by contract, diagnostic imaging facilities according 10 the needs of the
hospital and conform to Chapter 404, F.S., Chapter 64E-5, F.A.C., Part IV, Chapter 468, F.S.,
and Chapter 64E-3, F.A.C.
(a) The radiology department or other similarly titled part shall be maintained free of
hazards for patients and personnel.
(b) Each hospital shall have a radiologist either full time or part time on a consulting
basis to discharge professional radiology services.
(c) Each hospital shall have certified radiologic technologists or basic x-ray machine
operator in hospitals of 150 beds or less, and shall be on duty or on call at all times,
pursuant to Part IV, Chapter 468, F.S.; and Chapter 64E-3, F.A.C.
(d) The use of all diagnostic imaging apparatus shall be limited to personnel
designated as specified in Part IV, Chapter 468, F.S., and Chapter 64E-3, F.A.C.
(e) The credentials of each person providing diagnostic and therapeutic radiation,
imaging and nuclear medicine services, including formal training, on-the-job
experience, and certification or licensure where applicable, shall be maintained on file
at all times.
(f) Each hospital shall maintain and enforce policies and procedures for the provision
of all diagnostic and therapeutic radiation, imaging, and nuclear medicine services,
and ensure compliance with the requirements of Chapter 64E-5, F.A.C. Such policies
and procedures shall be written, reviewed annually, and revised as necessary in
conformance with Chapter 645-5, F.A.C., and shall be dated as to time of last review.
(g) Each hospital shall require that all diagnostic and therapeutic radiology, imaging
or nuclear medicine services be performed only upon written order of a licensed
physician. The request and all results must be recorded in the patient's medical
record;
(h) Each hospital shall ensure documentation, and reporting to the Bureau of
Radiation Control of the Department of Health of all misadministration of radioactive
materials, as those terms are defined by Chapter 64E-5, F.A.C.
(i) Each hospital shall maintain and document in writing a quality control program
designed to minimize the unnecessary duplication of radiographic studies, to
minimize exposure time of patients and personnel, and to maximize the quality of
diagnostic information and therapy provided.
88. On or about August 12, 2008, the Agency conducted a survey of the Respondent facility
and made the following findings:
P.2?
APR-27-2889
89, That based upon interview and observations, Respondent’s facility was not in
Apr 2? 2009 3:51
16: a4 AGENCY HEALTH CARE ADMIN 856 921 4158
A portable X-Ray machine was sitting in the hall outside the X-ray room.
Equipment in this room appeared was old and yellowed. A plastic protective
coating over the keyboard for the operation of the equipment was cracked,
peeling and in some instances missing. A room behind the control room
contained the developer. Beneath the developer were several layers of
blankets/sheets. When a staff member was asked about these linens, it was
stated that they were there because the developer leaked (chemicals).
A review of policy and procedure for this department revealed all films are
sent out for a radiologist to review and interpret. This process could take 12
to 24 hours. A policy also states “Diagnostic Imaging services will be
provided 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Imaging services will be
provided under the direction and supervision of a qualified Radiologist, by
trained state-certified technologist or Basic Machine Operator.”
An interview with staff indicates a Radiologist is not on the premises most
days. “He is only here when an invasive procedure is being done.” It was
further stated that the technologist is not under the direct supervision of a
Radiologist as indicated by the above mentioned policy (019.005).
compliance.
90. The Agency cited the Respondent facility for the above referenced deficiency.
WHEREFORE, the Petitioner finds that there has been a substantial failure to comply
with the requirements of Florida Law, and therefore seeks to REVOKE the license of Trinity
Community Hospital, pursuant to Section 395.003, Florida Statutes.
Respectfully submitted this ath, of September, 8.
=~ yi
SAL! S
Shaddrick A. Haston
Fla. Bar. No. 30197
Agency for Health Care Administration
2727 Mahan Drive
Tallahassee, Florida 32308
850.487.9845 (office)
$50,921,0158 (fax)
21
P.28
Apr 2? 2009 3:51
APR-27-2889 18:84 AGENCY HEALTH CARE ADMIN 856 921 4158 P.29
‘Respondent is notified that it has aright to request an administrative hearing pursuant to Section
120.569, Florida Statutes. Respondent has the right to retain, and be represented by an attorney
in this matter. Specific options for administrative action are set out in the attached Election of
Rights.
All requests for hearing shall be made to the Agency for Health Care Administration, and
delivered to Agency Clerk, Agency for Health Care Administration, 2727 Mahan Drive, Bldg
#3,MS #3, Tallahassee, FL 32308;Telephone (850) 922-5873.
RESPONDENT IS FURTHER NOTIFIED THAT THE FAILURE TO REQUEST A HEARING
WITHIN 21 DAYS OF RECEIPT OF THIS COMPLAINT WILL RESULT IN AN
ADMISSION OF THE FACTS ALLEGED IN THE COMPLAINT AND THE ENTRY OF A
FINAL ORDER BY THE AGENCY.
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
1 HEREBY CERTIFY that a true and correct copy of the foregoing has been served by
U.S. Certified Mail, Return Receipt No. 7004 1160 0003 3739 4233 to William B. Watson, HI,
Watson & Watson, 4131 NW 2R Lane, Gainesville, Florida 32606; and by U.S. Certified Mail,
Return Receipt No. 7004 1160 0003 3739 4264 to Robert Krasnow, President, H.C. Healthcare,
Inc. d/b/a Trinity Community Hospital, 9517 Southwest 34" Lane, Gainesville, Florida 32608
this gy day of September, 2008.
Shaddrick A. Haston, Esq.
U.S. Postal Service, U.S. Postal Service,
Cop
Kris ™ CERTIFIED MAIL. RECEIPT wa CERTIFIED MAIL, RECEIPT
Beg: (Domestic Mail Only; No insurance Coverage ey) Re ee ee roca surance Coverage Provited)
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7, Tit Posty illiam B. Watson, IIT taaPost, H.C, Healtheare, Inc. d/b/a Trinity |
ays qyetson & Watson a 775 Community Hospital
re 131 NW 28" Dane hessarape 9517 Southwest 34" Lane
or FO Box Nc Gainesville, Florida 32608
Gainesville, Florida 32606
Apr 2? 2009 3:52
856 921 4158 P.38
APR-27-2889 18:85 AGENCY HEALTH CARE ADMIN
COMPI CTE THE APCTION ON DEIVERY
A,_Flecalved by (Please Print Clearly) |B, Date of Dallvary’
Ets Me Wawd (O/d¥
G, Signature
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D. Is delivery address diferent trom hem 17 C0 Yes
(f YES, enter delivery address balow: © No
AR: COMPLETE THIS SECTION
Complete items 1, 2, and 3, Also complete
item 4 If Restrictad Dalivary is desired.
@ Print your name and address on the reverse
so that we can return the card to you.
@ Attach this card to the back of the mailpiece,
or on the front if space permits.
1. Article Addressed to:
William B. Watson, IT
Watson & Watson
2
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Gainesville, Florida 32606 Gertlfied Mali (C1 Express Mall
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4, Flestricted Delivery? (Extra Fea) TD Yes
2, = Number (Copy from service label) 7004 LibD OO03 3739 4233
PS Form 9811, July 1999 Domastle Return Recalpt 102508-00-M-0862
Postage & Fa:
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UNITED Staves PostaL SERvicE | | | | | .
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Sender: Please print your name, address, and ZIP+4 in this box «
Lisa Jensen
Agency for Health Care Administration
2727 Mahan Drive, MS#3
Tallahassee, Florida 32308
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Docket for Case No: 09-002263
Issue Date |
Proceedings |
Sep. 16, 2010 |
BY ORDER OF THE COURT: The May 4. 2010, show cause order is hereby discharged. This appeal is dismissed pursuant to Florida Rule of Appellate Procedure 9.350 (b) filed.
|
May 05, 2010 |
BY ORDER OF THE COURT: appellant shall show cause within 10 days of the date of this order why this appeal should not be dismissed filed.
|
Mar. 10, 2010 |
BY ORDER OF THE COURT: Appellant shall either file a certified copy of the lower tribunal`s order of insolvency for appellate purposes as required by Florida Rule of Appellate Procedure 9.430 filed.
|
Mar. 10, 2010 |
Acknowledgment of New Case, DCA Case No. 1D10-1140 filed.
|
Mar. 08, 2010 |
Notice of Appeal filed and Certified copy sent to the District Court of Appeal this date.
|
Mar. 08, 2010 |
Respondent's Notice of Appeal filed.
|
Feb. 05, 2010 |
Order (denying Respondent's motion to vacate order closing file).
|
Feb. 05, 2010 |
Agency Final Order filed.
|
Feb. 05, 2010 |
Notice of Filing (filed in Case No. 09-003532).
|
Feb. 04, 2010 |
Agency's Response to Respondent's Verified Motion to Vacate Order Closing File filed.
|
Jan. 26, 2010 |
Verfified Motion to Vacate Order Closing Files filed.
|
Jan. 05, 2010 |
Order Closing Files. CASE CLOSED.
|
Dec. 22, 2009 |
Motion to Relinquish Jurisdiction filed.
|
Dec. 08, 2009 |
Order to Show Cause.
|
Nov. 06, 2009 |
Motion to Render Case Moot and Dismiss for Lack of Subject Matter Jurisdiction filed.
|
Oct. 28, 2009 |
Order Re-scheduling Hearing (hearing set for February 24 through 26, 2010; 10:00 a.m.; Lake City, FL).
|
Oct. 16, 2009 |
Joint Status Report filed.
|
Sep. 29, 2009 |
Notice of Ex-parte Communication.
|
Sep. 17, 2009 |
Order Granting Continuance (parties to advise status by October 16, 2009).
|
Sep. 16, 2009 |
Order Granting Motion to Withdraw as Counsel of Record.
|
Sep. 16, 2009 |
CASE STATUS: Motion Hearing Held. |
Sep. 14, 2009 |
Undeliverable envelope returned from the Post Office.
|
Sep. 10, 2009 |
Motion to Withdraw filed.
|
Sep. 09, 2009 |
Notice of Filing (email from H. Averell) filed.
|
Sep. 08, 2009 |
Order Granting Motion to Withdraw as Counsel of Record.
|
Sep. 08, 2009 |
CASE STATUS: Motion Hearing Held. |
Sep. 03, 2009 |
Notice of Hearing filed.
|
Sep. 01, 2009 |
Motion to Compel Discovery filed.
|
Aug. 25, 2009 |
Motion to Withdraw as Counsel of Record filed.
|
Aug. 07, 2009 |
Order Re-scheduling Hearing (hearing set for October 5 through 8, 2009; 10:00 a.m.; Lake City, FL).
|
Aug. 06, 2009 |
Order of Consolidation (DOAH Case Nos. 09-3532 and 09-3956).
|
Aug. 05, 2009 |
Order Granting Continuance (parties to advise status by August 5, 2009).
|
Aug. 04, 2009 |
Joint Motion to Consolidate and Continue Hearing filed.
|
Jul. 22, 2009 |
Notice of Service of the Agency for Health for Health Care Administration's Supplemental Response to H.C. Healthcare, Inc. d/b/a Trinity Community Hospital's First Request for Production filed.
|
Jul. 16, 2009 |
Notice of Service of the Agency for Health Care Administration's Response to H.C. Healthcare, Inc. d/b/a Trinity Community Hospital's First Request for Admissions filed.
|
Jul. 16, 2009 |
Notice of Service of the Agency for Health Care Administration's Response to H.C. Healthcare, Inc. d/b/a Trinity Community Hospital's First Request for Interrogatories filed.
|
Jul. 16, 2009 |
Notice of Service of the Agency for Health Care Administration's Response to H.C. Healthcare, Inc. d/b/a Trinity Community Hospital's First Request for Production filed.
|
Jun. 16, 2009 |
Notice of Service of the Agency for Health Care Administration's Response to H.C. Healthcare, Inc. d/b/a Trinity Community Hospital's First Request for Interrogatories filed.
|
Jun. 16, 2009 |
Notice of Service of the Agency for Health Care Administration's Response to H.C. Healthcare, Inc. d/b/a Trinity Community Hospital's First Request for Production filed.
|
Jun. 16, 2009 |
Notice of Service of the Agency for Health Care Administration's Response to H.C. Healthcare, Inc. d/b/a Trinity Community Hospital's First Request for Admissions filed.
|
May 28, 2009 |
Order Granting Continuance and Re-scheduling Hearing (hearing set for August 17 through 21, 2009; 1:00 p.m.; Jasper, FL).
|
May 28, 2009 |
Order of Consolidation (DOAH Case Nos. 09-2263 and 09-2271).
|
May 27, 2009 |
Joint Motion to Consolidate and Continue Hearing filed.
|
May 06, 2009 |
Notice of Hearing (hearing set for June 24, 2009; 1:00 p.m.; Jasper, FL).
|
May 06, 2009 |
Order of Pre-hearing Instructions.
|
Apr. 28, 2009 |
Initial Order.
|
Apr. 27, 2009 |
Administrative Complaint filed.
|
Apr. 27, 2009 |
Election of Rights filed.
|
Apr. 27, 2009 |
Order of Dismissal without Prejudice Pursuant to Section 120.569(2)(c), Florida Statutes to Allow for Amendment and Resubmission of Petition filed.
|
Apr. 27, 2009 |
Notice (of Agency referral) filed.
|
Orders for Case No: 09-002263