A Pennsylvania nursing home is facing at least a $62,000 fine from the federal government for infection control deficiencies at the facility during the coronavirus pandemic.
The federal investigation happened in mid-May at the Brighton Rehabilitation and Wellness Center, a 589-bed facility in Beaver, PA, following concerns about its COVID-19 outbreak, TribLIVE reported Thursday. About 80 residents there had died from the disease as of June 10.
Despite widespread criticism and national attention to its past challenges, Brighton management said the facility has “closely adhered to the strict guidelines and recommendations set forth by health officials” throughout the pandemic.
“While we must continue to be vigilant in our fight against COVID-19, we are making tremendous strides in our ability to gain control of this virus and remove it from our facility,” Brighton officials said in response to the investigation.
“We are thankful for the tireless work of our dedicated staff as well as the assistance of those who have supported our facility and residents throughout this pandemic. We remain committed to working hand-in-hand with all local, state and federal authorities to defeat COVID-19 together,” management added.
Deficiencies were found during the investigation included personal protective equipment not being worn properly by staff members, medical equipment not being cleaned correctly and problems concerning the frequency of medical record documentation, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
Since 2017, the nursing home has been assessed more than $63,000 in fines by the federal government, according to the report. It has so far been fined $62,580 and that could increase once the investigation is finalized.
