Nursing homes in Pennsylvania house some of the state’s most vulnerable residents. When people are unable to take care of their elderly family member, nursing homes are supposed to be available to take over. These homes are supposed to provide around-the-clock care for patients in need. These facilities, in theory, have access to the medical support and specialized equipment that residents need.
In order to ensure that nursing home residents receive the best care possible, the state of Pennsylvania has enacted regulations for nursing homes to follow. These regulations are in place to help ensure that nursing home neglect and abuse does not occur.
Many of these regulations are about the resident’s living quarters. In a nursing home bedroom in Pennsylvania, certain requirements must be met to keep elderly patients safe and secure. First, nursing home facilities cannot exceed the number of bedrooms listed on the license issued by the state of Pennsylvania. Additionally, under section 205.20 of the Pennsylvania code, each bedroom must be approved by the state.
Under this section, a single resident’s bedroom must be at least 100 square feet — or 80 square feet if the unit was built before 1975. This does not include the closets, wardrobe or bathrooms. If the room houses multiple beds, then the room must include at least 80 square feet of space per bed in the room. Under section 205.23, these bedrooms must be close to bathing facilities and must have an adjoining toilet facility.
Section 205.22 says that beds must not be located in certain areas within the room unless special accommodations are made. This includes not in direct proximity of natural light, air conditioners or radiators. If provisions are made to protect the person’s safety and comfort, then the beds can be in this location.
If these regulations are ignored, people can get hurt. If a nursing home resident is hurt because of a facilities neglect, then legal action might be required. A Pennsylvania nursing home abuse attorney can help to explain people’s rights.