Lehigh Valley Hospital Tsu

In the surveyor’s words

From the most serious findings on record at Lehigh Valley Hospital Tsu, in the surveyor’s own words.

• Immediate jeopardy, widespreadF689Apr 16, 2025

  Based on a review of facility policy, observation, interviews with residents and staff, and review of facility documentation, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure water temperatures in the central shower room and resident bathroom sinks were maintained at a safe temperature for the Transitional Skilled Unit (TSU). This failure placed residents on the TSU at risk for serious injury from thermal burns and resulted in an Immediate Jeopardy situation. Findings include: Review of facility policy titled, Water Intrusion Response Algorithm, dated April 7, 2025, revealed that the facility was to maintain hot water temperatures allowable by state regulations or codes for nursing care facilities between 95 degrees Fahrenheit (F) and 110 degrees F to help minimize the risk of… […]

• No harm, potential for more than minimal, widespreadF812Jul 9, 2021

  Based on policy review, observations, and staff interview, it was determined that the facility failed to properly store food items and failed to maintain sanitary conditions in the dietary department. Findings include: Review of the facility's policy entitled, Food and Supply Storage, last reviewed January 2020, revealed that all food, non-food items and supplies used in food preperation was to be stored in such a manner as to prevent contamination to maintain the safety and wholesomeness of the food for human consumption. The procedure was to cover, label and date unused portions and open packages. […]

• No harm, potential for more than minimal, isolatedF554May 21, 2026

  Based on facility policy review, clinical record review, observation, and resident and staff interviews, it was determined that the facility failed to assess a resident's capability to self-administer medications for one of 12 sampled residents. (Resident 48)Findings include:Review of the facility policy entitled, Medications Self-Administration - Pharmacy, last reviewed April 8, 2026, revealed that self-administration of medications could only occur under direct observation by a licensed staff member for residents who are determined to be fully alert, oriented, and able to follow instructions. The policy also stated that nursing staff were to instruct the patient in the proper use of the medication and document this education in the interdisciplinary teaching record. […]

• No harm, potential for minimal, widespreadF814Jul 9, 2021

  Based on observation, it was determined that the facility failed to properly contain refuse in a sanitary manner. Findings include: Observation on July 7, 2021, at 10:30 a.m., of the compactor/dumpster area which is located outside of the building, revealed that there was dirt and debris on the ground that included milk cartons, water bottles, cardboard and an accumulation of dirt and debris near and on the side of the compactor area. 28 Pa. Code 207.2(a) Administrator's responsibility.