WATER'S EDGE

11040 NORTH STATE RD 77, HAYWARD, WI 54843 (715) 934-4300
Non profit - Corporation 50 Beds Independent Data: November 2025
Trust Grade
85/100
#74 of 321 in WI
Last Inspection: May 2025

Inspected within the last 6 months. Data reflects current conditions.

Overview

Water's Edge in Hayward, Wisconsin, has a Trust Grade of B+, indicating it is above average and recommended for care. It ranks #74 out of 321 facilities in the state, placing it in the top half, and is the best option among the two nursing homes in Sawyer County. However, the facility's trend is worsening, with reported issues increasing from 1 in 2024 to 3 in 2025. While staffing is a strength, rated 5 out of 5 stars, indicating stable staff who are familiar with residents, the facility has faced serious concerns regarding resident supervision and safety. For example, a resident fell and sustained fractures because their bed alarm was not functioning, and another resident was transferred without the correct assistance, leading to a fall. On a positive note, the facility has not incurred any fines, showing compliance with regulations, but it does need to improve its infection control measures to ensure a safe environment for all residents.

Trust Score
B+
85/100
In Wisconsin
#74/321
Top 23%
Safety Record
Moderate
Needs review
Inspections
Getting Worse
1 → 3 violations
Staff Stability
⚠ Watch
47% turnover. Above average. Higher turnover means staff may not know residents' routines.
Penalties
✓ Good
No fines on record. Clean compliance history, better than most Wisconsin facilities.
Skilled Nurses
✓ Good
Each resident gets 61 minutes of Registered Nurse (RN) attention daily — more than 97% of Wisconsin nursing homes. RNs are the most trained staff who catch health problems before they become serious.
Violations
✓ Good
Only 5 deficiencies on record. Cleaner than most facilities. Minor issues only.
★★★★★
5.0
Overall Rating
★★★★★
5.0
Staff Levels
★★☆☆☆
2.0
Care Quality
★★★★☆
4.0
Inspection Score
Stable
2024: 1 issues
2025: 3 issues

The Good

  • 5-Star Staffing Rating · Excellent nurse staffing levels
  • Full Sprinkler Coverage · Fire safety systems throughout facility
  • No fines on record

Facility shows strength in staffing levels, fire safety.

The Bad

Staff Turnover: 47%

Near Wisconsin avg (46%)

Higher turnover may affect care consistency

The Ugly 5 deficiencies on record

1 actual harm
Aug 2025 1 deficiency 1 Harm
SERIOUS (G) 📢 Someone Reported This

A family member, employee, or ombudsman was alarmed enough to file a formal complaint

Actual Harm - a resident was hurt due to facility failures

Accident Prevention (Tag F0689)

A resident was harmed · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review, observation, and interview, the facility did not ensure that each resident receives adequate supervision...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review, observation, and interview, the facility did not ensure that each resident receives adequate supervision and assistance devices to prevent accidents for 2 of 3 residents (R) (R1 and R2) reviewed.The facility did not ensure R2's bed alarm was functioning to alert staff of self-transfer resulting in R2 falling and sustaining an acute fracture involving the left orbital roof, opacified left frontal sinus consistent with fracture involving its lateral wall, and a left nasal fracture. This example is being cited at actual harm.The facility did not ensure that R1 was transferred with assist of 2 and correct sling causing R1 to fall to the floor. Findings:The facility policy titled Plan for the Provision of Nursing Care, undated, states in part under the section Staffing: .E. Nursing assistance provide assistance and care to residents according to the plan of care. The facility policy titled Falls Management Program: Accident Prevention & Investigation, undated, states: It is the mission of the Water's Edge Care Center to prevent falls, prevent accident, and reduce the risk of injuries. Our goal is to ensure the environment remains safe and [NAME] from potential hazards that may lead to an accident, to ensure adequate supervision and ultimately improve the quality of life of our residents. Under the section titled Definition, the policy continues to state: Our facility has adopted the Health Care Association of New Jersey (HCANJ) Best practice evident based Fall Management Guidelines which includes assessments, analysis of risk level, treatment plan, evaluation, education and quality improvement tools.The facility policy states in part: they have specific interventions not included in HCANJ Fall Management Guidelines include but are not limited to: .Risk rounds done before/after shifts assuring obstacles are clear, personal items are within reach, and bed exits are on.We attempt to provide an alarm free facility, we do provide silent bed exits to pager alarms for some residents in an attempt to assist them when they have exited the bed (note this is not to prevent a fall as it has been proven that alarms do not work to prevent a fall, only alert staff that someone has risen). Ours are silent to resident but alert staff via pager.Example 1R2 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses that include cerebral infarction, unspecified symptoms and sign involving cognitive functions following cerebral infarction.R2's quarterly MDS, dated [DATE], indicates a BIMS score of 12/15 indicating mildly impaired cognition and documents R2 requires supervision for transfers.R2's care plan needs, dated 10/23/24, states: I have the potential to fall down and hurt myself, because I am weak, take some medications that can make me dizzy, tired, confused or weak. Approaches include I need my nurses to know that coumadin has a black box warning of Bleeding Risk and can cause major or fatal bleeding.R2's care plan needs, dated 05/07/25, state in part: I can't complete my cares on my own . because I have left facial droop and left sided weakness with a care plan approach dated 01/02/25 that states: I can't transfer safely without help, so I use a bed alarm, page recliner, pager alarm. Check that alarm(s) are applied correctly and turned on.R2‘s nurses notes indicated R2 sustained a major injury on 07/03/25 wherein R2 was found on the floor at 8:00 PM, with head surrounded by a pool of blood and sustained bruising and hematoma over left front skull 3 cm x 4cm, left eye bruised and swollen shut. Alarm not functioning due to the alarm not being plugged in. When staff plugged alarm in, it was noted to be defective and was replaced.R2's physician was contacted and R2 was sent out to emergency room. R2 returned to facility on 07/04/25 at 12:00 AM with diagnoses of left orbital fracture and left nasal fracture.On 08/08/25, Surveyor reviewed emergency room record dated 07/03/25, which stated a CT of Maxillofacial without contrast was completed and impressions of: 1. Moderate left-sided facial soft tissue swelling with moderate left frontotemporal scalp soft tissue swelling. 2. Acute fracture involving the left orbital roof. Opacified left frontal sinus consistent with fracture involving its lateral wall. 3. Left nasal fracture.On 08/08/25 at 11:03 AM, Surveyor interviewed Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) C regarding expectations of following plans of care and how CNAs are made aware of care plan interventions and changes. CNA C stated care plans are in the computer and are expected to be followed. If there are changes made we receive information during morning rounds, and they are to look up in electronic record. There is a button where staff can view changes using separate buttons for a 1, 3, or 7 day look back period for any changes made based on the last time they worked. CNA C confirmed recently receiving education regarding ensuring following care plans and to ensure correct lifts and 2-person assist is utilized for residents per individual care plans.On 08/08/25 at 11:15 AM, Surveyor interviewed CNA D who confirmed electronic records buttons are to be utilized at the beginning of each shift and CNA D recently received education on following plans of care.On 08/08/25 at 12:30 PM, Surveyor interviewed Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) A and Director of Nursing (DON) B regarding their expectations of following plans of care both related to recent falls of R1 and R2. NHA A and DON B confirmed expectation that staff follow the plans of care.Surveyor asked NHA A and DON B about their expectation of ensuring alarms were applied correctly and functional. DON B stated that CNAs are responsible for applying and ensuring alarms are working. The alarms chirp when the battery is low and facility has been conducting weekly audits on all residents who utilize alarms to ensure alarms are plugged in and if chirping indicating the battery is low, batteries are replaced. Surveyor asked when audits of alarms were started. DON B stated they were in the 4th week of audits. Surveyor asked what prompted the audits; DON B stated as a result of a fall wherein an alarm did not work properly. Surveyor asked DON B if this was due to the fall of R2 on 07/03/25 and DON B stated Yes. Surveyor asked what was the root cause of the alarm not working properly? DON B stated that one alarm box is used per resident and with R2 it is used between the bed and recliner. The alarm box was not changed from the bed to the recliner when R2 was placed in recliner. DON B stated the expectation would be for the CNA to transfer the box to the sensor pad cord in use and ensure the alarm is plugged in.Surveyor asked DON B and NHA A if an investigation was conducted and reported for R2's fall. NHA A stated a Root Cause Analysis (RCA) is being completed through the facility quality department and this usually takes months. Surveyor requested information of audits conducted on alarms. DON B stated she does not have documentation for proof of audits or documentation to support education was provided to staff for the process of checking alarm function. DON B stated the expectation was for them to check during shift to shift rounding. Surveyor asked if this was a process that started following the 07/03/25 fall, DON B stated, No. The expectation was in place prior to R2's fall but was not completed.Example 2R1 was admitted to the facility on [DATE] and has diagnoses that include malignant neuroendocrine tumors and mild cognitive impairment of uncertain or unknown etiology.R1's most recent Minimum Data Set (MDS), was a significant change MDS, with target date of 06/02/25. R1 has a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 10/15 indicating mildly impaired cognition and is dependent with toileting needs, dressing, and transfers. R1 has an Activated Power of Attorney (POA) as of 07/05/24.R1's care plan needs, dated 05/28/25, state, I can't complete cares on my own. Care plan approaches per facility indicated at time of fall R1 should have been transferred using an Arjo lift (full body lift) and assist of 2 helpers.On 06/26/25, the facility submitted a Misconduct Incident Report wherein R1 sustained minor injuries from a fall that occurred on 06/26/25 as a result of a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) failing to follow the plan of care for R1. The CNA transferred R1 with an incorrect mechanical lift and without the assist of another helper. The facility completed an investigation upon reporting the incident and educated all staff regarding following the plan of care to prevent falls/safety. Current non-compliance was discovered during this survey with F689.
May 2025 2 deficiencies
CONCERN (D)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Deficiency F0699 (Tag F0699)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review and interview, the facility did not ensure 1 of 1 resident ((R)8) who are trauma survivors receive cultur...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on record review and interview, the facility did not ensure 1 of 1 resident ((R)8) who are trauma survivors receive culturally competent, trauma-informed care in accordance with professional standards of practice and accounting for resident's experiences and preferences to eliminate or mitigate triggers that may cause re-traumatization of the resident. R8 expressed he had lost his son in a tragic car accident which at certain times of the year it is very difficult. The facility did not assess R8 for trauma informed care. R8's care plan did not identify potential triggers in attempts to mitigate re-traumatization. Findings Include: On [DATE] at 1:21 PM, Surveyor requested and received the facility policy titled Trauma-Informed Care dated [DATE]. The policy in part read: Purpose: The facility must ensure that residents who are trauma survivors receive culturally competent, trauma-informed care in accordance with professional standards of practice and accounting for residents' experiences and preferences in order to eliminate or mitigate triggers that may cause re-traumatization of the resident. Policy: Staff review each residents record for, but not limited to recent or past traumatic events . Social Services gathers each resident's social history. If traumatic events are identified these events are care planned . Care planned approaches will be culturally competent and account for experiences and preferences and address the needs of trauma survivors by minimizing triggers and/or re-traumatization. Surveyor reviewed R8's record and noted the following: R8's most recent Minimum Data Set (MDS) dated [DATE] notes R8 understands, is understood, and R8 has moderate cognitive impairment. R8 had depressive mood symptoms of feeling down, depressed, or hopeless nearly every day. R8's diagnosis included depression. R8's record did not include a social history from admission on [DATE]. R8's record did not include a trauma-informed assessment. R8's care plan includes: [DATE]: Need/Preference: I have the potential to feel sad, depressed because I have a diagnosed mood disorder-major depressive disorder, traumatic event=[AGE] year old son passed away as a result of car accident. When I feel this way I: feel down or depressed. My goal is to feel safe and secure. Goal Time: [DATE] Approach: ~Ask me how I am feeling ~Evaluate for environmental triggers: e.g.: room temperature, positioning, noise level. If demonstrating signs of sadness or depression complete ortho bp (blood pressure) checks as ordered and as needed . Provided clear explanations, assess understanding, offer me distractions, treat for pain and evaluate effectiveness . ~Know that I have potential to demonstrate side effects of zoloft . ~Monitor for signs and symptoms of Serotonin Syndrome . ~Refer to activity care plan my simple pleasure. ~Ask me if I am having pain and report to nurse if I am, remind me of my favorite activities, help me call my family as needed, present tasks one at a time, follow my toileting plan, let my nurse know if my appetite changes, reassure me, offer me choices, ask me how I'm feeling today, encourage me to participate in activities, ask me what activities I would like to attend, invite me to attend activities, spend time with me one on one. At night quiet down my area, such as turn down the lights, be aware of my stressors . ~Complete PHQ-9 mood interviews with me. ~Speak with me and make eye contact, give me choices, let my nurse know if I am having pain, say something positive to me. R8's care plan documents the traumatic event of losing his son. It does not address R8's preferences and does not address R8's needs related to trauma or identify triggers to prevent re-traumatization. On [DATE] at 12:35 PM, Surveyor interviewed R8 who stated R8 sometimes feels down and sad over the loss of his son who died in a tragic car accident when he was [AGE] years old. R8 expressed sometimes the loss affects R8 more around certain times of the year. On [DATE] at 10:47 AM, Surveyor interviewed Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) C, who has been on staff almost 5 years and often cares for R8. CNA C expressed she had never heard of R8's son's passing. R8 has not talked about it with CNA C. CNA C stated CNA C is not aware of any approaches specific to R8's trauma stating, I would redirect or distract resident if he would bring it up. On [DATE] at 10:52 AM, Surveyor interviewed Social Services Director (SSD) D regarding R8's trauma and trauma informed care. SSD D provided Surveyor with R8's social history, dated [DATE], from a prior admission, which notes the following: My Adult Life: .We also had a son .he passed away in car accident at age [AGE]. Traumatic Events: See above regarding son .will complete mental well-being care plan. SSD D expressed facility uses a social history to develop a care plan for emotional well-being. The facility did not complete a social history when R8 was admitted on [DATE] as R8 was a prior resident. Surveyor asked SSD D if the facility completes a trauma-informed assessment looking at R8's preferences, needs, and potential triggers when trauma is identified. SSD D expressed the facility does not currently do trauma-informed-assessments or gather information which addresses specific triggers regarding traumatic events to develop a care plan. SSD D further expressed SSD D sees why the information would be needed.
CONCERN (F)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Infection Control (Tag F0880)

Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents

Based on interview and record review, the facility did not establish and maintain an infection prevention and control program designed to provide a safe, sanitary, and comfortable environment and to h...

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Based on interview and record review, the facility did not establish and maintain an infection prevention and control program designed to provide a safe, sanitary, and comfortable environment and to help prevent the development and transmission of communicable diseases and infections. The facility did not describe the building water systems using text and flow diagrams. This has the potential to affect all 37 residents in the facility. Findings include: Surveyor's record review of the facility's water management plan revealed a description of some areas where water was stagnated, and a record of weekly flushing of facility's stagnate water, but no text and flow diagrams were found with hotspots indicating potential hazards on the diagram. On 05/14/25 at 9:09 AM, Surveyor interviewed Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) A and Chief Operating Officer (COO) E regarding the lack of a text and flow diagram. NHA A and COO E stated they would attempt to locate the text and flow diagram, as their head of maintenance was unavailable. A flow chart was located with points of concerns noted, but there was not any identification of areas of concern and the flow chart did not show all areas on concerns noted in the water management plan for the nursing home.
Apr 2024 1 deficiency
CONCERN (F)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Infection Control (Tag F0880)

Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents

Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility did not establish and maintain an infection prevention and control program designed to provide a safe, sanitary, and comfortable enviro...

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Based on observation, interview, and record review, the facility did not establish and maintain an infection prevention and control program designed to provide a safe, sanitary, and comfortable environment and to help prevent the development and transmission of communicable diseases and infections. This had the potential to affect all 40 residents (R). The facility did not complete surveillance for the time of onset of symptoms for COVID-19 symptomatic staff. Findings include: Surveyor requested and reviewed the facility procedure titled House Supervisor and Leader Guidance for Ill Employee Calls dated 02/19/24. The procedure in part reads: .What should House Supervisors initially do when a phone call from an ill employee calls? Questions to ask include, but are not limited to: -When did employee symptoms start? What symptoms is the employee having? - Has the employee had any exposure to anyone else that is ill? -Has the employee had a known COVID-19 exposure? Surveyor reviewed Infection Control (IC) surveillance logs and found the facility identified the facility had an outbreak of COVID-19 starting on 02/08/24 and ending on 03/05/24, which affected 12 of 40 residents. Surveillance logs identified 7 out of 14 employees who had symptoms of COVID 19, that did not have the date and time of onset of symptoms on the surveillance log. COVID-19 logs read: -Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) C had onset of symptoms (runny nose) on 01/09/24. CNA C last worked on 01/09/24 from 5:50 AM to 6:56 AM. The surveillance does not identify the time of onset of symptoms to determine if the employee should have been in work status. - CNA D had onset of symptoms on 02/08/24. The surveillance does not indicate the time of onset of signs and symptoms. -Registered Nurse (RN) E had onset of symptoms (fatigue, hoarse throat, and high blood sugars) on 02/07/24. The surveillance does not indicate the time of the onset of signs and symptoms, or if RN E completed a Covid test on 2/07/24 and what the results were. -Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) A had onset of symptoms on 02/07/24, worked on 02/08/24 in building and then tested COVID-19 positive on 02/09/24. The surveillance does not indicate a time of the onset of signs and symptoms, or if a Covid test was completed on 2/7/24. Without knowing the test results the facility was unable to determine if NHA A should have been in work status on 02/08/24. -Kitchen Aide (KA) F had onset of symptoms (Sore throat, headache, and exposure to two COVID-19 roommates) on 02/12/24. KA F last worked on 02/12/24. The surveillance does not indicate the time of onset of symptoms to determine if KA F worked with symptoms on 2/12/24. -Rehab G had onset of symptoms on 02/26/24. Rehab G last worked on 02/26/24. Rehab G tested COVID-19 positive on 02/27/24. The surveillance does not document time of onset of symptoms or if a Covid test was done on 2/26/24 to determine if Rehab G was working with symptoms on 2/26/24. -Patient Access (PA) H had onset of symptoms on 02/23/24. PA H last worked on 02/23/24. The time of onset of symptoms is not documented to determine if PA H worked with symptoms. On 04/24/24 at 7:42 AM, Surveyor interviewed Infection Preventionist (IP) I and asked what the process is and expectations for sick employees. IP I indicated the expectation is for staff to stay home and call Employee Health J if symptomatic. IP I indicated the facility supplies at-home kits for testing and goes off an honor system to establish if staff are positive or not. IP I indicated that staff are to not come to work sick. Surveyor asked IP I about the process for tracking surveillance of staff sicknesses. IP I indicated that IP I tracks the date of onset of symptoms, testing parameters, and then once established if positive or negative quarantine status is based on the CDC recommendations for returning to work. Surveyor asked IP I what the times were for onset of symptoms and type of symptoms for CNA C, CNA D, RN E, NHA A, KA F, Rehab G, and PA H on the day their symptoms started. IP I indicated IP I does not keep track of times of the onset of symptoms and sometimes the symptoms are not specified on the log sheet and that Surveyor would need to talk with Employee Health (EH) J. On 04/24/24 at 8:10 AM, Surveyor interviewed EH J and asked about the process for surveillance of staff infection. EH J indicated that EH J keeps track of employees' sickness the best EH J can. EH J indicated that sick employees submit an event in the Healthcare Safety Zone application electronically. Sick employees call EH J during business hours or call in and inform a leader who will submit this ticket after hours. EH J indicated the ticket populates in EH J's mailbox and EH J follows up on the submitted sick employee ticket. Surveyor asked EH J if the ticket has the time of onset of symptoms. EH J indicated the Healthcare Safety Zone application does not keep track of the time of the onset of symptoms. EH J indicated that EH J does not keep track of the time of the onset of symptoms. Surveyor asked EH J what the times were for onset of symptoms and type of symptoms for CNA C, CNA D, RN E, NHA A, KA F, Rehab G, and PA H on the day their symptoms started. EH J indicated that EH J cannot tell Surveyor any time frames on the days of onset of symptoms for the above staff as EH J does not keep track of times of the onset of symptoms and sometimes the symptoms are not specified on the log sheet if EH J did not submit the ticket. EH J indicated that EH J cannot tell Surveyor any time frames on the days of onset of symptoms for the 7 sick employees: CNA C, CNA D, RN E, NHA A, KA F, Rehab G, and PA H to determine if they were in work status with symptoms.
Apr 2023 1 deficiency
CONCERN (D)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Accident Prevention (Tag F0689)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, record review and interview, the facility did not provide adequate supervision to prevent accidents for 1 ...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, record review and interview, the facility did not provide adequate supervision to prevent accidents for 1 of 4 residents reviewed for falls (R27). Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) C and D left R27 unattended in bed with her bed in a high position and no mat on the floor during cares, when R27's care plan directs a low bed and mat on the floor. This is evidenced by: Surveyor reviewed R27's most recent Minimum Data Assessment (MDS) which was a quarterly dated 3/07/23. The MDS notes R27 is rarely understood, sometimes understands and is severely cognitively impaired. R27 has other behaviors of hitting or scratching self. R27 requires extensive assistance of one staff for bed mobility, dressing, eating and bathing. She is dependent on staff for transfer. R27 is always incontinent of bladder and bowel. R27's diagnoses included renal insufficiency, Alzheimer's disease and depression. R27 did not experience falls during this assessment review period. R27 takes an antipsychotic and antidepressant medication. Surveyor requested and reviewed R27's fall investigations since the facility's last survey and noted: ~3/17/22: 1:30 PM Stood up and fell down, unattended for short time in dining room. All staff reinserviced: do not leave unattended ~3/15/22: 210:40 PM: resident room, left side of bed, appeared to be crawling out of bed, bed alarm functioning, placed self to floor, history of falls. Current preventative measures: low bed, raised edge mattress, bed alarm, toileting schedule, call light in reach. Was incontinent of stool at the time. Placed on 15 minute checks between 2200 and 2300, take to bathroom if awake. No injury. Surveyor reviewed R27's most recent fall risk assessment dated [DATE] which notes the following risk factors: ~Mental status: poor recall, judgement and safety awareness, ~Impaired mobility ~1-2 predisposing disease/conditions Total score: 12 (10 or above indicates high risk for falling) R27's care plan notes: Need/Preference: 4/07/2021: I have the potential to fall down and hurt myself. Because I have dementia/Alzheimer's disease, decreased safety awareness. I show this by: I have fallen not being able to move around like I use to, have a history of getting anxious or agitated. I need everyone to: place the mat beside my bed when I am lying in bed. Bed to be in low position when I am in bed. On 4/04/23 at 7:47 AM, Surveyor observed CNA C and D assist R27 with morning care. CNA C and D prepared R27's care supplies and placed the supplies at bedside. CNA C removed R27's bedside mat and raised the height of her bed to a high position. CNA C and D performed incontinence care and washed and dressed R27 in bed. CNA D exited the room after assisting CNA C with rolling R27 in bed for care. CNA C stepped away from R27's bed 3 times to gather additional supplies and tidy R27's room. On one occasion CNA C went into R27's bathroom, emptied R27's basin, washed the basin, washed her hands and brushed R27's dentures. Surveyor observed R27's bed remained in the high position with R27 in bed tapping repeatedly at her chest and stomach with no staff at bedside. CNA C was in the bathroom with her back to R27 while she was in bed with the bed in high position and no mat on the floor at bedside. Surveyor asked CNA C if she was familiar with R27. CNA C indicated she has worked at the facility since October and works with R27 on a regular basis. Surveyor asked CNA C if R27 is at risk of falling or rolling out of bed. CNA C indicated R27 is at risk for rolling/falling from bed and staff need to keep an eye on her when her bed is up. R27's bed is in low position and she has a floor mat when staff are not in the room. On 4/04/2022 at 8:15 AM, Surveyor spoke with Registered Nurse (RN) E about the observation. RN E indicated she has worked at the facility 6 years and is familiar with R27. RN E expressed R27 is at risk for falls from bed. Her bed should be low and a mat should be on floor next to her bed due to her risk for falling. R27 should not left be left unattended at any point when her bed is raised. One staff person should stay at bedside or the bed should be lowered. R27 is more mobile at times and could easily roll from bed, Not safe. On 04/04/23 at 8:29 AM, Surveyor spoke with Director of Nursing (DON) B regarding the observation. DON B indicated staff should not leave anyone unsupervised in a raised bed, especially those residents at risk for falling, such as R27. Further indicating she would expect one staff to stay at bedside with resident or the bed to be lowered and bedside mat to be placed to keep resident safe if staff need to step away from the bed.
Understanding Severity Codes (click to expand)
Life-Threatening (Immediate Jeopardy)
J - Isolated K - Pattern L - Widespread
Actual Harm
G - Isolated H - Pattern I - Widespread
Potential for Harm
D - Isolated E - Pattern F - Widespread
No Harm (Minor)
A - Isolated B - Pattern C - Widespread

Questions to Ask on Your Visit

  • "Can I speak with families of current residents?"
  • "What's your RN coverage like on weekends and overnight?"

Our Honest Assessment

Strengths
  • • Grade B+ (85/100). Above average facility, better than most options in Wisconsin.
  • • No fines on record. Clean compliance history, better than most Wisconsin facilities.
Concerns
  • • 5 deficiencies on record, including 1 serious (caused harm) violation. Ask about corrective actions taken.
Bottom line: Generally positive indicators. Standard due diligence and a personal visit recommended.

About This Facility

What is Water'S Edge's CMS Rating?

CMS assigns WATER'S EDGE an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars, which is considered much above average nationally. Within Wisconsin, this rating places the facility higher than 99% of the state's 100 nursing homes. This rating reflects solid performance across the metrics CMS uses to evaluate nursing home quality.

How is Water'S Edge Staffed?

CMS rates WATER'S EDGE's staffing level at 5 out of 5 stars, which is much above average compared to other nursing homes. Staff turnover is 47%, compared to the Wisconsin average of 46%.

What Have Inspectors Found at Water'S Edge?

State health inspectors documented 5 deficiencies at WATER'S EDGE during 2023 to 2025. These included: 1 that caused actual resident harm and 4 with potential for harm. Deficiencies causing actual harm indicate documented cases where residents experienced negative health consequences.

Who Owns and Operates Water'S Edge?

WATER'S EDGE is owned by a non-profit organization. Non-profit facilities reinvest revenue into operations rather than distributing to shareholders. The facility operates independently rather than as part of a larger chain. With 50 certified beds and approximately 38 residents (about 76% occupancy), it is a smaller facility located in HAYWARD, Wisconsin.

How Does Water'S Edge Compare to Other Wisconsin Nursing Homes?

Compared to the 100 nursing homes in Wisconsin, WATER'S EDGE's overall rating (5 stars) is above the state average of 3.0, staff turnover (47%) is near the state average of 46%, and health inspection rating (4 stars) is above the national benchmark.

What Should Families Ask When Visiting Water'S Edge?

Based on this facility's data, families visiting should ask: "Can I visit during a mealtime to observe dining assistance and food quality?" "How do you handle medical emergencies, and what is your hospital transfer rate?" "Can I speak with family members of current residents about their experience?"

Is Water'S Edge Safe?

Based on CMS inspection data, WATER'S EDGE has a clean safety record: no substantiated abuse findings (meaning no confirmed cases of resident harm), no Immediate Jeopardy citations (the most serious violation level indicating risk of serious injury or death), and is not on the Special Focus Facility watch list (a federal program monitoring the lowest-performing 1% of nursing homes). The facility has a 5-star overall rating and ranks #1 of 100 nursing homes in Wisconsin. While no facility is perfect, families should still ask about staff-to-resident ratios and recent inspection results during their visit.

Do Nurses at Water'S Edge Stick Around?

WATER'S EDGE has a staff turnover rate of 47%, which is about average for Wisconsin nursing homes (state average: 46%). Moderate turnover is common in nursing homes, but families should still ask about staff tenure and how the facility maintains care continuity when employees leave.

Was Water'S Edge Ever Fined?

WATER'S EDGE has no federal fines on record. CMS issues fines when nursing homes fail to meet care standards or don't correct problems found during inspections. The absence of fines suggests the facility has either maintained compliance or corrected any issues before penalties were assessed. This is a positive indicator, though families should still review recent inspection reports for the full picture.

Is Water'S Edge on Any Federal Watch List?

WATER'S EDGE is not on any federal watch list. The most significant is the Special Focus Facility (SFF) program, which identifies the bottom 1% of nursing homes nationally based on persistent, serious quality problems. Not being on this list means the facility has avoided the pattern of deficiencies that triggers enhanced federal oversight. This is a positive indicator, though families should still review the facility's inspection history directly.