From time to time I have seen plans of correction which essentially do nothing but deny every violation listed in the survey report. If you see something like this you should ask yourself if the home seems to be taking this process seriously. I would steer clear of any home which basically denies each citation. The plan of correction should list specific, measurable actions the home is taking to resolve the problems found by the Department of Health. You should compare survey reports from different homes by reading each report thoroughly.
Some citations are obviously more serious than others.
For example, having dusty or dirty floor tiles is not as dangerous as having nurses make errors dispensing medicaiton or finding residents with pressure sores or contractures from a lack of care. Analyze each home's survey report as a whole and compare it with the other two or three homes you are considering. After reviewing each home's survey report go back and visit each home unannounced. If possible, set aside at least two hours for your visit and include observation of the lunch or dinner meal. Take a tour of the home on your own and use all of your senses to observe the care being given.