Complaint Investigation Report

It was alleged that, Facility staff inappropriately restrain resident.

Based on interviews with staff (S1, S2) and Program Director, a harness and hand restraint were used for C1 during transportation from and to their residency. Program Director stated that the use of the harness and hand restraint has been used for transportation since before they became the Program Director. LPA asked why they are used, Program Director stated that C1 has a habit of biting themselves and trying to remove their seat belt during transportation. Program Director stated that the harness is left on C1 throughout the time at program, but their hands are not in the restraints. S1 stated that when C1 is picked up from their residency they have the harness on, once C1 is in the facility van staff place C1 hands into a side hand restraint and they are left on for about 15 minutes then removed once they arrival at program. S1 ensured LPA that the hand restraints are not too tight but tight enough to make sure C1 does not get out during the ride, S1 also stated that staff make sure the restraint is loose enough to not harm C1 wrists. S2 stated that sometimes C1 did not need to use the hand restraints on the way to their residency unless they had a behavior prior to drop offs. LPA asked how does C1 act during their behavior. S2 stated that C1 bites themselves and shows aggression while biting themselves as evidence by pulling their skin. S2 stated that they have observed that C1 being hungry and/or constipated seems to trigger behaviors, S2 makes sure they have snacks available for C1 during program to ensure they do not have a behavior. LPA was informed that the facility no longer uses the harness and hand restraint for C1.

Based on LPAs interviews and record reviews, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met, therefore the above allegations are found to be SUBSTANTIATED . California Code of Regulations (Title 22, Division 6, Chapter 8), are being cited on the attached LIC 9099D.

Exit interview conducted and a copy of this report provided along with appeal rights.