Complaint Investigation Report

At approximately 2:00 p.m. LPA interviewed staff #3(S3), client #4(C4), and attempted to interview C1’s, Service Coordinator from North Los Angeles County Regional Center (NLACRC).

Allegation #1: Staff did not allow resident to leave the facility premises. Regarding the allegation it was reported that administrator “Dolly” did not allow client#1(C1) to leave the facility on 10/02/2024. LPA's interview with C1 revealed that prior to 10/02/2024 they had to go to the emergency room because their blood sugar was high but once the nurse informed C1 they needed an IV to reduce their blood sugar level, C1 states, they refused and left. C1 states staff used that as an excuse to not allow C1 to go to the pool. C1 states they were feeling fine and preferred physical activity rather than the IV to reduce blood sugar level. LPA’s interview with three (3) staff that handle client's medication and work with C1 on a 1 to 1 basis deny the allegation. Three (3) staff stated they do not forbid clients from leaving the facility or have witnessed staff not allow clients to leave the facility. According to S1, C1 can communicate where they want to go and is driven to outings and appointments. Interview with the licensee and the administrator revealed that on 10/02/2024 they did not deny C1 the ability to leave the facility but expressed concerned about C1’s blood sugar level reading and communicated to C1 that they did not support C1’s decision to leave the facility without addressing their glucose level first. Administrator states they had explained to C1 that hospital staff had expressed disbelief that C1 was able to walk given their high glucose level. According to the administrator they had a conversation with C1’s service coordinator who informed them, C1 has the right to leave the facility if they choose to. Administrator states C1 arranged transportation with ride service company and left the facility refusing 1:1 to accompany them. Interview with S3 revealed they asked C1 if they wanted them to go with them, but C1 told them to stay behind at the facility. C1 denies S3 was allowed to go with them. Interview with C4 denies the allegation, having no issues with leaving the facility. LPA's review of C1’s medication revealed they have refused at least one daily medication for managing amount of sugar in the blood prior 10/02/2024 and after. C1 records also indicate sugar levels remain high. C1's IPP reports they are medication - noncompliance. Based on interviews and record review this allegation is deemed UNSUBSTANTIATED as C1 left the facility willingly on 10/02/2024 even when advised by a medical professional that glucose level was high.