Complaint Investigation Report

(Continued form LIC9099) Allegation: Staff confiscated resident's personal item. Regarding the allegation it was reported that staff confiscated client #1’s (C1’s) special scissors. LPAs interview with C1 revealed they purchased arts and craft scissors and kept the scissors on them and in their bedroom. When they would go missing R1 would purchase more scissors. R1 suspects staff took three (03) sets of scissors and stored them in a locked closet on the ground level. LPA’s interview three (03) out of three (03) staff confirmed scissors were confiscated for clients’ safety. According to one (01) staff, C1 was informed staff locked the scissors and if they asked for them, they could use scissors with supervision. Interview with C1’s 1:1, staff #3 (S3) also confirmed scissors were taken away and a discussion regarding the scissors was had with C1. LPA observed S2 remove four (04) craft scissors and one (01) regular scissor from a closet that is maintained locked. LPA’s review of facility‘s Sharp Safe Policy, states not verbatim, items such as scissors will be locked up and if client requisites safety skills they can use them with staff supervision. Based on interviews and review of the facility program although the items were confiscated the facility’s safety policy regarding sharps the items had to be removed and made inaccessible to clients. Therefore, this allegation is deemed Unsubstantiated at this time.

Allegation: Staff threw away resident's personal food. Regarding the allegation it was reported that staff constantly throw away R1’s food. LPA’s interview with R1 on 01/22/2025 affirmed the allegation stating cream cheese and toast they purchased was gone. LPA inquired about the freshness of the food C1 reported they freeze food if they are not able to finish it before expiration date and will eat items that are expiring first. During tour of C1’s room LPA observed food on top of C1’s furniture. Interview with three (03) out of three (03) staff revealed the food they throw out is rotten. According to S1 during a visit conducted by North Los Angeles County Regional Center representative they informed staff expired and spoiled food must be thrown out as it is a health and safety concern for C1. According to one (01) staff, C1 becomes aggressive when staff attempt to throw out spoiled food so they have to wait for R1 to be away and take pictures of the food before staff is instructed to throw it out. Interview with the Licensee corroborates staff are instructed to throw out old food and the rule is to let C1 know the food was thrown out by staff. LPA’s review of C1’s quarterly progress report conducted by the facility documents a history of issues relating to spoiled food. Based on LPA’s observation, interview and review of records the allegation is deemed Unsubstantiated at this time.

No deficiencies cited. Exit interview conducted. Copy of report signed and provided.