Complaint Investigation Report

Allegation: Resident is being physically abused while in care. Staff 1-2 (S1-S2), witness (W1), and resident 1-5 (R1-R5) interviewed stated residents are treated with dignity and respect. S1-S2 stated the facility has a zero-tolerance policy. Physical abuse is not allowed. S1-S2, W1, and R1-R5 stated none of the residents got struck in the back of the head, nor did any resident get hit in the back of the head and slapped in the face while they were sleeping. S1-S2 and R1-R5 stated there was a resident residing at the facility that is no longer living at the facility that was delusional and hallucinating and would have loud outbursts, yelling, and screaming, saying someone hit her in the head when no one witnessed the incident. The facility staff took the necessary precaution and examined the resident for injuries or bruises. The resident had no injury. S1-S2, W1, and R1-R5 stated residents are provided with a safe, healthful, and comfortable environment. Residents are free from corporal or unusual punishment, infliction of pain, humiliation, intimidation, ridicule, coercion, threat, mental abuse, or other actions of a punitive nature. S1-S2, W1, and R1-R5 denied the allegation.

Investigation revealed the following: Staff 1-2 (S1-2), witness 1 (W1), and residents 1-5 (R1-R5) interviewed stated no one witnessed any resident getting struck in the back of the head. S1-S2 stated as per the facility's policy, staff has expressed a strict zero tolerance towards physical abuse. It has been confirmed by staff and residents that no instances occurred where any residents were struck in the back of the head or subjected to being hit and slapped in the face while asleep. S1-S2 stated that no other residents reported any injuries or bruises resulting from any physical altercations. S1-S2 stated the facility is fully staffed and treats all residents with dignity and respect. S1-S2 stated residents are provided with the necessary care and supervision. S1-S2 stated if there was any physical abuse, they would have investigated the incident and reported it to all the appropriate agencies in a timely manner. S1-S2 and R1-R5 all denied the allegations.

Based on interviews, available evidence, observation, information received, and records reviewed there was not enough sufficient evidence to support the allegation. Although the allegation may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violation did or did not occur, therefore the allegation is deemed unsubstantiated.

A copy of the Complaint Investigation Report LIC9099, and LIC9099-C, was provided to Administrator Crystal Barrientos. There were no deficiencies cited. Exit interview conducted.