Complaint Investigation Report

The allegation of “Staff are unable to communicate with residents.” alleges that facility staff are unable to assist residents due to them not understanding English. LPA interviewed the facility Administrator who stated that the facility always has English speaking staff on site. The Administrator stated that there are a couple of staff members who are able to understand English but are not proficient in speaking English. The Administrator confirmed that an English speaking staff member is always present with these staff while they are on shift. LPA interviewed seven (7) facility residents. All residents interviewed stated that staff are able to communicate with them and understand their needs. One (1) resident stated that if there is ever a communication misunderstanding another staff member will step in to assist. No residents interviewed have had issues receiving care due to a language barrier. LPA interviewed one (1) staff member, staff #1 (S1) who worked the overnight shift at the facility. S1 was fluent in English and understood the proper reporting procedures for incidents involving residents. LPA interviewed five (5) total staff. Four (4) staff spoke English fluently and one (1) staff was able to understand English. LPA interviewed two (2) witnesses. One (1) witness interviewed, witness #1 (W1) reported “minor” communication issues with staff but reported that staff are mostly consistent. Witness #2 (W2) did not report having issues communicating with staff. Although the allegation may have happened or is valid there is insufficient evidence to support the allegation of, “Staff are unable to communicate with residents.” Therefore, the allegation is deemed Unsubstantiated at this time.

The allegation of “Staff did not seek timely medical attention for resident.” alleges that the facility did not seek medical attention for a resident after a medical emergency. LPA interviewed seven (7) facility residents. All residents interviewed reported that staff are quick to respond to calls for assistance. One (1) resident interviewed, resident #1 (R1) reported that the facility is quick to give medical attention during an emergency. R1 also reported that 911 was called during a recent incident right away. LPA interviewed the Administrator who stated that all facility staff are trained to respond to incidents involving residents immediately. The Administrator informed LPA that staff are notified of incidents via the facility-wide intercom system. LPA interviewed five (5) total staff. All staff interviewed stated that they are trained by the facility Administrator to respond to incidents immediately. LPA interviewed two (2) witnesses. Both witnesses interviewed had no concerns with the facility seeking timely medical attention for the residents. Although the allegation may have happened or is valid there is insufficient evidence to support the allegation of “Staff did not seek timely medical attention for resident.” Therefore, the allegation is deemed Unsubstantiated at this time.