Complaint Investigation Report

The allegation of “Staff did not secure knives/sharp objects making them accessible to residents” alleges that facility staff do not properly secure knives and other sharp objects from clients in care. During the physical plant tour LPA Byrne asked facility Staff #1 (S1) where knives are stored in the kitchen. S1 directed LPA to a drawer where knives, scissors, and other utensils were stored. At 02:05 PM LPA observed a locking mechanism on the drawer that was broken and failed to properly secure the drawer. LPA interviewed Administrator and S1 and asked when they noticed the drawer lock was broken. Both the Administrator and S1 stated that they did not notice until today (10/22/2024). During the visit facility staff replaced the locking mechanism. LPA confirmed that the drawer now properly latches making its contents inaccessible to clients in care. Based on the information obtained during the physical plant tour and interviews there is sufficient evidence to support the allegation of Staff did not secure knives/sharp objects making them accessible to residents. Therefore, the allegation is deemed Substantiated at this time.

The allegation of “Staff locked refrigerator” alleges that facility staff secure the contents of the facility’s refrigerator making its contents unavailable to clients in care. During the physical plant tour LPA observed the facility refrigerator to contain a child proofing device on the left side. S1 opened the refrigerator and LPA observed foods, drinks, condiments, and snacks inside. LPA interviewed Administrator and S1 and asked the reasoning for the refrigerator being secured. S1 did not know the reason for the fridge being secured. The Administrator stated that the facility had a resident in the past that would enter the kitchen and try to cook, although the Administrator confirmed that the resident no longer resides at the facility and there is no current reason to keep the refrigerator secured. The Administrator agreed to remove the lock from the side of the refrigerator. Based on the information obtained during the physical plant tour and interviews there is sufficient evidence to support the allegation of Staff locked refrigerator. Therefore, the allegation is deemed Substantiated at this time.