Complaint Investigation Report

Regarding the allegation: Staff did not prevent clients from using illegal drugs. It is alleged that the assisted living facility staff are not stopping clients from using illegal drugs in the facility. Eight (8) out of eight (8) staff interviewed deny this allegation. Staff stated the facility is an assisted living arrangement with independent adults. The facility does not provide 1:1 service to the clients. Staff can only direct and re-direct the clients’ behaviors. The house rules clearly states, “No Smoking”, and ABSOLUTELY NO Drugs and Alcohol are allowed on the premises. The clients are constantly reminded by staff to smoke cigarettes outside in smoking designated areas, with “No Smoking” signs posted around the facility. Staff acknowledge, clients that use illegal drugs, get high in private, away from the facility and returned to the facility intoxicated. When staff smell funny smoke, they investigate. When clients are caught with illegal substances an internal investigation is conducted and reported to local police and licensing. Staff encourages clients with drug use the Impact Services to help clients with their drug use and issues. Seven (7) out of nine (9) clients interviewed stated they are aware of other clients using illegal drugs, from the smell outside on the sidewalk and alleyways. The drugs are used in private, hidden from the staff away from facility. Residents acknowledge breaking house rules could cause eviction and have strong cravings. Clients acknowledge the Impact Services for drug rehab offered by the facility. Based on record review, interviews conducted, and observations made. 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 unsubstantiated.

Regarding the allegation: Staff did not prevent clients from engaging in inappropriate behaviors. It is alleged that the facility staff are not stopping clients from acting with non-conforming behaviors. It is alleged that clients are eating off the floor and staff is encouraging the behavior. Eight (8) out of eight (8) staff interviewed deny this allegation. Staff stated the clients that engage in inappropriate behaviors are monitored and actions of the clients are noted in clients progress reports. The staff directs and sometimes need to re-direct challenging clients from engaging inappropriate and harmful behaviors. Eight (8) out of nine (9) clients interviewed could not corroborate this allegation. Four (4) clients interviewed stated clients occasionally make loud noises and say strange comments, the staff intervenes and re-directs. Based on record review, interviews conducted, and observations made. 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 unsubstantiated.