Complaint Investigation Report

The maintenance staff also stated that the laundry machines are sometimes unplugged by the clients or that the washers take a little bit longer to start up, however, they are not malfunctioned. Per staff, they will put up a note indicating when the machines are out of order. LPA interviewed a total of 15 clients, and 4 out of the 15 stated that the washer and/or dryer are not working at this time. Majority of the clients stated that when the washers or dryers break down, they will report it to the staff and the machines will be fixed in a timely manner. There are other machines available for use as they are being repaired. LPA toured all the laundry areas in the building and the machines appear to be working. Some of the machines were being used and there were no notes indicating any of them out of order.

For allegation - Staff yell at client(s) in care. Based on interviews conducted with Staff, they do not yell at clients. They treat them with respect and need to be firm with them at times. They stated they have not observed any other staff yelling at clients, but rather, clients yell at them. LPA interviewed 15 clients and all of them stated that the staff do not yell at them or other clients. Some stated that the staff treat them with respect and are firm with clients when they get out of hand. During the visit today, LPA observed a client screaming at the kitchen aide and demanding more coffee. The staff attempted to explain, but the client's anger continue to escalate. The assistant administrator immediately intervened and calm the client.

For allegation - Facility does not have enough staff to meet the needs of clients in care. It is alleged there is not enough staffing and have clients working. Per Staff interviewed, they denied having clients work at the facility. They stated that some clients volunteer to wipe down the tables or mop the floors. There are no clients residing at the facility who requires assistance with their activities of daily living (ADLs), such as dressing, bathing, or eating. The clients are pretty self-sufficient with exception to medication management. They supervise often and provide assistance upon request. 6 out of the 7 Staff interviewed feel there is sufficient staffing to meet the needs of the clients. They have coverage when a staff calls out ill. One feels the facility needs more staff since there are so many clients at the facility. 4 out of the 15 clients interviewed do not feel there is adequate staffing to monitor and meet their needs. Two stated there is not enough staff particularly in housekeeping. They are not able to get additional supplies when requested. Some of the clients, who have observed other clients helping out in the kitchen, have stated they volunteered and not told to do so by the staff. Based on the information gathered, there is insufficient evidence to support this allegation.

Although the allegations may have happened or are valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violations did or did not occur, therefore the allegations are UNSUBSTANTIATED.

An exit interview was conducted with Andrew De Vera. A copy of this report along with the appeal rights were provided.