Complaint Investigation Report

Allegation: Facility is unable to provide power during a power outage to residents.

It is reported that facility is unable to provide power during a power outage to residents. Regarding this allegation, it is reported that during a recent power outage the facility did not have an emergency plan to provide power due to not having a back up generator. It is further reported that residents had to resort to taking the stairs to other floors instead of the elevator due to the facility failing to provide power. LPA interviewed Administrator who stated that the power outage only lasted about an hour or so and that facility staff were on alert going room to room to check on residents. During this time Administrator states that there were no reports of residents being in distress or having any major concerns with the power being out. Furthermore, Administrator states that there are backup generators that automatically turn on when the power goes out, allowing for necessary appliances to have power such as refrigerators and computers. Administrator explained that during this time essential equipment was backed up but that when power was restored about an hour later, everything requiring power was fully functional. Administrator also explained that residents with oxygen needs were also provided assistance with portable oxygen tanks, and/or individual power banks for providing electricity to oxygen tanks. It was also stated by Administrator that the activities room was provided with additional power in case residents needed to charge cellphones or additional items. Administrator states that residents on the second floor who wished to go to the first floor were transported via the evacuation chair and vice versa. LPA interviewed Plant Operations Manager (POM) who confirmed that power was only out for an hour or so due to Spectrum Internet company cutting a power cable causing an outage to the surrounding area, something beyond the facilities control. However, POM stated that the back up generators are fully functioning and provided power to essential appliances. LPA interviewed four (4) additional staff members who stated that they went to all resident rooms to make sure that the residents’ needs were being met. Additionally, staff stated that they gave primary attention to residents on oxygen. During facility tour LPA was shown backup generators and logs of maintenance. LPA interviewed eleven (11) out of eighty-eight (88) residents. All eleven (11) residents reported that they were not significantly affected by the outage and had no major concerns. None of the interviewed residents expressed safety issues or distress related to the temporary power loss. The facility demonstrated that backup systems were in place and functioning, and staff took appropriate measures to ensure resident safety during the outage. Therefore, based on observation, interview and record reviews this allegation is deemed unsubstantiated.