Complaint Investigation Report

Licensee advised Hospital that the current Hospice Nurse assigned to R1 would not be allowed to come into the facility because Licensee felt that the Hospice Nurse was not wearing full proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and was exposed to COVID-19. The investigation determined that the Hospice Nurse is a Licensed Skilled Professional and is trained on proper Donning and Doffing procedures. LPA was unable to obtain evidence that the Hospice Nurse was not properly donning or that they had a direct exposure to Covid-19 which would prevent them from entering the facility. Investigation confirmed that there was no indication that the nurse who was well trained on proper PPE use including donning and doffing or confirmed concern over the hospice nurse posing any COVID exposure risk. Licensee requested a different Hospice Nurse from the Hospital, which left R1 at the hospital for an additional day awaiting to be discharged back to the facility until licensee agreed to take R1 at 06:00 AM the next morning.

Based on interviews, records reviewed, LPA observations that were conducted, the allegation of Facility Abandoned resident is Substantiated. The preponderance of evidence standard has been met and the above allegation is SUBSTANTIATED. Deficiencies cited from the California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 6 of California Regulation. Exit interview conducted and appeal rights were given. Failure to correct the deficiency and/or repeat deficiencies within a 12-month period may result in civil penalties.