Complaint Investigation Report

Licensee Baby Quintero, stated she did not wait one hour to call 911 to report the resident missing. Licensee stated it was probably 30 minutes because she and her staff went around the neighborhood looking for the resident first. Title 22 Regulations does not have time limits to call for emergency services; however, this resident has a diagnosis of dementia and per the physician, this resident was unable to leave the facility unattended and was found about four blocks away unharmed. Because the Licensee waited before calling emergency services the allegation is substantiated.

When LPAs arrived at the facility and was waiting for someone to answer the front door, LPAs observed a sound like something was being moved from in front of the front door. Upon entering the front door LPAs observed two chairs placed directly to the left of the front door which put them behind the open door. LPAs asked the caregiver who answered the front door what the chairs were for and the caregiver admitted to blocking the front door with the chairs to prevent the residents from leaving through the front door. Licensee Baby Quintero, also stated she had the chairs placed in front of the door along with a can so the staff can hear the chairs and can being moved so they can get to the residents before the residents are able to open the front door. LPAs also observed a wood rod placed in the sliding glass door to prevent it from opening. This is a fiire safety violation. This is a $500.00 immediate civil penalty for blocking exits.

As a result of this investigation, the Department finds the allegations above to be Substantiated. A finding that the complaint is Substantiated means that the allegations are valid because the preponderance of the evidence standard has been met. Deficiencies cited on the LIC 9099-D, per Title 22 Regulations. A total of $1000.00 Immediate Civil Penalties Assessed during today's visit.

Exit interview conducted. A copy of the report has been issued. Appeal Rights provided. Failure to correct the deficiencies may result in Civil penalties being assessed.