Complaint Investigation Report

It was alleged that a client was improperly isolated and sent home from day program, violating their personal rights. Based on interviews, Client #1 (C1, refer to list of confidential names) was isolated on August 26, 2021 while facility staff attempted to determine the timeline of the COVID-19 infection or close contact. Based on interviews with facility staff, the client’s close contact with their family member was irresolute. There were inconsistent statements as to the close contact, in which the family member denied that the client was within six feet of the affected individual therefore, a diagnostic test was not conducted. Furthermore, the client was not presenting with symptoms of COVID-19, e.g. fever, coughing, sneezing, etc. COVID-19 response testing for Adult Day Program participants are not mandatory. The client was subsequently sent home from the day program. The client’s immunization record was also reviewed regarding the requirement for testing of fully or not fully vaccinated persons. Based on C1’s vaccination status, lack of a positive COVID-19 diagnostic, no COVID-19 symptoms, and close contact could not be established, it was determined that this allegation is substantiated because the preponderance of the evidence standard has been met.

It was alleged that C1 was improperly discharged from the Day Program. Review of e-mail exchanges between the family member and facility staff on August 30, 2021 confirmed C1 was discharged from the day program and was given an end date of September 24, 2021. Based on interviews, the facility can continue to meet C1’s needs, as well as, there were no changes in C1’s medical condition that would have rendered C1 unable to participate in the program. The facility did not document a reassessment of the client’s needs. Therefore, this allegation is substantiated because the preponderance of the evidence standard has been met and the facility did not properly discharge the client based on being able to meet their needs.

Citations are being issued in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 22, and listed on the 9099D. Plans of Corrections were developed with the Administrator. An exit interview was conducted. A copy of this report and Appeal Rights (9058 01/16) were provided to the administrator, whose signature on this form confirms receipt of these documents.