Complaint Investigation Report

R1s primary physician (DR) was interviewed, as well as R1s hospice provider registered nurse (W1). The hospice medical records for R1 were obtained. Both the DR and W1 affirmed R1s mental state may be a factor in the allegation disclosures by R1. Facility staff were interviewed, as well as S1, who denied the allegations. There were no other staff present in the home when the alleged abuse occurred. The investigation for the allegations of physical and sexual abuse will be closed as unsubstantiated at this time.

For the allegation of facility did not provide hygiene supplies, RP states that they have visited R1 in the past, and noticed there were no paper towels in R1s bathroom and asked staff for paper towels but was told 'there are none'.

The Department conducted a visit last 3/10/2022. LPA observed 3 bathrooms. Bathroom #1 is used for visitors and staff, LPA observed paper towels and hand soap. Bathroom #2 is not used. The bathroom was empty. Bathroom #3 is used only by R3, LPA observed paper towels and hand soap there. LPA requested to see the stock of supplies. LPA also observed 2 medium sized bottles of hand soap and ¼ hand soap left in a large container. LPA also observed two small rolls of paper towels. LPA was taken to the garage and a nearby office where LPA observed approximately 8 boxes of gloves, approximately 7 small bottles of hand sanitizer, 2 small bottles of hand soap, various packages of diapers and some wipes. LPA asked staff member, S3, what the facility policy is when staff run out of hygiene items- S3 stated that there is another facility ten minutes away where they can obtain items from and they can also call the Administrators who can bring some. S3 indicated that they all have been informed to request more items when needed.

Regarding the allegation of facility did not ensure face masks were available to visitors, RP stated that when they visited they asked for a mask, but RP was told 'there are none'.

LPA requested to see the stock of masks, S3 could not find any. S3 stated that due to a COVID outbreak at another facility, the Administrators took PPE to that facility. S3 also stated that staff bring their own masks. LPA asked what staff do if a visitor does not have a mask, S3 indicated that they can provide one for the visitors, but there were no extra masks to provide. LPA asked what the facility policy was if a visitor arrives without a mask. S3 stated that this has not occurred yet, but that the facility would provide a mask for them.

Regarding the allegation of Licensee did not comply with reporting requirements, RP stated that S1 did not notify Licensing or Law Enforcement of this incident.

LPA asked S3 about S3s knowledge of CCLD reporting requirements if S3 knew what a mandated reporter was, S3 demonstrated understanding. S3 stated that most paperwork is handled by the facility Administrators.

Based on interviews, observations and records review, the department has determined that 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.