Complaint Investigation Report

Regarding the allegation, "Staff verbally threatens clients," it was alleged that staff threaten clients during their lunch period to procure lunches for personal possession.

Interviews with Facility staff revealed that staff unanimously agree that they have not seen other staff taking lunches nor have they seen other staff eating food with clients without permission. Staff 2 (S2) stated that clients will offer to share their food with staff without the need of threats. Staff 1 (S1) described the morning routine for clients which involves clients handing off lunches to program staff when they first arrive or if they are independent enough, clients will put away lunches themselves. When lunchtime occurs, facility staff will help clients with their lunches through the use of appliances to help warm up meals, by helping feed them, and by cleaning up clients and dishes after they've eaten.

Interviews with clients revealed that Client 1 (C1) has seen one staff member eat food during the program lunch period. When questioned about clients threatened with suspension, C1 told the LPA, "no it is not true that people threaten suspension." C1 told the LPA that they are not allowed to buy snacks or share food with others at the program and that makes them sad. LPA notes, this was an agreement that C1 has consented to with the day program, their social worker, and their home residence.

LPA observations revealed that clients of the program line up before lunch time and help to create pathways for clients with walkers and wheelchairs. Staff participate with clients in a friendly and non threatening manner meaning staff are smiling, encouraging good behaviors, and helping clients as needed. Staff will help pass out lunches brought from home to the appropriate client. LPA observed staff eating their own lunches in shifts as clients were eating theirs to ensure all clients are watched and helped. There were no times when clients were not helped by staff during lunch period. There were no threats to clients, no stealing of client lunches, or inappropriate regulatory practices the LPA observed during the forty (40) minute lunch period.

Based on interviews and direct LPA observations, a preponderance of evidence does not exist to prove that the alleged violations occurred, therefore the allegations are UNSUBSTANTIATED. An exit interview was conducted with Program Director, Claudia Munoz, to whom a copy of this report and the Licensee/Appeal Rights (LIC9058 03/22) were provided.