Complaint Investigation Report

On the allegation: Staff inappropriately touched residents. It was alleged that Staff #1 (S1) hugged and scratched Client #1’s (C1) arm around Thanksgiving 2021. C1 communicated to S1 that C1 did not want to be hugged and said no. Interviews revealed that C1 made a remark that staff heard C1 make a remark for S1 not to touch C1. Different accounts of the incidents were provided in which S1 patted C1 or S1 hugged C1 with one arm over C1’s shoulder and scratched C1’s on the inside of the right arm above the elbow. LPA and QAS observed a small red mark on C1’s arm during an interview. Based on interviews, there is sufficient evidence in which S1 made physical contact with C1 and resulted in C1 being scratched. The allegation “Staff inappropriately touched residents” is deemed Substantiated at this time.

On the allegation: Staff did not treat resident with dignity. It was alleged that S1 body blocked Client #2 (C2). LPA Luong’s interviews revealed that video footage existed in which C2 went to answer the door and S1 allegedly body blocked C2 on 12/01/2021. Staff interviews revealed that clients are capable of answering the door but may require supervision. The facility promotes the clients’ ability to function independently and be able to complete tasks. Another staff was present during the incident but did not witness the body block.

LPA reviewed video footage obtained from the facility. The video is 12 seconds in length. At the 4 second mark, C2 is seen moving from the couch towards the door. S1 is seen leaving from the kitchen and moving towards the door at same time C2 is moving towards the door. At the 6-7 second mark, S1 and C2 reach for the doorknob, but C2 is observed stumbling back 2-3 steps before the door is opened by S1. Based on interviews and observation, S1 blocked C2 from answering the door which resulted in C2 being knocked back. The allegation “Staff did not treat resident with dignity” is deemed Substantiated at this time.

Pursuant to Title 22, California Code of Regulations, the following deficiency is cited (refer to LIC 9099-D).

Exit interview conducted, appeal rights discussed, and a copy of this report issued.