Complaint Investigation Report

Interviews with three (3) out of four (4) clients indicated that staff consistently remind and encourage them to take showers and get ready. None of these clients raised concerns about the portions or variety of food provided. One client was unavailable for an interview during the visits. A review of shower logs from May 1 to July 31, 2024, showed that each client received showers at least once a day. Additionally, interviews with two Quality Assurance Specialists (QAS) from Tri-Counties Regional Center (TCRC) revealed that they have visited the home multiple times and have never seen any clients who appeared un-showered or unkempt due to staff neglect. The QAS also reported that they have never observed a lack of food supply in the home, and no clients have raised concerns about food portions during their visits. Furthermore, the QAS did not identify any immediate or potential issues regarding staff meeting the needs of clients at this time. Based on the information obtained during the investigation, the Department does not have sufficient evidence to corroborate the allegation. Although the allegation may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violations did or did not occur, therefore the above allegation, “Staff are not meeting the resident care needs” is deemed Unsubstantiated at this time.

It was reported that "Staff did not provide medical attention in a timely manner", as it was alleged that staff did not bring C1 to the hospital in a timely manner. Interviews and record reviews indicated that on the morning of June 15, 2024, C1 went home to their family, who noticed an excessive buildup of ear wax. The family informed the Administrator about this concern and requested that a medical appointment be made. C1 returned to the facility on the evening of June 15, did not complain of any pain, and staff did not observe any excessive ear wax. The Administrator stated that the appointment was scheduled for July 1st , however, on June 18, the family contacted the Administrator for an update regarding C1’s earache. In response, the Administrator picked up C1 from their day program and took C1 to a local medical center. The Administrator informed the family at 2:00 p.m. that C1 was prescribed an antibiotic and ibuprofen for pain if needed. Interviews with three out of four clients in care revealed that none of them expressed concerns about staff not providing timely medical attention. One client was unavailable for an interview during the visits. Additionally, interviews with two Quality Assurance Specialists (QAS) from Tri-Counties Regional Center (TCRC) confirmed that they have visited the home multiple times and also do not have concerns regarding the timeliness of medical attention provided by staff. Based on the information obtained during the investigation, the Department does not have sufficient evidence to corroborate the allegation.