Complaint Investigation Report

It was alleged that staff interfered with resident’s medical procedure. It was reported that facility staff prohibited resident from conducting their colonoscopy preparation in the home. Record reviews and interviews conducted revealed that Resident #1 (R1) had a colonoscopy scheduled for the second week of April 2024. Resident notes dated 04/13/2024 indicated that R1 had informed facility staff that the procedure was stopped because the medication needed for preparation was not effective. Additionally, R1 was staying with a family member during the preparation period from 04/08/2024 to 04/13/2024, so the facility staff was unable to assist or intervene with the procedure preparation. Furthermore, R1 successfully completed the colonoscopy procedure on 07/02/2024 after facility staff helped R1 prepare by ensuring they consumed the correct foods. Based on the information obtained and reviewed, the Department has insufficient evidence to support the allegation of “staff interfered with resident’s medical procedure”. Therefore, this allegation is deemed Unsubstantiated at this time.

It was also alleged that staff is forcing residents to attend community programs. It was reported that residents did not get to choose the day program to attend and are being sent out of the home into the community. Records review of R1's notes, dated 03/04/2024, revealed that R1 did not attend the day program on that day. However, R1 had planned an outing to spend time with their friend and have fun. Interviews with staff indicated that the facility encourages residents to engage in community activities and supports all outings the residents choose to participate in. Staff stated that, on many occasions, residents may refuse to go out into the community or participate in outings. However, they are never forced to participate, as residents have the right to choose their activities. Additionally, staff added that residents choose to have outings every weekend, providing them the opportunity to spend time together. Further interviews with residents revealed that they enjoy attending their current day program, noting that it offers more activities than the previous one. Based on interviews conducted with facility staff and residents, the Department has insufficient evidence to support the allegation of “staff is forcing residents to attend community programs”. Therefore, this allegation deemed Unsubstantiated at this time.