complaint·January 3, 2022

During the investigation, the LPA conducted interviews with facility staff, the administrator, facility residents, and resident family member(s) which revealed that they believe that there is a language barrier which prohibits staff from communicating effectively with the residents. LPA Walker asked staff #1 (S1) multiple questions regarding care and supervision such as, ‘What would you do if you observed a resident having a heart attack’; ‘Do you know how to call the paramedics’; and ‘What would you do if you observed a resident having a seizure.’ S1’s responses were not consistent with the LPAs questions. When the LPA interviewed the administrator, the administrator denied the allegation. The Administrator stated that staff are able to communicate effectively with all of the residents. The Administrator also stated that staff are utilizing Apps, and books to learn Basic English. When the LPA asked the administrator to instruct S1 to show the App that staff is using to learn English, the administrator stated that S1 did not have it on this phone due to recently switching phones. Interviews with facility residents, and resident family members revealed that they believe ‘It would be good to have a caregiver there that is fluent in English.’ Interviews also revealed that ‘sometimes [staff] don’t understand well’ when residents are asking questions they ‘give [a] blank stare.’ Based on interviews with staff, the administrator, facility residents, and resident family member(s), there is sufficient evidence to support the allegation ‘Staff is unable to communicate effectively with the residents while in care.’ Therefore, the above allegation is found to be Substantiated. The facility was previously cited for the same allegation on 09/14/2021 under section 87411(a). Additionally, civil penalties are being assessed for a repeat violation. Pursuant to Title 22 Division 6 Chapter 8 of the California Code of Regulations, the following deficiency was cited (refer to LIC 9099D). Civil Penalties assessed for Repeat Violation. Exit interview conducted, and appeal rights discussed. A copy of the report, and appeal rights were issued. During the investigation, LPA Walker conducted a record review, interviews with staff, the administrator, facility residents, and resident family member(s). Interviews revealed that It has been proven that R1 not able to care for themselves in their own home. It was reported that upon entry of R1’s home the refrigerator was full of rotten food, overflowing sink with dirty dishes, and the house was unkept. Interviews also revealed that R1 has gone on outing with family, and is not being locked in the facility by any means. Record review revealed that R1 requires supervision, and is not able to leave the facility unassisted due to history of altered mental status. Based on LPAs observation, record review, and interviews conducted. Although, R1 is requesting to move from the facility, given the circumstances R1’s family and medical professionals have highly recommended that R1 remains in a facility providing care and supervision. Based on LPAs observation, R1 is able to go outside to the facility’s front porch, and backyard at any time. Therefore, there is insufficient evidence to support the allegation ‘Staff are prohibiting resident to move from the facility.’ Although the allegation may have happened or is valid, there is insufficient evidence to prove the alleged violation(s) did or did not occur, therefore the allegation is Unsubstantiated at this time. Exit interview conducted. A copy of the report was provided.