complaint·April 15, 2022

Allegation: "Verbal Abuse". It is alleged that on April 4, 2022 ,caregiver staff (S1) became upset and was yelling in front of resident (R1), visitor, and Administrator when questioned about a toe injury that was observed in resident (R1's) left toe. It is also alleged that the Administrator also became upset and raised its' voice, as it had not been made aware of the toe injury. The resident sustained a minor trauma wound on the left toe (picture obtained). Resident (R1) stated that staff (S1) accidentally stepped on the toe during wheelchair to the bed transfer. The resident stated that it did not realize the toe was injured until April 4, 2022, and did not report it staff (S1) or Administrator because it loves and respects staff (S1). Resident (R1) denied being verbally abused by staff (S1) and/or any other staff. Five (5) out of five (5) staff interviewed denied the allegation. Staff (S1) denied verbal abuse and yelling at resident, but did admit that it always talks loud, especially towards resident (R1) because the resident is hard of hearing and sometimes does not have its' hearing aids on. Nine (9) out of nine (9) residents interviewed denied verbal abuse by staff (S1) or other staff. On 4/12/22, LPA interviewed resident (R1) and confirmed that R1 has severe hearing loss, wears hearing aids, and must be talked to in a loud voice. Resident (R1) stated she is very happy and grateful for the care that staff (S1) provides. Resident (R1's) Durable Power of Attorney stated R1 is treated well by staff (S1), and confirmed R1 is hard of hearing. Therefore, staff must speak to the resident in a loud tone. Based on interviews conducted and document review, there was not enough supportive evidence to concur with the reported allegation. Although the allegation may have happened or is valid, there are not a preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violation did or did not occur, therefore all the allegation is UNSUBSTANTIATED. An exit interview was conducted with Administrator Kim Commodore. A copy of the report was issued.