complaint·October 27, 2023

Continued LIC9099-C page 2 Allegation #1: Facility is not maintaining a comfortable temperature for residents in care. Staff members 1-5 (S1-S5) and residents 2-5 (R2-R5) unequivocally affirmed that the facility consistently maintains a comfortable room temperature for its residents. S1-S5 and R2-R5 further affirmed that the facility's environment remains cool, ensuring a comfortable range, even lower than the ambient outside temperature. Additionally, S1-S5 and R2-R5 stated that staff proactively adjust the thermostatic controls to ensure residents are comfortable at all times. During our investigation, we meticulously examined the facility's room temperature and confirmed that the thermostat was set at a comfortable 74 degrees. However, Resident 1 (R1) raised a concern, asserting that the temperature inside the facility reached an uncomfortably high 94 degrees. Allegation #2: Staff did not ensure that facility vents were cleaned. S1-S5 and R2-R5 asserted that the facility's vents are consistently cleaned, with no residents experiencing bronchial cough symptoms. S1-S3 stated they had no physician reports, medical records, or documentation indicating residents with bronchial cough issues. S5 attested to taking proactive measures by cleaning the vents, replacing filters, and ordering new ones. S5 stated the facility underwent a change in ownership, and the previous owner had engaged an AC company to service all 17 units. S5 stated he is currently in charge of maintenance, and assured that the vents are clean, and filters have been ordered and replaced. Our inspection confirmed the operational condition of the facility's ventilation system and air filters. R1 contended that the facility's vents had not been cleaned and filters had not been changed, resulting in residents developing bronchial cough symptoms. S1-S5 and R2-S5 staunchly denied this allegation. Allegation #3: Facility laundry appliances are in disrepair. S1-S5 and R2-R5 affirmed that the facility's washers and dryers are fully operational, with housekeeping staff washing residents' clothing and linen on a daily basis or as needed. Our inspection of the facility's washer and dryers validated their working condition. However, R1 claimed that the facility's washing machine and dryers were non-functional. S1-S5 and R2-S5 firmly refuted this allegation. Investigation revealed the following: The investigation yielded consistent responses from staff members 1-5 (S1-S5) and residents 2-5 (R2-R5), all of whom adamantly denied the veracity of the allegations. S1-S5, in particular, emphasized the facility's commitment to maintaining a comfortable room temperature for residents, ensuring the cleanliness of vents, and upholding the functionality of laundry room appliances. Our inspection further corroborated these assertions, as the ventilation system and air filters were found to be both clean and operational, and the laundry room's washers and dryers were in working order. Based on interviews, available evidence, observation, information received, and records reviewed there was not enough sufficient evidence to support the allegation. Although the allegation may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violation did or did not occur, therefore the allegation is deemed unsubstantiated. There were no deficiencies cited. Exit interview conducted.