complaint·July 25, 2024

Based on the evidence the allegation, is deemed unsubstantiated, meaning that although the allegation may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove that the alleged violation did or did not occur. The investigation into the allegation, staff did not prevent covid outbreak revealed the following. It was alleged that the facility did not follow the infection control plan when a resident had obvious Covid-19 symptoms and when residents tested positive for Covid-19. A review of records shows that 9 residents tested positive for Covid-19 from July 1, 2024 until July 25, 2024. The facility has a census of 132 residents. The Assistant Administrator reported that once a resident is tested positive for Covid-19 they contact Orange County Health Care Agency, Community Care Licensing (CCL), the resident's physician and their responsible party. The Assistant Administrator reported that once a resident is tested positive they self isolate in their room and staff interacting with them follow all the guidelines regarding the use of PPE. It was reported that R1 was exposed to Covid-19 from Resident 2 (R2) and R2 had obvious symptoms of Covid-19. 5 out of 5 staff interviewed could not verify this report. R1 could not verify this report. R2 could not be reached to be interviewed. R2 tested positive for Covid-19 the day after R1 tested positive. It was reported that the facility was slow to act when R1 tested positive for Covid-19. The Assisted Living Director reported that once R1 tested positive they notified the family and the physician and R1 agreed to isolate in their room. All 7 witnesses interviewed and R1 verified this report. It cannot be determined where R1 or R2 caught Covid-19. All 5 staff interviewed and the Assisted Living Director and the Assistant Administrator reported that all residents who tested positive for Covid-19 were isolated and the facility followed their infection control plan. There is no evidence to support the allegation, therefore the allegation is deemed unsubstantiated, meaning that although the allegation may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove that the alleged violation did or did not occur. An exit interview was conducted and a copy of the report provided.