complaint·September 16, 2024

...Continued from LIC 9099 On 08/23/2024, the Local Ombudsman conducted an announced visit to the facility. It was reported that when they visited, the room was spotless and free from pest. On 08/26/2024, LPA Valerio observed the facility and R1's bedroom. LPA inspected common areas, hallways, dining tables, and activity area. LPA inspected R1's bed, pillow, corners of the bedroom, around the cat food, and in the bathroom area. Pests were not observed during the visit. LPA took pictures for future reference. On 08/26/2024, LPA Valerio reviewed the video submitted to the Regional Office. The video captures a pillow on a Resident 1 (R1) bed. The pillow is covered with black ants, small to medium sized ants. There are some that are dead on the pillow and some that are crawling on the pillow along with a few on the bed sheets. LPA Valerio attempted to interview the resident in care. However, due to communication barriers, the interview was unsuccessful. Residents did not appear to be in distress and were being supervised by staff members. LPA Valerio interview Staff 1 (S1). S1 reported that "they do have ants; however, staff do a good job about cleaning up after the residents. This place is in the middle of a field, so I assume this was the ant's home before we got here… There is not a time where we do not try to address the issue." According to an interview with Staff 2 (S2),  S2 stated that they have had pest control services come every month, but they have also increased their services within the last month. S2 provided invoices from June, July, August, and September. S2 stated that they comes and check all the rooms and outside of the facility. They put the sprays and everything. Staff do constant check of the rooms and when it is known there are pest, they say it on their walkie talkie. They assess to see if the resident has any on them, if they are in the room. They shower them, check for any food, and clean the room. According to Pest Control Invoices, the facility has a monthly pest service. On 05/29/24, 06/18/24, 08/09/24, pest control services provided normal service in addition to treats for the ant issue. Due to the above noted information, although the allegation may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violation(s) did or did not occur, and therefore the allegations are unsubstantiated. Per California Code of Regulations (CCR) - Title 22, Division 6, Chapter 8, no deficiencies cited. Exit interview was held and a copy of report was left at the facility.