Complaint·October 10, 2023

(Continued from LIC9099) Interviews and records revealed that in September 2023, two residents in MCU complained to staff of having rashes and itching. The facility arranged for the two residents to be evaluated by their primary care physician. The reports for both residents did not indicate a diagnosis of infectious disease but both were given medicated creams for the itching. About a week later, a third MCU resident reported they had rash and itching. The resident was seen by their PCP and later a dermatologist. The facility was notified that the dermatologist diagnosed the resident with an infectious disease spread by skin to skin contact. Records obtained by LPA, show that on 10/5/2023, the facility sent an email to the families of all residents assigned to the MCU. The message essentially informed families of confirmed infectious disease cases in the MCU. The facility indicated that they had consulted with medical professionals and the California Department of Public Health. The facility stated they treated all MCU residents and staff assigned to work in the MCU. The message also informed families that the facility would be delivering a second treatment in seven days. Additionally, the message noted that visitation was still permitted with the appropriate precautions taken, specifically proper contact and hand washing. The message also noted that PPE, to include, gloves, gowns, masks, shoe covers would be made available upon request. Record reviews noted that the facility followed infectious control disease guidance from CDPH and their own skin-to-skin contact infectious control policies and procedures. Interviews indicated that of the 51 MCU residents in isolation only 19 were diagnosed with the disease and showed symptoms. The remaining 32 residents were not diagnosed as positive and were asymptomatic. The remaining residents were still given treatment including isolation out of precaution. Interviews revealed that three MCU staff complained of itching and rash but were not diagnosed with an infectious disease. However, out of precaution, the facility followed CDPH guidance and are having the affected staff isolate and receive treatment. Also, facility nursing staff provided face to face information to affected family members. A conversation with one family include an explanation why resident clothing was (Continued from LIC9099-C) bagged and sanitized. This conversation included explaining that all affected residents were allowed to select clothing to be worn during the 14-day isolation period. The Department has investigated the allegation that the facility did not take necessary precautions to prevent an infectious disease outbreak. Based on records and interviews, there is no information to corroborate or support the allegation, therefore, the preponderance of evidence standard was not met. The allegation is UNSUBSTANTIATED. An exit interview was conducted with Administrator Downing and a copy of this report and the Licensee's Rights (LIC9058) were provided to Administrator Downing.