complaint·April 8, 2022

On February 9, 2022, LPA conducted a subsequent visit to the facility and while touring the facility with the Executive Director, they observed S2 wearing a face mask on her chin. LPA asked S2 why she was not wearing the face mask properly while providing grooming services to residents, S2 advised it was uncomfortable. LPA offered alternatives but S2 declined. LPA asked that she position the face mask properly and S2 complied. During the period of December 27, 2021 and February 8, 2022, the facility had one or more residents in the facility with active COVID-19 diagnoses. Interviews with outside sources revealed that on multiple occasions staff have been observed without face masks. The outside source stated that the staff exposed residents in care. During the period the outside sources observed staff without face masks, the facility had COVID-19 positive residents. During today’s visit, LPA and IAPA observed S1 not wearing a mask but minutes later he put one on. A review of staff records revealed S1 was verbally counseled for not wearing face masks properly on July 6, 2020 and received Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) training on August 27, 2020. Based on staff interviews, review of records, and observations, a preponderance of evidence exists to support the allegation that facility staff are not following infection control masking guidance. The allegation is therefore substantiated. A deficiency is cited per California Code of Regulations, Title 22 (refer to the attached LIC 9099-D). An exit interview was conducted with Executive Director Amy Banaga, to whom a copy of this report, LIC 9099-C, LIC 9099-D, and the Licensee/Appeal Rights (LIC 9058 01/16) were provided via E-mail.