Complaint·March 26, 2024

If staff call out for less than three (3) hours, then the staff already working will stay over for approximately one (1) to two (2) hours as needed. ED expressed staff have not complained and they all work together as family. The ED explained there were a couple of unforeseen circumstances that came about with staff not being present due to family emergencies. However, all shifts were covered. Resident interviews expressed their needs are met and when they call for assistance, it’s received. The Resident Service Director (RSD) also confirmed the facility has sufficient staffing. The RSD explained the memory care unit has one (1) lead; four (4) caregivers; one (1) med tech; one (1) activity director. The Memory Care Director (MCD) also confirmed the memory care unit has sufficient staffing. Outside source interviews revealed the facility had insufficient staffing and addressed the issue with the MCD. On 10/29/22 the MDC responded to the outside source in writing and explained during this time a Medication Technician had a medical emergency and another care staff had a death in their family. However, services were not interrupted for the residents. The facility always ensured sufficient staff were present to meet the residents’ needs. It was also alleged the facility was malodorous in the memory care unit. On 11/08/22, LPA observed the memory care unit, it was clean and odor free. Later in the visit, LPA was out in the common area and observed a strong feces odor. There was a resident sitting in a chair in the common area that fell asleep, sitting up in the chair. The resident had a bowel movement in their incontinent briefs. Staff interviews confirmed that residents were unable to alert staff when they have a bowel movement due to their Major Neurocognitive Disorder. Staff interviews revealed they check the residents every two (2) hours but if they smell the resident, they change their briefs immediately. The MCD also confirmed a specific resident likes to fall asleep in the common area and they have bowel movements, while in the common area. The MCD also stated staff check residents every two (2) hours or sooner if a smell was observed. The ED, RSD, and MCD all confirmed there were no odors in the memory care unit. The Maintenance Director’s interview confirmed there were no odors, and the carpets were shampooed every two (2) weeks. The housekeeper’s interview also confirmed there were no odors but sometimes a resident has a bowel movement on themselves and that can cause the common area to smell. However, once observed, the caregivers change the residents. During the course of the investigation, interviews were conducted, and records were reviewed. Investigation revealed inconsistent statements and information obtained did not present a preponderance of evidence to support or corroborate the allegation. The allegation was deemed unsubstantiated. An exit interview was conducted and a copy of this report along with Licensee Rights (LIC 9058 03/22) was provided to Memory Care Director, Marie Lou Fikingas whose signature below confirms receipt of these rights.