complaint·November 26, 2024

Allegation: Staff handled resident roughly resulting in injury: The complaint alleges that Staff #1 (S1) was observed being rough with residents, resulting in bruising to Resident #1 (R1)’s leg. Throughout the investigation, LPA interviewed various staff and residents, including S1, LPA observed R1 during the initial visit, and interviewed R1 during today's visit. LPA did not observe bruising on R1’s leg during the initial visit. Residents interviewed, including R1, indicated care staff is helpful and all residents interviewed denied the allegation. One resident interviewed did indicate staff rush when providing care, but clarified staff are not rough, just quicker than the resident prefers. Staff interviewed indicated they have never witnessed another staff nor have they heard from any residents that staff were rough. Staff also stated that any bruising or unusual marks observed are reported on a skin check form. R1 did not have any observed injuries at the time period of the complaint, therefore did not have any skin check forms to review. Although the allegation may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violation did or did not occur, therefore the allegation “staff handled resident roughly resulting in injury” is deemed UNSUBSTANTIATED at this time. Allegation: Staff do not ensure resident hygiene needs are met: The complaint alleges that S1 does not encourage residents to shower and communicates to direct residents to deny shower assistance. Staff interviewed indicate that most residents receive shower assistance twice a week, which is documented in their shower schedule. If a resident declines a shower at a specific day or time, the staff will offer a sponge bath instead of a full shower or they will offer the shower at a different time. Shower refusals are documented and when a resident does refuse showers, the facility staff will communicate with the resident’s family. Staff indicated there are some residents who do not want to shower at a particular time, especially in the morning in the fall when the weather is cooler. But typically, the facility staff is able to provide a shower later in the day when the weather warms up. No staff interviewed reported ever witnessing this type of communication and said if anything, the facility staff are observed to be too accommodating. Residents interviewed felt their showering needs are met and had no concerns with the staff communication related to showering. Although the allegation may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violation did or did not occur, therefore the allegation “staff do not ensure resident hygiene needs are met” is deemed UNSUBSTANTIATED at this time. Report Continued on LIC 9099-C Allegation: Staff do not treat resident(s) with dignity and respect: The complainant indicates that S1 is disrespectful in their communication with residents. LPA interviewed staff and residents, including R1, related to this allegation. Residents interviewed indicated that the staff are kind and helpful. One resident stated that the staff does not like her cat, but that they are nice to the resident. No residents reported any concerns with the staff being disrespectful or not treating them with dignity. Staff interviews revealed sometimes residents don’t like if the staff leave the door to their room open or cracked open, but no concerns about staff being disrespectful. All staff interviewed denied ever hearing any other staff not treating residents with respect. Although the allegation may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violation did or did not occur, therefore the allegation “staff do not treat resident with dignity and respect” is deemed UNSUBSTANTIATED at this time. No citations issued. Exit interview conducted. A copy of the report was provided.