complaint·July 12, 2023

Continued from LIC 9099 LPA observed and took photographs of the pool. Licensee indicated the pool’s pump had broken, the new parts were purchased, and pool repair had begun, but were not yet completed at the time of the initial visit. The Licensee showed LPA that the drainage hose was connected but that the Licensee was draining the water out slowly as to not create runoff in the neighboring properties. The water contained in the pool did appear dirty, however, LPA did not observe any mosquitos or other pests in or around the standing water. Although the pool was unusable in the observed condition, the pool remained inaccessible to residents in care, by use of a surrounding fence and locked gate. Interviews with residents confirmed the pool is inaccessible at all times and no pests were observed in the backyard area. At the unrelated visit on 07/05/2023, LPA observed the pool to be full of clean water and the pool pump and filter systems appeared to be functional. Regarding the ramps, during the initial complaint visit, LPA observed and measured the facility ramps, rise of the ramps, as well as the gaps observed in the front ramp. LPA took photos of the ramps and exit paths for the residents. During the unrelated visit on 07/05/2023, LPA interviewed residents regarding the ramps and exit paths. Resident #1 (R1) indicated that the Licensee did recently repair the ramps to ensure easier access and a smoother terrain, however, R1 stated they have used the back ramp to exit the building without issue since they moved into the facility. Interviews revealed that residents are able to use the ramps and passageways with no concerns or incidents. Additionally, LPA contacted the local fire inspector to inquire about exterior ramp requirements. Documentation provided to the LPA indicated California Building Code (CBC) relating to ramps in group R-3.1 occupancies (Residential Care Facilities for 6 or fewer clients) “does not require changes in level for the exterior to be made by means of a ramp,” therefore there are no fire department requirements related to the facility’s exterior ramps. Based on interview and observation, although the allegation may be valid, at this time there is insufficient evidence to support the allegation or that a violation occurred, therefore, the allegation that “Facility is not kept free of hazards” is deemed UNSUBSTANTIATED at this time. The complaint also alleges that the Licensee did not provide proper accommodations relating to the doorways not being wide enough to accommodate Resident #1 (R1)'s wheelchair. It was observed that R1 has an extra-wide wheelchair. LPA reviewed R1’s physician’s report and corresponding documentation, which revealed that R1 uses a walker to ambulate, not a wheelchair. Additionally, there were no doctor’s orders found indicating R1 requires an extra wide wheelchair. R1 indicated that they are able to use either of their 2 (two) walkers to exit their bedroom and enter the restroom. LPA measured all doorways in the facility and Report Continued on LIC 9099-C observed another resident utilizing a wheelchair to ambulate throughout the facility. LPA contacted the fire inspector to ensure doorway width does not affect the facility’s fire clearance. Fire inspector indicated that the fire department does not have width requirements for interior doors, and therefore the door width does not affect the facility’s fire clearance. In the event of an emergency, R1’s exit route is through the back slider in their room, which is sufficiently wide to accommodate R1’s wheelchair. Based on interview, record review, and observation, although the allegation may be valid, at this time there is insufficient evidence to support the allegation or that a violation occurred, therefore, the allegation that “residents are not provided proper accommodations” is deemed UNSUBSTANTIATED at this time. No deficiencies issued. Exit interview conducted. A copy of the report was provided.