1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32 | Allegation: Staff did not ensure hazards were inaccessible to residents
In regard to the allegation that staff did not ensure hazards were inaccessible to residents:
It is alleged that Resident #1 (R1) was sprayed in the face by her roommate, Resident #2 (R2), with an unknown chemical substance while at the facility. R1 reported that the substance smelled like a disinfectant and that her personal belongings were also sprayed and observed to be damp. It was further alleged that the identity and safety of the chemical substance were unknown at the time of the alleged incident. During an interview, R2 denied spraying R1 with any chemicals and denied spraying R1’s personal belongings.
LPA and LPM toured the facility and sampled several resident rooms and common areas in an attempt to identify any exposed or accessible chemical substances. During the tour, LPA and LPM observed that facility chemicals were stored in two (2) locked closets located in a hallway near the entrance of the facility. LPA and LPM also observed the housekeeping cart to have a locked cabinet in which all cleaning chemicals were secured while the housekeeper was actively cleaning. No exposed or unsecured chemicals were observed during the tour. LPA and LPM conducted interviews with eight (8) residents (R1–R8). All residents interviewed denied having access to chemicals and stated they are aware that chemicals are not permitted in resident rooms. LPA interviewed five (5) staff members, all of whom confirmed that chemicals are locked at all times, are not accessible to residents, and should never be kept in resident rooms. Staff stated that there should never be resident exposure to chemicals and that staff are expected to closely monitor chemical storage and use at all times.
Based on interviews and observations, none of the staff or residents interviewed corroborated the allegation.
Based on direct observation, statements and interviews conducted with staff/residents there was not enough supportive evidence to concur with the reported allegation. 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 is UNSUBSTANTIATED. Exit interview was held, and a copy of this report was provided.
|