Regarding the allegation that staff did not follow resident’s doctor orders resulting in dehydration, records reviewed did not reveal any diagnosis of dehydration for R1. Interviews with two outside sources familiar with the facility reported not having any concerns regarding staff not following doctor’s orders. Interviews with staff reported following the doctor orders and reported honoring residents’ rights to refuse medications. A record review of the Medication Administration Record (MAR) for R1 accurately reflects doctor orders. LPA unannounced visits and review of residents’ MARs did not raise any concerns.

Regarding the allegation that staff forced resident to drink water, interviews with staff reported never forcing R1 to drink more than R1 wanted and emphasized residents’ rights. Interviews with residents reported never being forced to drink water or witnessing other resident’s being forced to drink water. Interviews with two outside sources familiar with the facility did not report any concerns regarding staff forcing residents to drink water. Further, LPA observations during unannounced visits did not raise any concerns.

The Department has investigated the above-mentioned allegations. Based upon the information obtained during this investigation, it is determined that the preponderance of evidence was not met to support or corroborate these allegations and therefore deemed unsubstantiated.

An exit interview was conducted with Caregiver Wilma Castagnola, to whom a copy of this report and the Licensee’s Rights (LIC9058 01/16) were provided.