F0774

D

Failure to Ensure Driver Competency for Resident Transport Vehicle

Delano, California Survey Completed on 03-03-2026

Penalty

No penalty information released

Summary

The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to ensure that staff members who drive the facility’s transport vehicle were assessed and documented as competent to do so. During interviews, one facility staff member stated he had transported residents in the facility vehicle when asked by leadership, and employee file review showed another staff member also used the transport vehicle to transport residents. The DON confirmed that the facility provides transportation for residents to and from appointments and for activity outings. The DSD reported that facility staff, including two identified staff and activities staff, use the facility van for these purposes but stated there was no process in place to verify that these staff were competent and safe to operate the transport vehicle.

The AD, who had worked at the facility for 15 years, stated that transporting residents on outings is part of her job and described the facility van as accommodating nine residents, including wheelchair-bound residents, with a hydraulic lift and wheelchair securement straps. She reported she had not been required to demonstrate competency or safety in driving the van. A concurrent observation with the DON confirmed the presence of a hydraulic lift and capacity for nine residents, including those who must remain in wheelchairs. The DON acknowledged that the facility had not completed competencies for staff who drive the transport vehicle. This practice was inconsistent with the facility’s written Competency Evaluation policy, which requires that all staff who provide care, treatment, or services be competent to perform their duties, with competency defined as the demonstrated knowledge and skill necessary to perform a task or job safely, successfully, and efficiently.