Community Hospital Of San Bernardino Dp Snf
Inspection history, citations, penalties and survey trends for this long-term care facility in San Bernardino, California.
- Location
- 1805 Medical Ctr Dr., San Bernardino, California 92411
- CMS Provider Number
- 555522
- Inspections on file
- 22
- Latest survey
- November 20, 2025
- Citations (last 12 mo.)
- 18
Citation history
Health deficiencies cited at Community Hospital Of San Bernardino Dp Snf during CMS and state inspections, most recent first.
A resident dependent on ventilator support was not properly reconnected to the ventilator after a shower, as staff failed to resume ventilation from standby mode. The oversight went unnoticed by the respiratory therapist, CNAs, and RN involved in the resident's care. The ventilator remained inactive for over three hours, resulting in the resident being found unresponsive and requiring emergency intervention and transfer to the ICU.
A resident with multiple medical conditions who was fully dependent for mobility fell and sustained a head laceration when the attachment holding the bar and scale of a Hoyer lift became disconnected during a transfer. Both the LVN and CNA involved believed the attachment was secure, but as the resident was moved away from the bed, the connection failed. Maintenance found no equipment defects, and the facility determined the incident was caused by improper securing of the lift attachment, in violation of safe patient handling procedures.
Multiple residents with G-tubes and suction devices did not have required labeling on their feeding and suction equipment, and staff failed to use or properly wear PPE such as gowns and gloves during medication administration and resident transfers, contrary to facility infection control policies and Enhanced Barrier Precautions.
Two residents at risk for pressure ulcers did not receive timely repositioning as required by their care plans and facility policy, with documented gaps of several hours between turns. Additionally, a low air loss mattress for one resident was set to an incorrect weight range, contrary to physician orders and manufacturer guidelines. Staff interviews and record reviews confirmed these failures in pressure ulcer prevention practices.
A resident with severe contractures and multiple complex medical conditions did not receive physician-ordered passive ROM exercises as specified in the care plan, with multiple shifts lacking documentation or evidence of care provided. CNA and DON confirmed the omission and acknowledged that facility policy requiring restorative care, including ROM, was not followed.
An LVN left 12 medications unattended and unsecured on a computer desk at the bedside of a resident while leaving the room to retrieve a blood pressure cuff. The medications, which included both oral and topical drugs, were accessible to anyone entering the room. Facility policy and the DON confirmed that medications must be secured at all times and not left unattended.
Two residents with complex medical needs were found sharing a room without a privacy curtain between their beds, contrary to facility policy. Staff interviews confirmed that curtains are required for visual privacy, but neither the charge nurse nor Environmental Services could explain the absence or duration of the missing curtain. The DON and Administrator acknowledged that the policy requiring privacy curtains was not followed.
The facility failed to maintain infection control practices, as residents on transmission-based precautions were not adequately separated from others, and visitors were not properly educated on PPE use. A resident was observed less than three feet from another on isolation, a visitor left an isolation room without removing PPE, and two residents shared a room without proper separation, violating federal and CDC guidelines.
The facility failed to follow CDC guidelines for droplet precautions, as observed in a shared room where a resident on droplet isolation was not properly separated from another resident. The Infection Preventionist and Neuro Care Unit Manager acknowledged that the facility's policy did not reflect current guidelines, leading to a potential risk of infection spread.
A resident with cerebral palsy, tracheostomy, and gastrostomy was placed in a soft wrist restraint without informed consent. The facility's policy requires informed consent for restraint use, which was not obtained, leading to the resident and their representative not being fully informed about the care provided.
A resident with a gastrostomy, heart failure, and tracheostomy received excessive enteral nutrition due to a failure to stop the feeding pump as ordered. The feeding pump continued to run, infusing 1512 ml instead of the prescribed 1040 ml. This discrepancy was confirmed by an LVN, and the facility's policy for accurate administration of formula was not followed, potentially increasing the risk of aspiration.
A licensed nurse left a medication cart unlocked and unattended in the North wing, contrary to the facility's policy requiring secure storage of medications. The nurse acknowledged the oversight, and the NeuroCare Unit Manager confirmed the policy breach, highlighting the importance of keeping medications locked to prevent unauthorized access.
Failure to Resume Ventilator Support After Shower Leads to Resident Respiratory Arrest
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a ventilator-dependent resident was not safely reconnected to their ventilator following a shower. The resident, who had a history of sepsis, anoxic brain injury, encephalopathy, and chronic respiratory failure, was transferred from the ventilator to an Ambu bag for the duration of the shower. Upon returning to the room, the Respiratory Therapist (RT) reconnected the resident to the ventilator but failed to resume ventilation from standby mode, leaving the ventilator inactive. Multiple staff members, including Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) and a Registered Nurse (RN), were involved in the resident's care during this period. The RN, who was overseeing 28 residents including 15 on ventilators, did not check the ventilator or its settings after the resident returned from the shower. The CNAs assisted with the shower and observed the reconnection process but did not verify that the ventilator was turned on. The RT stated that they resumed ventilation from standby mode, but ventilator logs and a review by the Bio Med Technician confirmed that the ventilator remained on standby for over three hours. As a result of the ventilator not being activated, the resident was found unresponsive, without a pulse or respirations, and a code blue was initiated. The resident required emergency intervention and was subsequently transferred to the ICU for close observation and treatment. Facility records and interviews confirmed that the ventilator was functioning properly but was not taken out of standby mode after the shower, directly leading to the resident's respiratory arrest.
Resident Fall Due to Improper Hoyer Lift Attachment
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when staff failed to ensure that a resident was free from accident hazards and did not provide adequate supervision during a transfer using a Hoyer lift. The incident involved a resident with significant medical needs, including anemia, chronic respiratory failure, and a history of cerebrovascular accident, who was fully dependent on staff for mobility. During a transfer to weigh the resident, the attachment holding the bar and scale of the Hoyer lift became disconnected, resulting in the resident falling to the floor and sustaining a head laceration that required sutures and ICU observation. Record reviews and interviews revealed that both the LVN and CNA involved in the transfer believed the attachment was secure before lifting the resident. However, as the resident was being moved away from the bed to obtain an accurate weight, the attachment suddenly disconnected. The maintenance staff later demonstrated that the lift's interlocking hooks and safety latch were functioning properly and found no mechanical defects or wear on the equipment. The facility's investigation concluded that the primary cause of the incident was the separation of the attaching C clasp on the scale portion of the Hoyer lift from the C clasp of the lifting strap, likely due to improper securing of the attachment. The facility's policy and the lift manufacturer's instructions require staff to ensure all lifting accessories are correctly and securely applied before use. Despite staff training and annual competency checks, the staff did not follow these procedures, resulting in the resident's fall and injury. The clinical director confirmed that the facility's safe patient handling and mobility policy was not followed during this incident.
Infection Control Program Deficiencies Related to Labeling and PPE Use
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain an effective infection prevention and control program for multiple residents, as evidenced by several observed deficiencies. For one resident with a gastrostomy tube (G-tube), the feeding bottle and water flush bag were not labeled with the date and staff initials, contrary to facility policy requiring these items to be changed and labeled every 24 hours. Multiple staff, including an LVN, RN, and the Infection Preventionist (IP), confirmed the absence of required labeling, acknowledging that this omission made it difficult to determine when the equipment was last changed. Additionally, for ten residents with suction tubes connected to mechanical ventilators or artificial airways, the tubing was not labeled with the date and initials as required by policy. Observations revealed that suction tubing at the bedside of these residents lacked any labeling, and both the respiratory therapist and IP confirmed this was not in compliance with facility procedures. The policy specified that disposable equipment, such as inline suction catheters, must be changed every 24 hours and labeled accordingly, but this was not followed. The facility also failed to ensure proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) during high-contact care activities. Staff were observed administering medications through G-tubes and performing transfers without wearing gowns as required under Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBP) for residents with indwelling medical devices. In one instance, a CNA wore a gown improperly, using it as an apron without the sleeves during a resident transfer after a shower. Interviews with staff and the IP confirmed that gowns and gloves were required during these activities, and that the observed practices did not align with facility policy or EBP guidelines.
Failure to Provide Timely Repositioning and Correct Pressure Mattress Settings for Residents at Risk of Pressure Ulcers
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide necessary treatments and services to promote wound healing and prevent the development of pressure ulcers for two residents who were at risk. For one resident with a history of decubitus ulcers, tracheostomy dependence, and anoxic encephalopathy, documentation showed that repositioning was not performed or recorded every two hours as required by the care plan and facility policy. Specific gaps in repositioning were noted, including periods of 3.5 hours and over 9 hours without documented turns. The Director of Nursing confirmed that these lapses occurred and that elevating the head of the bed did not count as repositioning. Another resident, who had diagnoses including obesity, encephalopathy, tracheostomy, and a gastric feeding tube, was also not repositioned according to the prescribed two-hour schedule. Observations revealed that the resident remained on the same side for over three and a half hours, despite the turning schedule indicating otherwise. Staff interviews confirmed that the resident was not turned as required, and the care plan and facility policy both specified the need for repositioning every two hours for pressure ulcer prevention. Additionally, the same resident was found to be using a low air loss mattress that was programmed for an incorrect weight range, significantly higher than the resident's actual weight. Nursing staff were unaware of the incorrect setting, and it was acknowledged that the mattress should have been set to match the resident's weight to function properly. Facility policy required the consistent use of pressure-reducing devices as ordered, and staff confirmed the importance of correct mattress settings for effective pressure redistribution.
Failure to Provide Ordered Range of Motion (ROM) Services
Penalty
Summary
Nursing staff failed to provide necessary treatment and services to maintain or improve range of motion (ROM) for a resident with significant medical needs, including cerebral palsy, tracheostomy and gastrostomy dependence, severe contractures, and epilepsy. Physician orders and the resident's care plan specified that passive ROM exercises were to be performed on both upper extremities every AM shift and both lower extremities every night shift, as tolerated. However, a review of documentation revealed multiple instances where ROM activities were not completed or documented as required over several weeks. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) confirmed the missing documentation and acknowledged that ROM was not provided as ordered. The Director of Nursing (DON) and Administrator also verified that facility policy required restorative and supportive care, including ROM, to maintain joint mobility and prevent further deterioration. The DON stated that the policy was not followed and that nursing staff were expected to complete both the care and documentation as ordered.
Unattended Medications Left at Bedside by LVN
Penalty
Summary
A Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) failed to ensure the safety and security of medications by leaving 12 medications unattended and unsecured on a portable computer desk at the bedside of a resident. The LVN left the room to retrieve a blood pressure cuff, leaving the medications accessible to anyone who might enter the room. The medications included a variety of oral and topical drugs, such as glycopyrrolate, baclofen, amlodipine besylate, vitamin C, vitamin D3, famotidine, sennosides/docusate/sodium, carmex ointment, calcium carbonate, mineral oil, polyethylene glycol powder, and a multivitamin with minerals. The resident was present in the room at the time, and the LVN returned a few minutes later to administer the medications. During interviews, the LVN acknowledged that medications should not have been left unattended, especially given the proximity to a behavioral health unit. The Director of Nursing confirmed that facility policy requires all medications to be secured in locked storage or under the direct supervision of licensed staff at all times. A review of the facility's policy on safe storage of medications reiterated the requirement for medications to be secured to prevent unauthorized access and minimize the risk of diversion.
Failure to Provide Visual Privacy Due to Missing Curtain
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when two residents, both with significant medical needs including tracheostomy and gastrostomy tube dependence as well as seizure disorders, were found in a shared room without a privacy curtain separating their beds. During an observation, it was noted that there was no curtain in place to provide visual privacy between the two residents. Interviews with the charge nurse confirmed that the facility's standard practice for ensuring privacy is to have a curtain between residents, and the absence of the curtain was acknowledged. The charge nurse was unsure how long the curtain had been missing or why it was removed, and stated that Environmental Services is responsible for hanging curtains. Further interviews with Environmental Services staff did not clarify the reason for the missing curtain. Review of the facility's policy and procedures on resident privacy and confidentiality confirmed that nursing staff are required to use curtains to provide full visual privacy during care, toileting, treatments, and other times as needed. The Director of Nursing and the Administrator both confirmed that the facility's policy was not followed in this instance, as there was no curtain present to ensure the residents' privacy.
Infection Control Deficiencies in Resident Isolation Practices
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain proper infection control practices for several residents, leading to potential exposure to contagious diseases. Resident 51, who was not on transmission-based precautions, was observed less than three feet apart from Resident 69, who was on droplet and contact isolation for ESBL. Despite the facility's policy requiring a minimum separation of three feet between residents with and without transmission-based precautions, Resident 51 and Resident 69 were only 1.5 feet apart. This was confirmed by both the Licensed Vocational Nurse and the Infection Preventionist, who acknowledged that the policy was not followed. In another instance, the visitor of Resident 85, who was on droplet isolation, was not educated about the proper use of PPE. The visitor was seen leaving the isolation room without removing the PPE, contrary to the facility's policy. Interviews with the nursing staff revealed that while visitors were instructed to wear PPE upon entering the isolation room, they were not informed to remove it before leaving. This oversight was confirmed by the Director of Nursing, who stated that the policy required PPE to be removed before exiting the room. Additionally, Resident 57, who was not on transmission-based precautions, was observed sharing a room with Resident 85, who was on droplet precautions, without the necessary spatial separation or curtain drawn between them. The Infection Preventionist and the Neuro Care Unit Manager both acknowledged that federal regulations and CDC guidelines, which require a separation of at least three feet and the use of curtains in multi-bed rooms, were not adhered to. This failure to follow established guidelines increased the risk of infection transmission between residents.
Failure to Follow Droplet Precaution Guidelines
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to adhere to the CDC guidelines for infection control, specifically regarding droplet precautions, for two residents. Resident 85, who was admitted with conditions including respiratory failure and an ESBL infection, was placed on droplet isolation. However, Resident 57, who shared a room with Resident 85, was not on any transmission-based precautions. During an observation, it was noted that the curtain between the two residents' beds was not drawn, which is a necessary measure to prevent the spread of infections transmitted by droplets. The Infection Preventionist (IP) and the Neuro Care Unit Manager (NM) both acknowledged that the facility's policy did not accurately reflect the CDC guidelines and federal regulations, which require spatial separation and the drawing of curtains between beds in shared rooms. The IP admitted to not knowing that the curtains should be drawn when cohorting a resident on droplet precautions. The facility's policy, dated May 1997, was outdated and did not include the necessary precautions, which could potentially lead to the spread of infectious diseases among residents and staff.
Failure to Obtain Informed Consent for Restraint Use
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a resident's rights were followed when a soft wrist restraint was applied to a resident without obtaining informed consent. The resident, who was admitted with conditions including cerebral palsy, tracheostomy, and gastrostomy, was observed with a soft wrist restraint on the left wrist, tied to the bed. The restraint was intended to prevent the resident from pulling at lines, tubes, and dressings. However, there was no documented informed consent from the resident or their representative for the use of this restraint. During interviews and record reviews, the Neuro Care Unit Manager acknowledged that the facility's policy, which requires informed consent for the use of physical restraints, was not followed. The policy mandates that the physician discuss the risks and benefits of restraint use with the resident or their representative and obtain informed consent. The failure to adhere to this policy resulted in the resident and their representative not being fully informed about the care and treatment provided.
Failure to Administer Enteral Nutrition as Ordered
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to administer enteral nutrition as ordered for a resident, leading to a deficiency. The resident, who was admitted with a gastrostomy, heart failure, and tracheostomy, was supposed to receive a specific amount of tube feeding at a rate of 52 ml per hour until a total of 1040 ml was infused daily. However, during an observation, it was found that the feeding pump was still running and had infused a total of 1512 ml, exceeding the prescribed amount by 472 ml. This discrepancy was confirmed by a Licensed Vocational Nurse who acknowledged that the feeding pump should have been stopped according to the physician's order. The facility's policy and procedure for administering formula, which requires accurate administration as per the physician's order, was not followed. The Neuro Care Unit Manager confirmed that the policy was not adhered to and emphasized the importance of following the prescribed feeding amounts, as they are calculated based on the resident's nutritional needs. This failure to follow the policy and physician's order had the potential to increase the risk of aspiration and compromise the resident's health.
Medication Cart Left Unlocked and Unattended
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure the secure storage of medications when a licensed nurse left Medication Cart #1 unlocked and unattended in the North wing. This incident was observed during a survey on August 15, 2024, at 5:33 AM, when a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN 6) was seen using the medication cart before entering a resident's room. The nurse did not lock the cart after removing the medication, leaving it vulnerable to unauthorized access. During an interview shortly after the observation, LVN 6 admitted to not locking the cart and acknowledged the importance of securing medications as per the facility's policy. A review of the facility's Policy and Procedure on Safe Storage of Medication, dated June 1974, confirmed that medication carts must be locked unless under direct supervision. The NeuroCare Unit Manager confirmed that the policy was not followed, emphasizing the necessity of keeping medications locked to ensure they are only accessible to authorized personnel.
Latest citations in California
Two residents with dementia, schizoaffective disorder, and major depressive disorder, both with moderately impaired cognition and needing moderate ADL assistance, were found unclothed together in one resident's bed. One resident later stated she did not want sexual activity and did not consent, while the other resident could not recall the encounter. An LVN reported that both residents verbally consented at the time but acknowledged no assessment had been done to determine their capacity to consent to sexual activity. The DON identified the incident as sexual abuse and confirmed that allowing sexual activity without prior capacity assessment was inconsistent with facility policy and that the resident was not protected from sexual abuse.
Two residents with dementia, schizoaffective disorder, major depressive disorder, and moderately impaired cognition, both needing moderate assistance with ADLs, were found unclothed together in one resident’s bed. The resident later stated she did not consent to sexual contact, while the other resident did not recall any sexual activity. An LVN documented the incident and acknowledged it constituted sexual abuse that should have been reported immediately to the abuse coordinator and appropriate agencies, but did not report it. The administrator, who serves as the abuse coordinator, stated she relies on staff to notify her immediately of such allegations so they can be reported to CDPH, law enforcement, and the Ombudsman, but this did not occur, resulting in the allegation not being reported as required.
A resident with Parkinson’s disease, osteoporosis, and osteoarthritis reported being punched in the face by another resident, resulting in facial bruising. The resident’s MDS showed intact cognition, and a change in condition evaluation documented the assault; however, the MD was not notified until more than a day later. The care plan directed licensed nurses to assess the resident’s body, and staff observed a purplish bruise on the right lower eyelid/orbital area, but this was not documented in the progress notes. Required every-shift monitoring for 72 hours after the change in condition was not documented on multiple day shifts. The DON confirmed lack of awareness of the bruise and acknowledged missing documentation and monitoring, despite facility policies requiring immediate provider notification and complete, accurate charting of changes in condition.
A nurse left a medication cart unlocked and unattended in the hallway while administering insulin to a resident with diabetes, cardiac, and post-surgical conditions. The cart was out of the nurse's direct line of sight, contrary to facility policy requiring medication carts to be locked when not in use. The DON confirmed that medications should be secured to prevent unauthorized access.
A resident’s legal representative requested copies of the resident’s medical records through a faxed request from a law office’s third-party service, but the records were not provided within the required timeframe. The MRD confirmed receiving the request and stated he had forwarded the documents to the DON for review over a month earlier and had not received them back to release. Upon review of federal requirements for record access, the ADON acknowledged that the facility did not comply with the regulation requiring provision of copies within two working days of request.
Two CNAs violated privacy and confidentiality requirements when one CNA used a personal cell phone to record and photograph two residents during a perceived altercation and then sent the video to another CNA. The residents, who had significant medical conditions including paraplegia, seizures, dysphagia, and severe cognitive impairment, were dependent on staff for ADLs. The second CNA reported that a family member later took her phone without permission, accessed the contents, and transmitted the videos and photos to facility leadership. Facility staff, including an LVN, the DSD, and the administrator, stated that HIPAA rules and facility policies prohibit staff from recording residents on personal devices and allow resident photographs only with consent and for medical purposes as part of the chart, and that the facility’s "Stop and Watch" process requires observation and reporting, not filming.
A resident with a stage 4 sacrococcygeal PI, Parkinson’s disease, hypertension, moderate cognitive impairment, and high assistance needs was not provided care consistent with the facility’s pressure injury prevention policy. Although the care plan included daily wound treatment and use of a LAL mattress, it lacked an individualized repositioning schedule and did not document education or reminders about repositioning. Facility documentation showed only that the resident was assisted to roll each shift, with no evidence of q2h turning in bed or of how often incontinence briefs were checked and changed. After the resident refused Foley catheter reinsertion, the IDT did not identify incontinence as a risk factor or add new wound-protective or moisture-preventive interventions, and the subsequent care plan for non-compliance omitted such measures. The TXN and DON confirmed that repositioning and protection of the wound from incontinence were not clearly implemented or reflected in the care plan, despite policy requirements.
A resident with Parkinson’s disease, cognitive impairment, and significant assistance needs for mobility and toileting experienced two early-morning falls resulting in head injuries. After the first fall, the IDT documented potential interventions such as a bed alarm and floor mat but did not identify the cause of the fall, did not obtain a physician order for the floor mat, and did not ensure the care plan addressed supervision or bed alarm function. Before and after the falls, the care plan lacked interventions for supervision despite poor safety awareness and failure to use the call light, and the second fall occurred when the resident slid from bed while reaching for a snack bag placed on the bedside table. IDT follow-up documentation for the second fall was incomplete, and staff acknowledged that fall causes were not identified and resident-centered interventions were not fully implemented.
A resident with severe cognitive impairment and multiple neurological diagnoses was dependent on staff for hygiene and mobility. During an IDT meeting, the resident’s family member communicated specific care preferences, but facility staff did not develop or update a comprehensive person-centered care plan to include these preferences. Review of care plans over several months showed no documentation of the communicated preferences, despite facility policy requiring the IDT to create a measurable, time-framed care plan based on assessed needs and expressed preferences.
A resident with COPD and severely impaired cognition, dependent on staff for all ADLs and mobility, had a physician order for continuous supplemental O2 at a fixed rate of 2 L/min. During observations, the resident was found receiving O2 at 3 L/min. An LVN recognized the discrepancy and reported it to an RN supervisor, but there was no documentation of any clinical rationale for the increased flow, no physician notification, and no order change. The care plan directed staff to administer O2 as ordered, and facility policy required verification of the order, documentation of flow rate and rationale, and appropriate reporting, which were not followed.
Failure to Protect Cognitively Impaired Resident From Sexual Abuse
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure a resident was free from sexual abuse when two cognitively impaired residents were found unclothed together in one resident's bed without prior assessment of their capacity to consent to sexual activity. One resident had dementia, schizoaffective disorder, and major depressive disorder, with documentation of fluctuating capacity to understand and make decisions and a Minimum Data Set (MDS) indicating moderately impaired cognition and a need for moderate assistance with ADLs. During an interview at her bedside, this resident stated she did not want to engage in sexual activity and did not consent to sexual contact with the other resident. The second resident involved also had dementia, schizoaffective disorder, and major depressive disorder, with an MDS showing moderately impaired cognition and a need for moderate assistance with ADLs. In an interview, he stated he liked women and liked to socialize with women but could not recall whether he engaged in sexual activity with the first resident. An LVN reported observing both residents unclothed in the first resident's bed and stated that, at the time of the incident, both residents verbally consented to sexual activity, but she was not aware of any assessment having been performed to determine either resident's capacity to consent. The DON stated the incident was considered sexual abuse, that it was not the facility's practice to allow sexual activity without appropriate assessment, and that the facility failed to ensure the resident was protected from sexual abuse, contrary to the facility's abuse prevention policy.
Failure to Report Alleged Sexual Abuse Between Cognitively Impaired Residents
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to report an allegation of sexual abuse between two residents to the State Survey Agency, Ombudsman, and local law enforcement as required by federal regulations and the facility’s own abuse reporting policy. A nurse documented that one resident (Resident 2) and another resident (Resident 4) were found unclothed together in Resident 2’s bed, and the nurse acknowledged that this situation constituted sexual abuse and should have been reported immediately to the abuse coordinator and appropriate agencies, but she did not report the incident. The facility’s policy stated that all staff are mandated reporters and must notify appropriate authorities within two hours of becoming aware of abuse and immediately notify the Abuse Prevention Coordinator and their supervisor. Resident 2 had dementia, schizoaffective disorder, major depressive disorder, fluctuating capacity to understand and make decisions, and moderately impaired cognition, and required moderate assistance with ADLs. During an interview at her bedside, Resident 2 stated she did not consent to sexual contact with Resident 4. Resident 4 also had dementia, schizoaffective disorder, major depressive disorder, moderately impaired cognition, and required moderate assistance with ADLs, and stated he did not recall engaging in sexual activity with any residents. The Administrator, who served as the abuse coordinator, stated she was responsible for reporting all abuse allegations to CDPH, law enforcement, and the Ombudsman, and that staff were responsible for notifying her immediately of sexual abuse allegations so they could be reported and investigated. The failure of staff to notify the Administrator and report the incident resulted in the sexual abuse allegation not being reported as required, causing a delay in an onsite investigation by CDPH.
Failure to Assess, Notify, and Monitor Resident After Facial Trauma
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to follow professional standards of nursing practice in assessing and monitoring a resident after a reported change of condition related to facial trauma. The resident was admitted with Parkinson’s disease, age-related osteoporosis, and osteoarthritis, and had intact cognitive skills for daily decision-making per a recent MDS. On the evening of 3/26/2026, a Change in Condition Evaluation documented that another resident hit this resident on the nose and both cheeks. The evaluation showed that the attending physician was not notified until 10 p.m. on 3/27/2026, approximately 26.5 hours after the reported incident, and the physician’s recommendation was to monitor the resident’s nose and cheeks for any changes and pain. The resident’s care plan, initiated on 3/26/2026, documented the report that another resident hit him on the nose and both cheeks and included an intervention for licensed nurses to check and assess the resident’s body. In an interview, the resident described that the other resident came into the room, stood on the left side of the bed, and punched him in the face. A photograph taken two days after the alleged incident showed a purplish-blue bruise on the right lower orbital area, although the resident declined to provide a copy of the picture. A CNA later reported observing a purple bruise on the resident’s right lower eyelid on 3/27/2026, described as extending from the inner to the middle lower eyelid and about the size of the tip of her fifth digit. During record review and interviews, an LVN stated that on 3/27/2026 the resident’s right lower eyelid had a dime-sized purplish bruise, but there was no documentation of this bruise in the progress notes. The LVN also stated that the resident should have been monitored every shift for 72 hours after the change of condition, yet there was no documented evidence of monitoring on the 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. shifts on 3/27/2026, 3/28/2026, and 3/29/2026. The DON reported not being made aware of the right eyelid bruise, confirmed that the resident should have been monitored every shift for at least 72 hours following the change of condition, and acknowledged there was no confirmed documentation of monitoring on the identified shifts. Facility policies required immediate physician consultation for significant changes in condition and complete, accurate documentation of changes and services provided, but the facility failed to identify, document, and monitor the resident’s change of condition in accordance with these policies.
Plan Of Correction
Facility Response Submission of the Plan of Correction does not constitute admission or agreement by the Provider of the truth of the facts alleged or conclusion set forth in this statement of deficiencies. The Plan of Correction is prepared and/or executed solely because it is required by the provision of Federal and State laws. This Plan of Correction constitutes the facility's credible allegation of compliance Corrective Action On 4/7/2026 Resident 1 was reassessed by LVN 3 and no skin issue was identified. On 4/7/2026 LVN 3 received one-on-one in-service by DON regarding importance of documenting details about resident's change of condition and monitoring every shift for 72 hours. Identification of other residents and corrective action On 4/8/2026 DON and/or designee reviewed audits provided by medical records for all change of condition in month of April to ensure proper documentation and monitoring are in place. No other deficient practice noted. Measures to prevent recurrence On 4/7/2026 LVN 3 received one-on-one in-service by DON regarding importance of documenting details about resident's change of condition and monitoring every shift for 72 hours. On 4/8/2026 Licensed nurses received in-service by DON regarding importance of documenting details about resident's change of condition and monitoring every shift for 72 hours. Monitoring and incorporation into the QA system HID will audit change of conditions using Change of Condition Audit form daily Monday-Friday and will report any finding during daily stand-up meeting Monday-Friday on-going. DON or designee will review change of conditions from prior day during daily clinical meetings (Monday -Friday) on going to ensure the nurse notified the attending physician regarding resident's significant change of condition and documented. Any deficient finding will be reported to DON and/or administrator for further corrective action/recommendation. Any trend of deficient finding(s) will be documented on Change of Condition Audit Form and will be reviewed during the monthly QA meeting for further review and/or recommendation(s). Administrator who will then report to the Quality Assurance (QA) team during monthly Quality Assurance (QA)/Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) for further evaluation/recommendation and to provide feedback and program modification if needed x3 months or until compliant. Date Corrective action to be completed: 4/8/2026
Medication Cart Left Unlocked During Medication Pass
Penalty
Summary
During a medication pass for a resident with a history of surgical aftercare, cardiac arrest, heart failure, and type 2 diabetes mellitus, a licensed nurse prepared and administered Novolog insulin using a pen-injector. The nurse left the medication cart unlocked and unattended in the hallway, approximately two feet outside the resident's bedroom doorway, while administering the injection inside the room. The cart was out of the nurse's direct line of sight during this time. The nurse acknowledged that the cart was left unlocked and should have been secured when not in direct view. Facility policy and procedure documents reviewed indicated that medication carts must be kept closed and locked when out of sight of the medication nurse or aide, and that compartments containing drugs and biologicals are to be locked when not in use. The Director of Nursing confirmed that medications should be locked and secured to prevent unauthorized access by unlicensed staff and residents. The failure to lock the medication cart during the medication pass was observed and confirmed through interviews and record review.
Plan Of Correction
From 4/4/2025 through 4/7/2025, the DON, DSD, and ADSD completed 1:1 inservices with licensed staff regarding the facility policy and procedure titled Storage of Medications. Medication carts must be kept locked when unattended. DON, IP, MDS, ADSD, or DSD will monitor medication carts being locked when unattended 3 times a week for 2 weeks. DON, IP, MDS, ADSD, or DSD will monitor medication carts being locked when unattended 2 times a week for 2 weeks. DON, IP, MDS, ADSD, or DSD will monitor medication carts being locked when unattended 1 time a week for 2 weeks. DON, IP, MDS, ADSD, or DSD will random monitor medication carts being locked when unattended for 1 month. System effectiveness will be evaluated during the facility's monthly Quality Assurance Performance Improvement Committee meetings for three (3) months.
Failure to Timely Provide Resident Medical Records Upon Request
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide timely access to medical records as required under 42 CFR 483.10(g)(2) for one resident. The resident’s face sheet showed an admission date of November 18, 2025, with multiple diagnoses, but no additional clinical details were provided. A legal representative’s office faxed an initial request for the resident’s medical records on February 26, 2026. As of March 26, 2026, the legal representative’s staff reported that the office had not yet received the requested records from the facility. On April 2, 2026, the Medical Record Director (MRD) confirmed documentation that a third-party service for the law office had requested the resident’s medical records on February 26, 2026. The MRD stated he had submitted the requested documents to the Director of Nursing (DON) for review over a month prior but had not received them back to proceed with releasing the records. During a concurrent interview and record review, the Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) reviewed the State Operations Manual Appendix PP guidance on residents’ rights to access personal and medical records, which requires that copies be provided within two working days of request. The ADON acknowledged that this regulatory requirement was not followed by the facility.
Plan Of Correction
F0573 Right to Access/Purchase Copies of Records What corrective action(s) will be accomplished for those Residents found to have been affected by the deficient practice? Medical Records Director (MRD) released medical records for Resident 1 as requested by the legal representative (Legal Staff) on April 21, 2026. How will other individuals with the potential to be affected by this deficient practice be identified and protected? No other Resident was identified to have been effected by the deficient practice. What systemic changes will be implemented to ensure that the deficient practice does not recur? The Quality Assurance Committee met on April 14, 2026 to review the Policy and Procedure which was then forwarded to the Knolls West Post Acute legal team for further evaluation. Revision of the policy will be discussed and approved by the Quality Assurance Committee to ensure the facility meets all Federal and State Regulations. F0573 Right to Access/Purchase Copies of Records (CONT.)The Administrator and the Medical Records Director (MRD) are responsible for informing the requesting party for the demand for payment for the requested medical documentation being provided and until payment is received the facility will hold the chart copies.How corrective action(s) will be monitored to ensure solutions are being achieved and sustainedThe Resident's Responsible Party will be notified upon receipt of the Medical Records Request and review in the presence of the facility representative. Records will be provided if it does not pertain to any legal matters after payment is received. The Administrator and/or Designee is responsible for reporting to the Quality Assurance Committee on a monthly basis and monitoring to ensure that corrective action is implemented and evaluated for its effectiveness. The same will be reviewed on a quarterly basis to the Quality Assurance Committee meeting x 3 quarters or until 100% compliance is achieved and sustained.Date of CompletionApril 23, 2026
Unauthorized Resident Recording and Disclosure Violating Privacy and Confidentiality
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves a failure to protect residents’ privacy and confidentiality when a CNA used a personal cell phone to record and photograph two residents without their knowledge or consent, and then shared that content with another CNA. One resident had paraplegia, depression, muscle weakness, dorsalgia, and polyneuropathy, was cognitively intact, and dependent on staff for ADLs. The other resident had diagnoses including seizures, dysphagia, acute kidney dysfunction, and muscle weakness, was able to make needs known but could not make medical decisions, had severely impaired decision-making, and was also dependent on staff for ADLs. Both residents were therefore in a position of dependence on staff for care at the time of the incident. According to CNA 2, on a specific date she recorded a video of the two residents because one resident started an altercation with the other. She stated she recorded the incident for “evidence” and to show CNA 1, acknowledging that recording residents was not part of facility policy and that she should not have recorded or taken photographs of them. CNA 1 confirmed that she received the video on her personal cell phone from CNA 2 and stated that the recording was made for “safety purposes” due to a situation that was perceived as potentially escalating to physical aggression. CNA 1 reported that she did not share or post the video on social media or distribute it to others, but that a family member took her phone without permission and accessed its contents. CNA 1 further stated that this family member sent the video and pictures of the two residents to the facility, and that she notified the facility that her phone had been taken but did not disclose that it contained videos or photographs of the residents because she was unaware that the family member had accessed or distributed them. The DSD reported receiving a text message from an unknown number containing approximately two videos and an undetermined number of photographs of the two residents, along with the names of CNA 1 and CNA 2. The DSD, LVN 2, and the Administrator each stated that staff were required to follow HIPAA regulations, that staff were not permitted to record or possess videos or photographs of residents on personal devices, and that any photographs of residents required consent and had to be for medical purposes as part of the medical record. Facility policies on confidentiality, residents’ rights, and dignity stated that unauthorized release, access, or disclosure of resident information, including video or audio, was prohibited and that staff must protect resident privacy and treat residents with dignity and respect. The videos received by the DSD did not show an altercation between the residents, and staff interviews confirmed that filming residents was not part of the facility’s “Stop and Watch” process, which instead required observation, intervention, and reporting of changes in condition or behaviors to nursing staff.
Plan Of Correction
This Plan of Correction is the facility's credible allegation of compliance. Preparation and/or execution of this plan of correction does not constitute admission or agreement by the provider of the truth or facts alleged, or conclusions set forth in the statement of deficiencies. The plan of correction is prepared and/or executed solely because it is required by the provisions of federal and state law. F0583 Personal Privacy/Confidentiality of Records How corrective action(s) will be accomplished for those residents found to have been affected by the deficient practice: Corrective actions were immediately implemented for Resident 1 and Resident 2 upon identification of the deficient practice. The facility initiated an investigation on 03/23/2026 and conducted immediate interviews with staff and residents utilizing structured interview tools to assess scope, impact, and additional potential concerns. Interviews confirmed the incident was isolated and no additional residents reported privacy violations or concerns. The staff members involved were removed from duty immediately. Following completion of the investigation, both employees were terminated in accordance with facility policy due to violation of resident rights, HIPAA, and facility confidentiality policies. Both employees completed formal Declarations and Attestations of Deletion of Unauthorized Recordings, confirming removal of all recordings and non-distribution of content. Documentation includes: Ashley Zelaya, CNA – Declaration executed 03/30/2026 at 9:21 AM, attesting deletion of all recordings and acknowledgment of policy violation Leslie Bram Reyes, CNA – Declaration executed 03/26/2026 at 10:42 AM, attesting deletion of all recordings and acknowledgment of policy violation Residents and/or responsible parties were notified. Social Services completed assessments with no identified psychosocial harm. All corrective actions were completed by 03/26/2026. How the facility identifies other residents having the potential to be affected by the same deficient practice and what corrective action will be taken. A facility-wide audit was initiated on 03/25/2026 using the Briarcrest Comprehensive Privacy, Recording, and Resident Rights Audit Tool. The audit included direct observation, staff interviews, and resident interviews to evaluate compliance with privacy practices, personal device use, and HIPAA requirements. Interviews were conducted using standardized staff and resident interview tools to ensure consistency and thoroughness in data collection. Findings from the audit confirmed that no additional residents were affected by the deficient practice and no additional incidents of unauthorized recording or disclosure were identified. Staff were immediately re-educated by Director and staff development on HIPAA Privacy Rule requirements, the facility's prohibition on personal device recordings, and the appropriate use of the Stop and Watch process for reporting changes in resident conditions. This corrective action was completed by 03/27/2026. What measures will be put into place or what systemic changes will the facility make to ensure that the deficient practice does not recur. The facility implemented systemic changes to prevent recurrence of the deficient practice by reinforcing a zero-tolerance policy for unauthorized recordings and strengthening staff accountability related to resident privacy and confidentiality. Staff completed mandatory re-training by the Director of Staff Development on Resident Rights, HIPAA, and Privacy/Confidentiality requirements. Staff were required to re-acknowledge facility policies related to confidentiality and personal device use. The facility implemented routine supervisory rounding to monitor compliance with personal device restrictions. In addition, the facility installed visible signage at the receptionist area clearly articulates that video recording is strictly prohibited inside resident rooms and in any facility areas where residents are present. The facility also posted signage throughout the entire facility, in both English and Spanish, indicating that video recording is not allowed to ensure clear communication to staff, visitors, and all individuals entering the facility. Privacy and HIPAA compliance were further integrated into new employee orientation, annual competencies, and ongoing in-service education. The Director of Staff Development completed initial re-education by 03/27/2026, and staff completed required training by 04/05/2026. How the facility plans to monitor its performance to make sure that solutions are sustained. To ensure sustained compliance, the facility incorporated privacy and confidentiality monitoring into its Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) program. The facility implemented an ongoing monitoring system beginning on 03/25/2026 utilizing the established audit tool, which confirmed that no additional residents were affected, and no further incidents occurred during the initial audit period. The facility will continue monitoring through weekly audits for four consecutive weeks, followed by monthly audits for three months. These audits will include direct observation of staff practices, verification of compliance with personal device policies, and evaluation of adherence to HIPAA and privacy requirements. Audit findings will be documented using standardized tools and reviewed by the Director of Nursing, with results reported to the Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) Committee for analysis and trending. If any issues are identified, immediate corrective action will be implemented, including re-education and progressive discipline as appropriate. If no trends or repeat deficiencies are identified after the monitoring period, the facility will discontinue routine auditing and remove the issue from active QAPI monitoring. Dates when corrective action will be completed. 4/17/2026
Failure to Implement Repositioning and Moisture Management for Stage 4 Pressure Injury
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to provide care and services to prevent deterioration of a stage 4 sacrococcygeal pressure injury in accordance with its own pressure injury prevention policy. The resident had a documented stage 4 PI of the sacral region, Parkinson’s disease, hypertension, moderate cognitive impairment, and required substantial/maximal assistance with toileting hygiene, rolling, and transfers. A Braden Scale score of 16 identified the resident as at risk for pressure injury. The Skilled Evaluation Nurse note indicated a pressure-reducing device for the bed but did not indicate that the resident was to be turned and repositioned every two hours. The resident’s care plan for the stage 4 sacrococcyx PI included cleansing with normal saline, applying Santyl ointment, and covering with dry and foam dressings daily, as well as providing pressure relief and a low air loss mattress to support body alignment and position. However, the care plan did not include an individualized repositioning schedule or education and reminders about the importance of repositioning. Documentation from the facility’s records showed that the resident was assisted to roll left and right every shift, but there was no documentation that the resident was turned and repositioned every two hours while in bed, nor was there documentation of the frequency of incontinence brief checks and changes after each episode. After the resident refused reinsertion of a Foley catheter, nursing progress notes documented the refusal but the IDT wound management conference record did not identify incontinence as a risk factor affecting healing of the stage 4 PI and did not document any new recommendations following the catheter refusal. A subsequent care plan addressing the resident’s potential for worsening condition related to non-compliance with Foley catheter reinsertion did not include wound protective measures or moisture-preventive interventions. During interviews, the treatment nurse acknowledged uncertainty about how often the resident was turned/repositioned or how frequently incontinence briefs were checked and changed, and confirmed that the care plan did not include measures to ensure turning at least every two hours or effective measures to protect the sacrococcyx PI. The DON stated that staff were supposed to ensure turning at least every two hours and protection of the wound dressing from incontinence, and that the IDT did not address this risk, so the care plan was not revised, despite facility policy requiring prompt cleaning after incontinence, use of barrier products, individualized repositioning schedules, and ongoing review of interventions for effectiveness.
Failure to Identify Fall Causes and Implement Supervision and Safety Interventions
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified a deficiency in the facility’s failure to keep the environment free from accident hazards and to provide adequate supervision and assistance devices to prevent accidents for a resident with significant fall risk. The resident had diagnoses including stage 4 sacral pressure ulcer, Parkinson’s disease, and hypertension, and was assessed as moderately cognitively impaired, with poor decision-making and a need for assistance with toileting, transfers, and ambulation. On one occasion, the resident was found on the floor at approximately 4:05 AM with a right forehead laceration requiring transfer to an acute care hospital for suturing. Following this first fall, the IDT Fall Management Follow-Up record listed interventions such as a medication regimen review, bed in lowest position, landing floor mat, and bed alarm, but there was no documented evidence identifying the cause of the fall. The resident’s care plan addressing strength and safety awareness deficits did not include supervision for safety despite poor safety awareness and not remembering to use the call light. The care plan for the actual fall with minor injury did not include ensuring that the bed alarm was functioning. Additionally, physician orders from 9/10/2025 to 1/29/2026 did not contain an order for a floor mat, despite this intervention being recommended in the IDT record. A second fall occurred at around 4:10 AM when the resident was again found on the floor next to the bed, holding a snack bag. The resident, described as alert but forgetful, stated that she had been trying to reach a snack bag on the bedside table and slid down from the bed, and redness was observed on the left side of the forehead after reportedly hitting the bedside table. The IDT Fall Management Follow-Up record for this second fall was incomplete, with no checked interventions. Interviews with the MDS nurse and DON confirmed that the IDT records should have identified the causes of the falls, that frequent monitoring and supervision were not care planned despite the resident’s cognitive impairment and poor safety awareness, and that the recommended floor mat was never ordered or applied, contrary to the facility’s own policies on assessing falls and developing comprehensive person-centered care plans.
Failure to Incorporate Resident Care Preferences Into Person-Centered Care Plan
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified a failure to develop a comprehensive person-centered care plan that incorporated a resident’s specific care preferences. The resident was readmitted on 8/31/2025 with multiple diagnoses, including metabolic encephalopathy, Alzheimer’s disease, blindness in the right eye, a history of TIA, and cerebral infarction without residual deficits. An MDS dated 10/30/2025 documented that the resident’s cognition was severely impaired and that the resident was dependent on staff for oral hygiene, toileting hygiene, personal hygiene, and movement. On 3/17/2026, the IDT met with a family member, who communicated specific care preferences for the resident. During interviews, the SSD and DSD confirmed that the family member had provided detailed care preferences at the 3/17/2026 IDT meeting, but a review of the resident’s care plans from 8/31/2025 to 3/31/2026 showed no documented care plan addressing those preferences. The DSD stated that a care plan should have been developed to reflect the resident’s care preferences, that it is the MDS nurse’s responsibility to develop the care plan, and that the absence of such a care plan could result in the preferences not being honored. The Administrator stated that the care plan is essential as it is used by staff as a guide to understand and implement the resident’s plan of care. The facility’s policy on Comprehensive Person-Centered Care Plans required the IDT to develop a comprehensive person-centered care plan with measurable objectives and time frames to meet identified needs, which was not done in this case.
Failure to Administer Oxygen Therapy as Ordered
Penalty
Summary
The deficiency involves the facility’s failure to administer oxygen therapy as ordered by the physician for a resident with COPD. The resident was admitted with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and had severely impaired cognition, requiring total staff assistance for all ADLs and mobility. A physician’s order dated 3/27/2026 directed that the resident receive continuous supplemental oxygen at a fixed rate of 2 L/min, with no indication that staff could adjust the flow rate. The resident’s care plan for altered respiratory status related to COPD instructed staff to administer oxygen as ordered. On 3/31/2026, during observations at the bedside at 8:45 a.m. and 9:40 a.m., the resident was noted to be receiving oxygen at 3 L/min, which did not match the physician’s order. An LVN reported that the resident was on 3 L/min when he checked vital signs that morning and stated this was not the ordered rate; he said he reported this to the previous shift’s RN supervisor but was unsure what action was taken. Another RN supervisor confirmed there was no documentation in the record to support an increased flow rate or any notification to the physician about the change from 2 L/min to 3 L/min, and reiterated that the order was for a fixed rate of 2 L/min. During a concurrent observation and interview, the prior RN supervisor acknowledged the resident was on 3 L/min and that the flow rate needed to be corrected to match the order. The facility’s oxygen administration policy required staff to verify a physician order, document the flow rate and rationale, and report information per professional standards, which was not followed in this instance.
Trusted data from CMS and state health departments
Every citation, penalty and Plan of Correction is sourced from public CMS records (latest release May 27, 2026) and official state health department websites — never guesswork.
Trusted by long-term care providers and associations.



