Yucaipa Hills Post Acute
Inspection history, citations, penalties and survey trends for this long-term care facility in Yucaipa, California.
- Location
- 13542 2nd St., Yucaipa, California 92399
- CMS Provider Number
- 056365
- Inspections on file
- 35
- Latest survey
- January 8, 2026
- Citations (last 12 mo.)
- 9
Citation history
Health deficiencies cited at Yucaipa Hills Post Acute during CMS and state inspections, most recent first.
A resident at high risk for falls and fully dependent on staff for mobility fell from bed while being changed by a contracted CNA, resulting in a head injury. The CNA did not seek assistance from another staff member, despite the resident's severe cognitive impairment and need for two-person assistance. The facility's fall prevention policy was not adequately followed, leading to the incident.
A resident with dementia and a history of falls eloped from a locked memory care unit due to inadequate supervision. The resident, who required close monitoring, was found unassisted in a field by a surveyor. Staff interviews revealed a lack of coordination during breaks, leading to insufficient supervision. The facility's policy on elopement was not effectively implemented, as the exit door was not alarmed, and staff coverage was inadequate.
A facility failed to complete and submit MDS assessments for several residents within the required timeframes, resulting in inadequate monitoring of residents' conditions. The delays were attributed to staffing challenges, as the MDS nurse position was vacant or on leave, and the facility lacked a specific policy for timely MDS completion.
A facility failed to accurately complete a POLST form for a resident with serious medical conditions, resulting in conflicting information about medical interventions. The resident's POLST indicated a desire for CPR, but the section for medical interventions incorrectly selected selective treatment instead of full treatment. The DON confirmed the error, and the SSD, who completed the form, acknowledged the mistake. The facility's policy requires regular reviews of POLST forms, which was not adhered to, leading to this deficiency.
The facility failed to follow care plans for two residents, one with smoking restrictions and another with diabetes management needs. A resident with cognitive impairment and on oxygen therapy was found with smoking materials, contrary to their care plan. Another resident's blood sugar was checked after starting a meal, against the care plan's requirement for pre-meal checks. These oversights indicate non-compliance with established care protocols.
A facility failed to monitor and document the use of a low air loss mattress for a resident with a stage 4 pressure ulcer, as per the physician's order. The resident, with Alzheimer's and epilepsy, was on a mattress meant for tissue load management, requiring checks every shift. However, documentation was missing for several dates, indicating non-compliance. The Treatment Nurse and LVN acknowledged the importance of monitoring, while the DON suggested it might be a documentation error. The care plan emphasized the need for treatment monitoring, but the facility's policy was not adhered to.
A facility failed to document a gradual dose reduction (GDR) for a resident's Trazadone medication from 100 mg to 50 mg, despite a recommendation from the NP. The resident, diagnosed with major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder, was stable and agreed to the GDR. However, the resident continued receiving the 100 mg dose, and the DON did not document the resident's refusal of the GDR or the communication with the NP, contrary to the facility's documentation policy.
A facility failed to follow its policy for labeling and dating food items when a bottle of coffee creamer was found open and unlabeled in the kitchen. The Dietary Services Supervisor confirmed the oversight, acknowledging that the creamer should have been labeled and stored according to the facility's policy. A review of the facility's policy indicated that all food items must be labeled and dated, highlighting a deviation from these procedures.
The facility failed to provide the required 80 square feet per resident in two rooms, with measurements showing 72.7 and 71.3 square feet per resident. Despite this, residents did not express concerns, and no safety hazards were noted.
A resident reported that staff would take her call light away, making it inaccessible, which was corroborated by her roommate. Despite the facility's policy requiring immediate reporting of such allegations, the Administrator was not informed until a surveyor's intervention. Interviews with CNAs revealed awareness of similar incidents, but they were not properly reported, leading to a delay in addressing the alleged abuse.
A resident exposed to COVID-19 was observed participating in group activities without a mask, contrary to their care plan and facility policy. The resident, sharing a room with a COVID-19 positive individual, was supposed to follow droplet precautions, including mask-wearing and avoiding communal activities. The DON confirmed the care plan was not adhered to, risking virus transmission.
The facility failed to ensure a safe environment by not providing accessible call lights for two residents. One resident with dementia and a history of falls had her call light hanging from a light fixture, while another resident with multiple health issues had her call light on the floor behind a nightstand. Staff acknowledged that the call lights should have been within reach but were not.
Failure to Prevent Avoidable Accident Resulting in Resident Injury
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to prevent an avoidable accident involving a resident who was at high risk for falls and fully dependent on staff for mobility while in bed. The incident occurred when a contracted Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) was changing the resident's brief and turned the resident away from her, causing the resident to fall from the bed. This resulted in the resident sustaining a head injury, including a bleeding laceration to the right eyebrow and a subarachnoid hemorrhage. The Director of Nursing confirmed that the CNA should have had assistance from another staff member due to the resident's condition, which included contractures and severe cognitive impairment. The resident's medical history included cerebral palsy, Parkinson's disease, disorders of bone density and structure, and epilepsy. The resident's Minimum Data Set assessment indicated severe cognitive impairment and a dependency on staff for rolling in bed, requiring the assistance of two or more helpers. The resident was identified as high-risk for falls, with a fall risk assessment score of 14. The facility's policy on fall prevention required investigation of falls and actions to reduce further incidents, but the failure to follow proper procedures led to the resident's injury.
Resident Elopement Due to Inadequate Supervision in Memory Care Unit
Penalty
Summary
An immediate jeopardy situation was identified in a nursing home facility when a resident with dementia and a history of falls eloped from a locked memory care unit. The resident, who had severe cognitive impairment and required supervision for mobility, was found unassisted in a field adjacent to the facility by a surveyor. The facility staff were unaware of the resident's absence until informed by the surveyor, indicating a lapse in supervision and monitoring. The resident's clinical records showed a history of cognitive deficits, unsteadiness, and impaired safety awareness, necessitating close supervision. Despite these needs, the facility failed to provide adequate supervision, as evidenced by the resident's ability to leave the secure unit and exit the building. Interviews with staff revealed that there was a lack of coordination and communication regarding staff coverage during breaks, leading to insufficient supervision in the memory care unit at the time of the incident. The facility's policy on elopement and unsafe wandering was not effectively implemented, as the exit door used by the resident was not alarmed, and staff were not adequately stationed to monitor residents. The staffing schedule did not clearly assign responsibilities for supervising each hallway during staff breaks, contributing to the oversight that allowed the resident to elope. This deficiency in supervision posed a significant risk to the resident's safety and well-being.
Removal Plan
- Resident 27 was assessed by the Director of Nursing and a physician. Body assessment was done with no apparent injury. The attending physician ordered Complete Blood Count, Complete Metabolic Panel, and Urinalysis with culture and sensitivity.
- Resident 27 was placed on change of condition monitoring and 1:1 supervision with closed visual check. No change was noted related to incident.
- The Facility Administrator installed a functional audio alarm system on all exit doors in the lower unit.
- All exterior doors in the lower/Memory care unit will be checked every 15 minutes by a designated staff along with the installation of alarm system.
- Director of Nursing and designees evaluated 80 residents' elopement and wandering risk to identify any residents that were at high risk for elopement and wandering. No other residents were affected.
- Director of Nursing and designees ensured that identification of all 80 residents was in place such as wrist bands and/or photo on the electronic medical record. All residents had a wrist band and/or photos were uploaded.
- Facility staff received an in-service and training from the Director of Staff Development regarding Policy and Procedure Incident/Accident with emphasis on Elopement/Wandering Incidents. In-services will be given to all staff before the beginning of their next shift.
- Director of Staff Development initiated in-service with the Licensed Nurses and Certified Nursing Assistants about coverage during breaks and lunch. The licensed nurse is responsible for creating the daily shift assignment form including the scheduled break and lunch time to ensure that the floor has adequate staff and supervision provided to the residents. In an event that a staff is running late for the scheduled break and lunch, it is the staff's responsibility to notify the Charge Nurse or Registered Nurse supervisor so that, if necessary, the Licensed Nurse can make the adjustment to ensure adequate supervision is provided to the residents. In-services will be given to all licensed nurses and certified nursing assistants before the beginning of their next shift.
- Director of Staff Development and/or Charge Nurse will ensure that daily shift assignment is completed and scheduled breaks and lunch time is covered.
- Administrator initiated the in-service regarding the policy, monitoring, and maintenance alarm system in all exterior doors in the lower unit.
- All Exterior doors in the lower unit will be checked every 15 minutes.
- Maintenance Supervisor will test the alarms weekly and will be maintained according to manufacturer guideline.
- A log of maintenance and testing will be kept by the Maintenance Supervisor.
Delayed MDS Assessments Due to Staffing Issues
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that the Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessments for thirteen residents were conducted and submitted to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) within the required federal submission timeframes. This deficiency was identified through interviews and record reviews, revealing that the assessments were completed significantly past the Assessment Reference Date (ARD) for each resident. The delay in completing these assessments resulted in inadequate monitoring of the residents' progress or decline and a lack of resident-specific information submitted to CMS for payment and quality measure monitoring. The report details specific instances of late MDS assessments for each of the thirteen residents, highlighting the extent of the delays. For example, Resident 54's quarterly MDS assessment was completed 33 days past the ARD, while Resident 27's assessment was completed 52 days past the ARD. These delays were consistent across all residents reviewed, with the Resource MDS Nurse (RMN) and the Director of Nursing (DON) acknowledging the late submissions but unable to provide reasons for the delays. Interviews with facility staff, including the RMN and DON, revealed that the facility was experiencing staffing challenges, particularly with the MDS nurse position. The previous MDS nurse had left the company, and the current MDS nurse was on leave, contributing to the delays in completing the assessments. Additionally, the facility did not have a specific policy and procedure regarding the completion of MDS assessments, relying instead on the guidelines from the Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) manual. This lack of structured protocol may have further contributed to the oversight in timely submissions.
Inaccurate Completion of POLST Form
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a Physician Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment (POLST) form for one resident was accurately completed, resulting in conflicting information regarding medical interventions. The resident, who had been admitted with conditions including hemiplegia, heart failure, chronic respiratory failure, and COPD, had a POLST form that indicated a desire for resuscitation/CPR in Section A. However, Section B of the form, which should have indicated full treatment to align with the CPR choice, instead had selective treatment checked. This discrepancy was identified during a review of the resident's records. The Director of Nursing (DON) confirmed the inconsistency in the POLST form and acknowledged that it needed clarification. The Social Services Director (SSD), who completed the POLST, admitted to the error and stated that the form was revised by a physician after the mistake was identified. The facility's policy requires that POLST forms be reviewed quarterly and upon admission to ensure accuracy and completeness, but this process was not followed, leading to the deficiency.
Failure to Follow Care Plans for Smoking and Diabetes Management
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that Resident 14 received care and services as specified in their care plan. Resident 14, who has a history of hemiplegia, hemiparesis, falls, and heart failure, was found to be keeping their own smoking materials, including cigarettes and lighters, despite having moderate cognitive impairment and being on oxygen therapy. The care plan for Resident 14 clearly stated that smoking materials should be kept by staff and that the resident should be supervised while smoking. However, during an interview and observation, it was discovered that Resident 14 had access to these materials, which contradicted the facility's policy and posed a potential fire hazard. The facility also failed to adhere to the care plan for Resident 11, who has diabetes. Resident 11's care plan required that their blood sugar be checked before meals to ensure proper insulin administration. However, during an observation, it was noted that Resident 11's blood sugar was checked after they had already started eating breakfast. This oversight was acknowledged by the DON, who confirmed that the blood sugar should have been checked prior to the meal, as per the physician's orders and the facility's policy. These deficiencies highlight the facility's failure to follow established care plans and policies, which are crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of residents. The lack of adherence to these plans not only compromised the care of Residents 14 and 11 but also posed potential risks to their health and safety.
Failure to Monitor Low Air Loss Mattress for Resident with Pressure Ulcer
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to monitor and document the use of a low air loss mattress for a resident with a stage 4 pressure ulcer, as per the physician's order. The resident, who was admitted with Alzheimer's Disease and epilepsy, was observed on a low air loss mattress, which was intended for tissue load management. The physician's order required the mattress to be checked for placement and settings every shift. However, there were multiple instances of missing documentation indicating that the mattress was not monitored as required. The Treatment Nurse acknowledged gaps in documentation on several dates and shifts, suggesting that the monitoring of the low air loss mattress was not completed. The Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) confirmed the importance of repositioning the resident and monitoring the mattress settings due to the resident's pressure ulcer. The Director of Nursing suggested that the issue might be a documentation error. The care plan for the resident highlighted the risk for skin breakdown and the need for treatments to be administered and monitored for effectiveness, but the facility's policy on pressure ulcer management was not followed as required.
Failure to Document Gradual Dose Reduction for Trazadone
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to document a gradual dose reduction (GDR) for a resident when a recommended decrease in Trazadone from 100 mg to 50 mg was not executed and documented. The resident, who was admitted with diagnoses including major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder, was found to be stable by the Nurse Practitioner (NP) on October 7, 2024, and a GDR was recommended. However, the resident continued to receive the 100 mg dose as per the physician's orders, and there was no documented evidence of the dose reduction in the resident's records. The Director of Nurses (DON) confirmed that the resident was still taking Trazadone 100 mg and acknowledged that the resident had refused the dose reduction, preferring to continue with the current dose. The DON admitted to failing to document the resident's refusal and the communication with the NP, which was a discrepancy in the facility's documentation practices. The facility's policy and procedure on nursing documentation required documentation of treatment refusals, which was not followed in this case.
Improper Labeling and Storage of Food Item
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to adhere to its policy and procedure for labeling and dating food items, as evidenced by an observation during a kitchen tour. A bottle of [brand name] coffee creamer was found open and partially used on a table at room temperature without an open date. This oversight was confirmed by the Dietary Services Supervisor (DSS 1), who acknowledged that the creamer should have been labeled and stored according to the facility's policy. A review of the facility's policy titled 'Labeling and dating of foods' dated 2023, indicated that all food items in storage areas must be labeled and dated. The procedure specifies that newly opened food items should be closed, labeled with an open date, and used by the date following storage guidelines. The lack of labeling and proper storage of the creamer represents a deviation from these established procedures.
Room Size Deficiency in Resident Rooms
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that two of its resident rooms met the required space standards, with each resident needing at least 80 square feet in shared rooms. Specifically, rooms were found to be below this requirement, with one room measuring 72.7 square feet per resident and another measuring 71.3 square feet per resident. This deficiency was identified during an environmental tour conducted with the Maintenance Director, where the measurements of the rooms were taken and confirmed to be insufficient. Despite the deficiency in room size, observations and interviews with the residents occupying these rooms revealed that they did not express any concerns or issues regarding the space. The residents were observed to be resting comfortably, and there were no reported problems with the accessibility of beds, bedside tables, or wheelchairs. Additionally, the rooms were not crowded, and no safety hazards were noted during the survey.
Failure to Report Alleged Abuse of Resident Call Light
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that staff reported an allegation of abuse involving a resident's call light being taken away, as required by the facility's policy and federal regulations. This deficiency was identified during a surveyor's interview with Resident 36, who reported that staff would sometimes take her call light away, making it inaccessible. Resident 46, her roommate, corroborated this claim, stating she had witnessed staff taking the call light away from Resident 36. Despite these allegations, the facility's Administrator, who is also the abuse prevention coordinator, was not informed of these incidents until the surveyor brought it to his attention. Further interviews revealed that Certified Nursing Assistant 6 was aware of the incident and had informed a supervisor, though she could not recall who. Certified Nursing Assistant 7 also mentioned hearing about similar incidents from other residents but did not report them to anyone. The facility's policy on abuse investigation and reporting mandates that all allegations of abuse be reported immediately to various authorities, including the state licensing agency and law enforcement, within specified timeframes. However, this protocol was not followed, resulting in a delay in reporting and investigating the alleged abuse, potentially placing residents at risk.
Failure to Implement COVID-19 Precautions for Exposed Resident
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to adhere to its infection prevention and control program, specifically in managing the spread of COVID-19. Resident 1, who was exposed to COVID-19 through a roommate, Resident 5, was placed on transmission-based droplet precautions. Despite this, Resident 1 was observed participating in group activities with eleven other residents in a common area without wearing a mask. The Infection Preventionist Nurse confirmed that Resident 1 was not following the care plan, which included wearing a mask and avoiding communal activities to prevent the spread of the virus. The Director of Nursing acknowledged that Resident 1's care plan, which emphasized mask-wearing, social distancing, and avoiding group activities, was not followed. The facility's policy on infection prevention and control, which aligns with CDC recommendations, was not effectively implemented, as evidenced by Resident 1's participation in communal activities despite being on isolation precautions due to COVID-19 exposure.
Inaccessible Call Lights for Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure a safe environment for two residents by not providing accessible call lights. Resident 1, who has dementia, unsteadiness on feet, and a history of repeated falls, was found with her call light hanging from a light fixture on the wall, making it inaccessible. During an observation and interview, Resident 1 stated she did not know where the call light was and needed to use the restroom. The Director of Staff Development (DSD) and a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) acknowledged that the call light should have been within reach but was not. Similarly, Resident 3, who has dementia, peripheral vascular disease, and respiratory failure, was found with her call light on the floor behind a nightstand, making it inaccessible. During an observation, Resident 3 was lying in bed with her eyes closed. The DSD and CNA acknowledged that the call light should have been within reach but was not. The facility's policy, which mandates that call lights be accessible to residents, was not followed, as confirmed by the Administrator during a review of the policy and procedure.
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.
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