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32 | Allegation: Questionable Death
The details of the complaint alleged S1 wheeled R1 into R1 bed room and left R1 unsupervised for an extended amount of time while R1 had a safety belt attached to R1 wheelchair. During this time, R1 aspirated and died. The department conducted interviews with the Administrator (A1) and Staff #1-8. A-1 Carla Mariano confirmed that R#1 was left in a room unsupervised approximately 1.5 hours with her safety belt on and was found slumped over in her wheelchair unresponsive. 8 out of 8 staff confirmed the allegation occurred.
The department conducted records review which revealed R1 was admitted to the facility on 9/4/2021 (Resident Assessment Form, dated 9/4/2021) with primary diagnoses which included hypertension, agitation, generalized muscle weakness, and dementia. R1 was dependent with all ADLs, except assistance with feeding. R1 had motor impairment/paralysis in which R1 was wheelchair bound and unable to maneuver without assistance. R1 required assistance with transfer to and from the bed. R1 was noted with fair physical health status (Physician’s Report, dated 12/14/2022). It was also noted resident had diagnosis of dysphagia (Physician’s Report dated 9/7/2021). Based on the department’s review of R1 record there was no documented evidence a care plan to address the use of safety belt on the wheelchair for R1. Also, there was no care plan to address when and how often resident should be monitored on the wheelchair with R1 safety belt fastened. Lastly, there was no care plan to address resident at risk for aspiration/choking due to diagnosis of dysphagia and or any interventions to prevent resident from injuries related to the use of safety belt.
The department reviewed the Death Certificate (dated 2/14/2023) which indicated the immediate cause: Possible aspiration.
Based on the interviews conducted and records reviewed S1 failed to properly supervise R1 resulting in the death of R1.
Based on records review and interviews, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met; therefore, the allegation of “Questionable Death” is found to be SUBSTANTIATED. California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 6, Chapter 8 are being cited on the attached LIC 9099D.
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