Interviewed Program Manager and staff denied the allegation. They stated that they didn't slap the cheek of client, hit clients chest to push them back and hit the back of clients head. Interviewed Program Manager and staff stated they were not witnessed that any staff physically abusing C1 or any other clients. Interviews conducted with Program Manager and staff revealed that there has not been any incident at the facility in which a facility staff physically abused or hurt any client. Interviews with facility staff revealed that all facility staff treat clients with dignity and respect and staff have never physically, verbally or emotionally abused any client in care. Interviewed staff indicated sometimes there is verbal or physical altercation between the clients, but staff always stepped in and verbally redirected them. Interviewed staff mentioned that C1 had an issue of overstepping other individuals boundaries and when C1 does this, either by touching otters or trying to steal food, other participants do become upset and try push him away. Staff always step in and redirect C1. During record review, according C1's Behavior Progress Report, staff will make sure C1 does not have access to others food and will be reminded of appropriate social behaviors of keep their hands to himself and according to C1's IPP, emotional outbursts happen once a week: consist of yelling, throwing tantrums, hitting himself and throwing items. Interviewed W1 stated that they at the day program five days a week and never witnessed that facility staff physically abusing clients. Interviewed FM1 stated that facility staff hit C1 and it's happened on multiple occasions and there were bruises on C1's body. FM1 was not able to provide any specific, detailed information about the incidents. 5 clients were interviewed at the time of visit. All interviewed clients denied the allegation. They stated that the staff didn’t physically abuse them nor observed any staff physically abusing others. Interviewed C1 stated that they are ok and don't have any pain and want to stay home with family. At the time of visit LPA observed that staff were nice and respectful towards clients. Interviews conducted do not corroborate this allegation.

Based on interviews conducted, records review and observations , there was not enough supportive evidence to concur with the reported allegations. Although the allegation may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violation did or did not occur, therefore the allegation is Unsubstantiated.

An exit interview was conducted, and a copy of this report was provided.