Allegation: Staff spoke inappropriately to client

The details of the complaint alleged that facility staff are speaking inappropriately to clients in care.

On April 3, during the records review process, the Department reviewed a copy of the facility staff in-service training log dated September 2025. The Department noted that facility staff had been trained in the Client’s Rights policy and abuse reporting procedures.

On March 24, during a virtual meeting with Witness #1 (W#1), the Department asked whether they had observed or heard any staff member speaking to a client in a disrespectful or inappropriate manner. (W#1) stated that they have not witnessed that behavior. The Department also asked (W#1) if they had ever heard staff use language toward clients that she believed was unprofessional or inappropriate. (W#1) stated that they have not witnessed that occurring.

On March 26, during an interview with the facility administrator (A#1), the Department asked about the facility’s expectations and policies regarding staff communication and client interactions. (A#1) stated that staff are expected to remain professional, treat clients with respect, and speak to them using an appropriate tone. The Department also asked (A#1) whether she was aware of any incidents in which staff spoke to a client in an inappropriate or unprofessional manner. (A#1) stated that she was not aware of any such incidents.

On March 26, during a phone interview with Witness #2 (W#2), the Department asked whether they had observed or heard any staff member speaking to a client in a disrespectful or inappropriate manner. (W#2) stated that they have not. The Department also asked (W#2) if they had ever heard staff use language toward clients that they believed was unprofessional or inappropriate. (W#2) stated that they have not witnessed that.

Evaluation Report continues LIC 9099-C

On March 26, 2026, the Department was not able to speak with Client #2 (C2) due to the client’s cognitive impairment.

On March 26, 2026, during an interview with facility staff (S#1), the Department asked whether they had ever witnessed or been involved in interactions where staff used language toward a client that could be considered disrespectful or inappropriate. (S#1) stated that, to their knowledge, they have never witnessed or heard another staff member speaking inappropriately to a client. The Department also asked (S#1) to describe how they typically communicate with clients during challenging moments and what the facility expects regarding respectful communication. In addition, (S#1) stated that they have not experienced clients displaying behavioral issues, and when communicating with clients, they do not yell or scream at them.

Allegation: Staff are vaping on the premises in the presence of clients

The details of the complaint alleged that facility staff are smoking/vaping in front of the clients

On April 3, during the records review process, the Department reviewed a copy of the facility’s Smoking and Tobacco Use Policy dated July 2024. The policy states, “In keeping with the company’s intent to provide a safe and healthful work environment, smoking and other tobacco use is prohibited throughout the workplace, including client homes, agency offices, and other work areas.”

Evaluation Report continues LIC 9099-C

On March 26, during an interview with the facility administrator (A#1), the Department asked about the facility’s policies regarding staff smoking or vaping on or near the premises, particularly when clients are present. (A#1) stated that staff are allowed to smoke on their breaks and outside the facility, but not in the presence of clients. In addition, the Department also asked (A#1) whether she had received any reports or had concerns regarding staff vaping or using e-cigarettes while on duty or while accompanying clients. (A#1) stated that she has not received any such reports or concerns.

On March 26, during a phone interview with Witness #2 (W#2), the Department asked whether they had observed any staff vaping or using an e-cigarette on the facility premises while clients were present. (W#2) stated that they have never seen this occur. In addition, the Department asked (W#2) whether they were aware of any instances in which staff used vaping devices during work hours or while accompanying clients outdoors. (W#2) stated that they have never seen that happen.

On March 26, during an interview with clients in care (C#1 and C#3), the Department asked whether they had seen any staff smoking or vaping while inside or outside the facility. (2) out of (2) clients stated that they have not. Also, the Department asked whether they had ever noticed staff using a vape or e-cigarette while outside with them. (2) out of (2) clients stated no.

On March 26, 2026, the Department was not able to speak with Client #2 (C2) due to the client’s cognitive impairment.

Evaluation Report continues LIC 9099-C

During this investigation, LPA did not find sufficient evidence to support the above-mentioned allegation(s).

Based on the evidence gathered, interviews conducted, and records reviewed, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met; therefore, the above-mentioned allegation(s) are found to be UNSUBSTANTIATED.

Although the allegations may have happened or are valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violations did or did not occur.

An exit interview was conducted, and a copy of the Complaint Report was given to Jasmin Johnson/Administrator.