Sterling Senior Community 9

Type of visit: Annual/Random

On September 1, 2026, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Brandon Lopez made an unannounced visit to the facility to conduct the required annual inspection. LPA was greeted and granted entry into the facility by staff after explaining the purpose for the visit. Administrator (AD) Arnold Mendoza was notified via telephone and later arrived to assist with the inspection. LPA observed that Arnold Mendoza has a valid Administrator certificate which expires on December 6, 2027. The facility is a Residential Care Facility for the Elderly (RCFE) licensed for six resident, of which five can be non-ambulatory and of which one can be bedridden. The facility also has an approved hospice waiver for four residents. The facility is a single story home with six private resident bedrooms, one staff bedroom, four resident bathrooms, a living room, a dining room, a kitchen, and attached two car garage. LPA, accompanied by the AD, conducted a tour of the interior portions of the facility. On today's visit, LPA observed six residents in care and two care giving staff present. LPA observed the See Something, Say Something poster (PUB475) mounted on the wall by the entryway of the facility. LPA inspected all six resident bedrooms and observed them to be free of hazards. LPA observed resident bedrooms to have the required furnishings of a bed, a chair, a chest of drawers, and a lamp. LPA observed resident beds to have clean linens and blankets. LPA observed additional linens to be stored in a hallway closet. LPA inspected the four resident bathrooms and observed them to be clean. Bathrooms were equipped with grab bars and nonskid floor mats. Faucets and toilets were operational. Hot water temperature measured between 120 and 123.2 degrees Fahrenheit. LPA observed the staff bedroom to be kept locked and inaccessible to residents in care. CONTINUED ON LIC809-C LPA observed the facility has a two day perishable and a seven day nonperishable food supply on hand in the kitchen. LPAs observed kitchen appliances to be clean and operational. LPA observed kitchen knives and sharps to be stored in a locked kitchen cabinet. LPA observed chemicals and toxins to be stored in a locked kitchen cabinet under the sink. LPA observed a fire extinguisher to also be mounted on the wall in the dining room and it was observed to be charged and serviced as of July 3, 2026. LPA tested the individual smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors which tested operational. LPAs observed the facility conducted their last emergency disaster drill on August 31, 2026. LPA observed the centrally stored medication to be kept in a locked cabinet located in the kitchen. LPA observed the facility has a first aid kit stored in the locked cabinet and it had all the required components. LPA observed the door leading to the attached two car garage to be kept locked and inaccessible to residents in care. LPA observed the garage to be used for storage and laundry. LPA observed additional chemicals and cleaning supplies to be kept in the garage. LPA observed the facility has a three day emergency food and water supply stored in the garage. LPA, accompanied by the AD, conducted a tour of the exterior portion of the facility. The exterior portion was observed to be free of hazards and obstructions. LPA observed a shaded outdoor seating area with furniture for resident use in the backyard. LPA observed the perimeter gate to be self latching and can be opened in an evacuation. There are no bodies of water on the premises. LPA reviewed all six resident files. All the required documentation were present and current in the resident files reviewed. LPA reviewed the residents' medication and medication records. LPA reviewed six staff files. All staff are background cleared and associated to the facility. Based on the observations made during today's visit, no deficiencies are being cited per Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations. A Technical Violation is being issued on the attached LIC9102TV page. An exit interview was conducted with Administrator Arnold Mendoza and a copy of the report was provided at time of visit.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Sep 1, 2026

Type of visit: Office

Licensing Program Managers (LPM) Kevin Saborit-Guasch and Alisa Ortiz along with Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Nancy Guillen met with Licensee Albert Pimentel and Michelle Kellogg in regards to concerns with consistency of complaints investigations and also wanted clarification on Title 22. The following were discussed: - Complaint Investigation Process, - Expectations of collaboration between LPAs and Licensees, - Appeal rights, - Title 22 requirements regarding staff training, awake staff, and staff records. Licensee expressed intention to continue building rapport with the Department. An exit interview was conducted and a copy of this report was provided.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, May 21, 2026

Allegation investigated: Facility is in disrepair. Facility staff failed to properly administer resident’s medications. Facility failed to maintain a complete and accurate resident’s records.

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Fred Arias conducted an unannounced complaint visit to finalize an investigation into the above allegations. LPA was greeted and granted entry into the facility and explained the reason for the visit. It was alleged facility is in disrepair, facility staff failed to properly administer resident's medications, and facility failed to maintain a complete and accurate resident’s records. LPA conducted interviews with staff and residents. LPA reviewed records obtain. The investigation determined as follows: Regarding the allegation the facility is in disrepair, LPA toured the facility with staff to determine if the facility is clean, safe, sanitary and in good repair. At 9:25AM, LPA observed the auditory exit alarm for the sliding door across the way from room 5 to be non-operational. In addition, the auditory exit alarm for the sliding door in room 5 is not functioning optimally. Interviews with two out of six residents stated the facility has remained in good repair overall. The remaining four residents could not be qualified for interviews. Substantiated Interviews with three out of three staff stated there are maintenance persons who are available to make repairs to the facility as needed. LPA did not observe any other physical plant issues during the visit. Regarding the allegation facility failed to properly administer resident's medications, it was reported medications are not administered per Title 22 regulations. Interviews with two out of six residents stated they are assisted with medications. One out of the two residents stated they receive medications three times every day after meals. The remaining four residents could not be qualified for interviews. Two out of two staff stated they assist residents with medication administration and record medication administration daily. The two staff added there has never been an instance where medications were not available or delayed. LPA audit of medications revealed two prescription creams (Fluocinonide cream and hydrocortisone cream) for R1 are not available at the facility. After LPA made staff aware, the staff placed an order for the creams. Regarding the allegation facility failed to maintain a complete and accurate resident’s records, it was reported resident records and not maintained per Title 22 regulations. LPA review of six out of six centrally stored medication and destruction records revealed R1's prescription hydrocortisone cream was not listed under medications. The remaining resident records were complete. Based on interviews conducted, records reviewed, and observations, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met. Therefore, the above allegations are found to be SUBSTANTIATED. California Code of Regulations, (Title 22, Division 6), are being cited on the attached LIC 9099D. An exit interview was conducted and a copy of the report was left with the facility representative along with appeal rights. LPA record review of the LIC500 indicates there are six caregivers available or on call with at least two caregivers scheduled to work from 7AM to 7PM and one caregiver scheduled to work from 7PM to 7AM. LPA reviewed schedule indicating two staff during the day shift and one staff during the night shift from May to April 2026. Based on interviews and record review, LPA is unable to corroborate the allegation. Therefore, the allegation is deemed to be UNFOUNDED, meaning that the allegation was false, could not have happened and/or is without a reasonable basis. An exit interview was conducted and a copy of the report was left with the facility. One of the two staff added they had training on April 14, 2026 but could not recall who led the training or what topics were covered. Based on interviews and records observed, the allegations is therefore deemed unsubstantiated meaning that although the allegation may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of the evidence to prove that the alleged violation occurred. An exit interview was conducted and a copy of the report was left with the facility representative.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Apr 17, 2026 · control 22-AS-20231211124258

From the deficiency page — Deficiency type: Type B · Section cited: CCR 87303(a) · Plan of correction due date: Apr 30, 2026

87303(a) Maintenance and Operation The facility shall be clean, safe, sanitary and in good repair at all times. This requirement is not met as evidenced by: LPA observed audio exit alarm across from room 5 not operational which poses a potential health and safety risk to persons in care.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Apr 17, 2026

Plan of correction: AD stated battery have been ordered and will be replaced. AD to provide proof to LPA by POC due date.

From the deficiency page — Deficiency type: Type B · Section cited: CCR 87465(h)(6)(C) · Plan of correction due date: Apr 30, 2026

87465(h)(6)(C)Incidental Medical and Dental Care The licensee shall be responsible for assuring that a record of centrally stored prescription medications for each resident...and includes: The drug name, strength and quantity This requirement is not met as evidenced by: Hydrocortisone cream for R1 was not listed the R1's Centrally Store Medication and Destruction record which poses a potential health and safety risk to persons in care.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Apr 17, 2026

Plan of correction: AD stated centrally store medication list will be updated with current medications. In-service training will be provided to staff and proof will be sent to LPA by POC due date

From the deficiency page — Deficiency type: Type A · Section cited: CCR 87465(a)(1) · Plan of correction due date: Apr 18, 2026

Incidental Medical and Dental Care 87465(a)(1) The licensee shall arrange, or assist in arranging, for medical and dental care appropriate to the conditions and needs of residents. The requirement is not met as evidenced by: R1 has a prescription for two creams used daily that are not availabled at the facility which poses an immediate health and safety risk to persons in care.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Apr 17, 2026

Plan of correction: AD stated creams will be ordered and adminstered to R1. In service training will be completed and proof sent to LPA by POC due date.

Type of visit: Case Management - Deficiencies

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Fred Arias conducted an unannounced case management visit to follow up on observations made during a complaint investigation on April 17, 2026, complaint number 22-AS-20231211124258. During the facility tour, LPA observed resident 1 (R1) in resident 2 (R2)’s bedroom on their wheelchair with a restraint belt across their lap. LPA interviews with two out of two staff stated R1 has a restraint because they’re always attempting to get up from the wheelchair. One out of the two staff added the restraint is on for three to four hours per day. The remaining staff added the restraint is on all day. LPA interview with Administrator (AD) Sheryl Tongol stated she was unaware of the restraint being used. AD stated she was in the facility yesterday (April 16, 2026) and did not notice the restraint on R1. LPA took a picture of R1 with the restraint. AD stated there is no doctor order that could be located indicating the restraint can be used as a postural support. In addition, LPA observed R2 with full bed rails installed on their bed. AD stated R2 is not on hospice. LPA record review of R2 indicated there is a bed rail order. However, Title 22 does not allow for full bed rails for residents who are not on hospice. Only half rails may be used. Based on the observations made during today’s visit, deficiencies are being cited per Title 22 Division 6 of the California Code of Regulations. An immediate civil penalty is being assessed. This report was discussed with the facility representative and a copy was provided along with appeal rights.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Apr 17, 2026

From the deficiency page — Deficiency type: Type A · Section cited: CCR 87608(a)(1) · Plan of correction due date: Apr 18, 2026

87608(a)(1) Postural Supports Postural supports shall be... used to achieve proper body position and balance, to improve a resident's mobility and independent functioning, or to position rather than restrict movement This requirement is not met as evidenced by: LPA observed R1 with a restraint while in their wheelchair, preventing R1 from standing which poses an immediate health and safety risk to persons in care.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Apr 17, 2026

Plan of correction: Staff removed the restraint from R1's wheelchair. AD stated in-service training will be conducted will all staff working at the facility indicating the restraint cannot be used.

From the deficiency page — Deficiency type: Type B · Section cited: CCR87608(a)(5)(B) · Plan of correction due date: Apr 30, 2026

87608(a)(5)(B) Postural Supports Bed rails that extend the entire length of the bed are prohibited except for residents who are currently receiving hospice care and have a hospice care plan that specifies the need for full bed rails. This requirement is not met as evidenced by: LPA observed R2 with full bed rails. R2 is not on hospice. R2 may only have half bed rails which poses a potential health and safety risk to persons in care.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Apr 17, 2026

Plan of correction: AD stated full bed rails will be removed from R2's bed and replace with half rails

Type of visit: Required - 1 Year

On October 3, 2025, at 8:00am, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Eboni Bentley conducted an unannounced required 1-Year annual visit using the CARE Inspection Tool. Upon arrival at the facility, LPA Bentley was greeted and granted entry by Caregiver (CG) Olimpia Lang, after stating the purpose of the visit. Administrator (AD) Sheryl Tongol arrived at the facility at short time later and was present throughout the inspection. The facility is licensed to operate for six (6) non-ambulatory residents, of which one (1) may be bedridden, and has a hospice waiver for four (4) residents. The building is a single story structure located in a residential neighborhood. It consists of the following: six (6) resident bedrooms, one (1) staff bedroom, four (4) bathrooms, living room area, dining area, kitchen, an outdoor covered seating areas, and an attached two car garage. During the inspection, LPA obtained copies facility records including: Resident/Staff Roster, LIC 500 (Personnel Record), Staff Schedules for September and October 2025, and proof of Liability Insurance. Based on record review and interviews, S1 and S2 was not associated prior to working at the facility which poses an immediate Health, Safety, or Personal Rights risk to persons in care. Civil Penalties Assessed. LPA Bentley toured inside and outside of the physical plant with AD Tongol. There were no bodies of water or obstructions on the premises. All rooms were inspected. Beds and bedding supplies were in good condition, adequate lighting was provided, storage for each resident’s personal belongings was observed. Bed linens, comforters, and bath towels were adequately stocked and available at the time of visit. Bathrooms were found to be clean and operational. The water temperatures in four (4) bathrooms measured between 122.5 – 132.9 degrees F. A deficiency is being cited. Continues on LIC 809-C A comfortable temperature of 76 degrees F was maintained in the facility. LPA Bentley observed the facility to be sanitary and appropriately furnished at the time of the visit. Storage areas for personal hygiene, cleaning supplies, toxins, and sharps objects were stored and not accessible to residents. The kitchen was inspected and there is a two-day supply of perishable and seven-day supply of non-perishable food available and maintained properly. Emergency safety drills were last conducted on July 11, 2025, and conducted quarterly. First aid kit is maintained and contains all the necessary elements. During the visit, the smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors were tested and operable. A working telephone (714-594-3568) remains available, and the facility has a device that can be used for video teleconference purposes. Emergency food, emergency water, and emergency supplies were stored in the garage. The facility has two (2) fire extinguishers that were charged, mounted, and last serviced on July 11, 2025. Liability Insurance is effective November 18, 2024, and expires on November 18, 2025. LPA Bentley conducted an audit of six (6) resident files (R1-R6), five (5) staff files (S1-S5), and medication and medication administration review were conducted. A review of six medication administration records revealed inconsistencies, and a deficiency is being cited. During the visit, LPA Bentley conducted resident interviews and staff interviews regarding care provided. Based on observations, deficiencies and civil penalties are being cited during this visit as per Title 22 Division 6 of the California Code of Regulations. An exit interview was conducted, and a copy of this report, LIC809-D, LIC811s, LIC421BG, and appeal rights were provided to Administrator Sheryl Tongol at the end of the visit.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Oct 3, 2025

Type of visit: Required - 1 Year

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Lydia Martinez made an unannounced visit to the facility to conduct a Required - 1 year inspection. LPA identified herself and was granted entry into the facility by Caregiver (CG) Olimpia Lang and Jerry Benadas. LPA noted facility to be clean, safe and sanitary. Representative Kian Pascual arrived shortly after. Administrator Donnavee Lalap's certificate expired on 03/10/2024. LPA could not verify that AD has submitted a Renewal application. Facility has no active Administrator. Six Residents and 2 staff were present during today's visit. LPA, along with CG Lang toured the physical plant. LPA observed the facility to be clean and in good repair. The home is maintained at a comfortable temperature. Resident bedrooms had the required furniture, bed linens and closet/drawer space to accommodate each Resident comfortably. Bathrooms were checked, toilets/water faucets worked properly and showers are free of mold/mildew. Hot water temperature is within regulatory requirements. Bath towels, toiletries and personal hygiene supplies were adequately stocked. Common areas were clean and clear of hazards, doorways were free of obstructions. Kitchen is clean and organized. Perishable and non-perishable food supply was checked and adequately stocked. LPA observed sharps and cleaning supplies are inaccessible to the residents. Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detector tested operational. Fire extinguisher was fully charged and mounted. No bodies of water were observed outside. Walkways around the home were clear of hazards. Exit gates were unlocked and self latching. Backyard has a covered patio with patio furniture for outdoor activities and sufficient seating for Residents and visitors. Emergency/Fire Drills are conducted last one being 09/19/2024. LPA observed emergency supplies including food and water. LPA reviewed 6 Resident files and 2 staff file. Resident and staff files contained required documentation, such as First Aid/CPR, training, etc. Medication was observed to be in a centrally stored location and medication reviewed appeared to have been dispensed accurately. Based on the observations made during today’s inspection, deficiencies are being cited per Title 22 Division 6 of the California Code of Regulations. An exit interview was conducted and a copy of LIC809, LIC809D, LIC9102 and Appeal Rights were sent to email on file.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Nov 1, 2024