Sterling Senior Community II

Type of visit: Required - 1 Year

On August 14, 2026, Licensing Program Analysts (LPAs) Brandon Lopez and Tran Nguyen made an unannounced visit to the facility to conduct the required annual inspection. LPAs were greeted and granted entry into the facility by staff after explaining the purpose for the visit. Administrator (AD) Sheryl Tongol was notified via telephone and later arrived to assist with the inspection. LPAs observed that Sheryl Tongol has a valid Administrator certificate which expires on December 19, 2027. The facility is a Residential Care Facility for the Elderly (RCFE) licensed for six non-ambulatory resident, of which one can be bedridden. The facility also has an approved hospice waiver for five 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. LPAs, accompanied by the AD, conducted a tour of the interior portions of the facility. On today's visit, LPAs observed six residents in care and two care giving staff present. LPAs observed the See Something, Say Something poster (PUB475) mounted on the wall by the entryway of the facility. LPAs observed a fire extinguisher to also be mounted on the wall by the entryway of the facility. The fire extinguisher was observed to be charged and serviced as of May 21, 2026. LPAs inspected all six resident bedrooms and observed them to be free of hazards. LPAs observed resident bedrooms to have the required furnishings of a bed, a chair, a chest of drawers, and a lamp. LPAs observed resident beds to have clean linens and blankets. LPAs observed additional linens to be stored in a hallway closet. LPAs 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 116.6 and 116.7 degrees Fahrenheit. LPAs observed the staff bedroom to be kept locked and inaccessible to residents in care. CONTINUED ON LIC809-C LPAs 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. LPAs observed the five burner gas stove lights unassisted. LPAs observed kitchen knives and sharps to be stored in a locked kitchen cabinet. LPAs tested the individual smoke detectors which tested operational. LPAs tested the individual carbon monoxide detectors which tested operational. LPAs observed the facility conducted their last emergency disaster drill on April 2, 2026. LPAs observed the centrally stored medication to be kept in a locked cabinet located in the kitchen. LPAs observed the facility has a first aid kit stored in the locked cabinet and it had all the required components. LPAs observed the door leading to the attached two car garage to be kept locked and inaccessible to residents in care. LPAs observed the garage to be used for storage and laundry. LPAs observed chemicals and cleaning supplies to be kept in a locked cabinet in the garage. LPAs observed the facility has a three day emergency food and water supply stored in the garage. LPAs, 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. LPAs observed a shaded outdoor seating area with furniture for resident use in the backyard. LPAs observed the perimeter gate to be self latching and can be opened in an evacuation. There are no bodies of water on the premises. LPAs reviewed all six resident files. All the required documentation were present and current in the resident files reviewed. LPAs reviewed the residents' medication and medication records. LPAs reviewed three 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. An exit interview was conducted with Administrator Sheryl Tongol and a copy of the report was provided at time of visit.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Aug 14, 2026

Allegation investigated: Staff are not maintaining resident's room in a clean condition

An unannounced complaint investigation was conducted on this day by Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Claudia Gutierrez regarding the allegation mentioned above. LPA met with Administrator (ADs) Sheryl Tongol and Rhett Rakhshani. Complaint alleges Staff are not maintaining Resident 1’s (R1’s) room in a clean condition, including the bathroom located in R1’s room. On July 29, 2026, the Department received three photos depicting a brown substance on the outside of the toilet, on the wall, and on the tile floor. During their interview, R1 stated that their room is maintained clean due to staff's continuous cleaning, however, LPA observed and obtained a photo of the wall and toilet located in R1’s bathroom with the same brown substance as the photos received by on the Department on July 29, 2026. (Cont. LIC9099-C) Substantiated Based on the investigation, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met; therefore, the above allegation is found to be SUBSTANTIATED. Deficiencies are being cited per Title 22 Division 6 of the California Code of regulations. An exit interview was conducted, and a copy of this report and appeal rights was provided at the end of inspection.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Aug 6, 2026 · control 22-AS-20260729101433

From the deficiency page — Deficiency type: Type B · Section cited: CCR 87303(a) · Plan of correction due date: Aug 20, 2026

87303 Maintenance and Operation (a) The facility shall be clean, safe, sanitary and in good repair at all times... This requirement is not met as evidenced by: Based on observation, the Licensee did not comply with the section cited above as R1's bathroom toilet and wall have been stained with the same brown substance since July 29, 2026.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Aug 6, 2026

Plan of correction: AD stated toilet and wall will be cleaned immedately and a written plan of action to ensure clean and sanitary condications are maintained at all times will be submitted to LPA via email.

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

Type of visit: Required - 1 Year

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Hanna Gough arrived at the facility to conduct the required annual inspection. LPA was greeted and granted entry by staff. LPA met with Assistant Administrator Kian Pascual and discussed the purpose of the visit. The facility currently has six residents in care. The facility is a one story home with six resident bedrooms, one staff bedroom, four bathrooms, kitchen, living room, sitting room, dining room, and attached two car garage. Facility appears clean, safe and sanitary. LPA observed the kitchen to be free of vermin. LPA observed a two day perishable and seven day non-perishable food supply on hand. LPA observed the knives to be locked in a drawer made inaccessible to residents in care. LPA observed toxins and chemicals to be under the kitchen sink in a locked cabinet. LPA observed The centrally stored medication to be in a locked cabinet in the dining room, making them inaccessible to residents in care. LPA observed all resident bedrooms had the required components and furnishings. LPA observed the bathrooms to be stocked with toilet paper, paper towels, non-slip mats and flooring. LPA observed the water temperature in the bathrooms to be between 114-118.4 degrees Fahrenheit. LPA observed a clean supply of extra linens to be stored in the hall cabinet. LPA observed fire extinguishers throughout the facility to be charged and with a service date of April 21, 2025. LPA observed the garage to have extra refrigerators and freezers for food storage. LPA observed chemicals stored in the garage to be locked in a cabinet. LPA observed the emergency food and water supply to be stored in the garage. LPA observed the backyard to have shaded seating for resident use and is free of debris and obstructions. Continue on LIC 809-C LPA reviewed staff files and no discrepancies were observed. LPA reviewed resident files and 2 of 6 residents do not have TB tests on files. LPA observed 1 of 6 residents did not have a needs and services plan. LPA observed the centrally stored medication and 1 of 6 residents do not have prescriptions for 2 over the counter medications on file. LPA observed the last fire drill was conducted on June 3, 2025. LPA and staff tested the fire alarms and smoke detectors and they were found to be operational. All staff present are background cleared and associated to the facility. Based on today’s observations two citations and a technical violation are being given per Title 22 Division 6 of the California Code of Regulations. An exit interview was conducted with Assistant Administrator Kian Pascual and a copy of this report along with LIC809D, LIC858, technical violation, and appeal rights were left at the facility.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Aug 19, 2025

Type of visit: Required - 1 Year

On August 30, 2024, at 1:05pm, Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Edward Kim conducted an unannounced required 1-Year annual visit using the CARE Inspection Tool. Upon arrival at the facility, LPA Kim met with Administrator (AD) Kian Pascual, and explained the purpose of the visit. The facility is licensed to operate for six (6) non-ambulatory, of which one (1) can be bedridden and Hospice waiver for 3 residents. The facility 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, family area, dining room, kitchen, attached 2-car garage, and an outside covered patio area. LPA Kim toured indoor and outdoor of the physical plant with AD Pascual. There are no obstructions or bodies of water 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 at the time of visit. All bedrooms were inspected: Resident Room 1, Resident Room 2, Resident Room 3, Resident Room 4, Resident Room 5, Resident Room 6, and Staff Room 1. Bathrooms were found to be within Title 22 regulations and were clean and operational. The water temperature measured between 118.0 degrees F and 119.0 degrees F. A comfortable temperature of 78 degrees F was maintained in the facility. LPA Kim observed the facility to be sanitary and appropriately furnished at the time of 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 food and emergency water is stored in the garage. The facility has two (2) fire extinguisher that are charged, mounted in the living area and garage, and serviced on April 10, 2024. Smoke/carbon monoxide detectors were operable. The facility conducts Fire/Safety Drill quarterly . Evaluation Report Continues on LIC 809-C During the visit, LPA Kim observed the facility's infection control practices, plan of operation, and screening protocols for visitors, staff, and residents. LPA observed the facility has a 30-day supply of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). A working telephone (714-646-9919) remains available. First Aid Kit contained all the necessary elements. LPA conducted an audit of resident files (R1-R6), staff files (S1-S4) and medication and medication administration review. LPA Kim conducted 2 staff interviews and 2 resident interviews.. A deficiency was cited during this inspection visit according to the California Code of Regulations (Title 22, Division 6 Chapter 8). An exit interview was conducted and a copy of this report and the appeal rights were provided to Administrator Kian Pascual.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Aug 30, 2024

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) Esther Cortez conducted a 10-Day initial complaint visit to the facility at 9:20 a.m. The LPA was greeted by House Manager Irvin Ortiz and the reason for the visit was explained. Administrator Kian M. Pascual arrived shortly. The LPA toured the physical plant with House Manager Irvin, obtained pertinent documents, conducted a file review, conducted a medication audit, interviewed one (1) resident, one residents family member, and one (1) staff from 9:20 a.m to 5:30 p.m. Facility is in disrepair. On the allegation Facility is in disrepair, it is the reporting party’s concern that the facility is in despair. To investigate the allegation, the LPA conducted a physical plant tour with the administrator at 9:46 a.m Report will continue on LIC9099-C. Substantiated During the tour, the LPA observed missing blinds in resident rooms #3, #6, #7 and in the living room. At 9:50 a.m. the LPA observed the restroom in room #2 to be unkept with the resident’s toilet being soiled, and stains observed on the cabinet doors of the sink and residue stains on the sink. At 9:53 a.m. the LPA observed the resident’s restroom in room #3 to be unkempt with urine at the feet of the toilet and the room smelled of urine. At 10:13 a.m. during the kitchen physical tour the LPA observed the following food items expired: 1 half finished gallon of cranberry juice with best before date of 26 NOV23 and 7 Jars of Traditional Alfredo sauce with the best if used by SEP-07-23. At 10:21 a.m. the LPA observed the additional refrigerator in the garage with yellow stains on the door. Based on observations, there is sufficient evidence to support the above allegation of Facility is in disrepair occurred. Therefore, the allegation is deemed Substantiated at this time. Facility staff failed to properly administer resident’s medications and Facility failed to maintain complete and accurate resident records. On the allegations, of Facility staff failed to properly administer resident’s medications and Facility failed to maintain complete and accurate resident records, it is the reporting party’s concern that the facility has medication errors and incomplete resident records. To investigate the allegations, the LPA conducted a medication audit for three (3) out of six (6) residents at 1:18 p.m. The medications were stored in a locked cabinet in the dining room. During Resident #1 (R#1's) audit, the LPA observed Omeprazole not properly documented on the centrally stored medication and destruction record (CSMDR), as the Instructions did not match the prescription label. On the CSMDR, the instructions were documented as follows: take 1 cap po bid. When asked, staff revealed that bid meant twice a day, however the medications prescription label instructions read as follows: Take 1 capsule by mouth once daily before breakfast. The Medication Administration Record (MAR) reflects the medication only being given once daily, however when staff did a medication count of Omeprazole, the count was off, with three more capsules in the bottle than needed based on the start date. During R1’s audit, the LPA also observed Ezetimibe not properly documented on the CSMDR with the wrong expiration date and prescription number as the bottle did not have a prescription label and was an over-the-counter medication. The LPA also observed R1’s Losartan not properly documented on the CSMDR as the expiration date did not match the prescription label. Report will continue on LIC9099-C. During Resident #3’s (R3) audit, the LPA observed a bottle of Multivitamin Men 50+ without a prescription and not documented on the CSMDR. The LPA also observed R3’s Latanoprost 0.005% solution and Timolol Maleate 0.5% solution not documented on the CSMDR. Based on the medication audit and medication records review, there is sufficient evidence to support the above allegation of Facility staff failed to properly administer resident’s medications and Facility failed to maintain complete and accurate resident records. Therefore, the above allegations are deemed Substantiated at this time. Pursuant to Title 22 Division 6 of the California Code of Regulations the facility was in violation as follows (see 809-D): Exit interview conducted with administrator Kian Pascual. Today's reports and appeal rights were reviewed and issued. The LPA reviewed the facility schedule and observed two (2) to three (3) staff members on schedule during the morning/day shift (8:00 a.m-8:00 p.m.), and one staff member on schedule during the night shift (8:00 p.m.-8:00 a.m.) to take care of six residents. The LPA also observed an on-call staff on the schedule. When the LPA arrived for today’s visit the LPA observed two staff present caring for six residents. Staff were observed by the LPA to be taking care of the residents and assisting the residents every time the residents would call throughout the visit. During today’s visit the LPA also interviewed Resident #3’s (R3) family member. R3’s family members interview revealed that in combination with their daughter, they come to visit R3 around five (5) times a week and that there’s always at least two to three staff on shift. R3’s family member also stated that staff is “always very responsive” and that they have no concerns regarding the care R3 receives. Staff interviewed (Staff #1) revealed that there’s always two staff working during the morning/day shift and one staff during the night shift. S1 also revealed that if night shift staff needs assistance, they can call for assistance to the staff that lives in the facility by knocking on their door. The LPA also interviewed one (1) resident (Resident #2) to investigate the allegation, and R2’s interview revealed that they do not require assistance from the staff. Based on interviews, observation and file review, the allegation Facility is not adequately staffed is deemed unsubstantiated at this time. Facility failed to maintain a complete and accurate staff records. Regarding the allegation: Facility failed to maintain a complete and accurate staff records, the LPA conducted a file review to investigate the allegation. The LPA reviewed five (5) out of ten (10) staff files. The LPA reviewed five staff files for, but not limited to, the following: personnel records, health screening, criminal record statements, and current first aid/CPR cards. All files were complete. Based on file review, Facility failed to maintain a complete and accurate staff records is deemed unsubstantiated at this time. Exit interview conducted and report issued to Administrator Kian Pascual.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Dec 12, 2023 · control 22-AS-20231211123251

From the deficiency page — Deficiency type: Type B · Section cited: CCR 87303(a) · Plan of correction due date: Dec 22, 2023

Maintenance and Operation 87303 (a) The facility shall be clean, safe, sanitary and in good repair at all times. This requirement is not met as evidenced by; Based on observation, the licensee did not comply with the section cited above as the three resident rooms and the living room were missing window blinds, restrooms were not clean and sanitary and facility had expired food which poses a potential health and safety risk to residents in care.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Dec 12, 2023

Plan of correction: Upon observation staff cleaned residents restrooms. The administrator has agreed to replace all missing blinds and complete a food audit and submit photos or self certification to LPA by 12/22/23..

From the deficiency page — Deficiency type: Type B · Section cited: CCR 87465(h)(6) · Plan of correction due date: Dec 22, 2023

Type B 87465 Incidental Medical and Dental Care (h) (6)The licensee shall be responsible for assuring that a record of centrally stored prescription medications for each resident is maintained for at least one year and includes:…… This requirement is not met as evidenced by; Based on observations and record review, the licensee did not comply with the section cited above as the licensee failed properly document R1 and R3’s medications on the CSMDR which poses a potential health and safety risk to residents in care.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Dec 12, 2023

Plan of correction: Administrator will update the centrally stored to reflect medcaiton not recored. Administrator will conduct staff training on medications and submit proof to LPA by 12/22/23.

From the deficiency page — Deficiency type: Type A · Section cited: CCR 87465(a)(4) · Plan of correction due date: Dec 13, 2023

Type A 87465 Incidental Medical and Dental Care(a)(4) The licensee shall assist residents with self-administered medications as needed. This requirement is not met as evidenced by; Based on observation, the licensee did not comply with the section cited above as based on a medication audit and record review R1 did not receive there medication as prescribed which poses an immediate health and safety risk to R1 in care.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Dec 12, 2023

Plan of correction: Adminastrator agree to provide medication training with all staff who assisting residents with medications. Administrator will send the LPA a notice of when training is schedule by 12/13/23 and proof that training has been completed no later than 12/22/23.

Type of visit: Case Management - Deficiencies

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Esther Cortez conducted an unannounced Case Management – Deficiencies inspection at the facility today due to deficiencies observed during the investigation of complaint control # 22-AS-20231211123251. LPA met with administrator Kian Pascual and explained the reason for the report. During the inspection, LPA Cortez observed the following deficiencies. At 9:47 a.m., the LPA observed prescribed Tobramycin-dexameth Ophth medication, earwax removal aid and Benadryl itch stopping gel in resident room #1 unsecured and accessible to residents in care. At 10:01 a.m., the LPA observed MAREE keratin & vitamins superfood hair complex leave-in serum capsules, triple antibiotic ointment and a pair of scissors in an unlocked staff room. At 10:05 a.m., the LPA observed prescribed Triamcinolone .1% cream medication, Calmoseptine ointment, and Theraworx relief for muscle cramps foam in resident room #6 unsecured and accessible to residents. At 10:06 a.m., the LPA observed prescribed Triamcinolone 0.1% ointment medication, Neosporin, Tinacin athletes foot cream, refresh tears in resident room #7 unsecured and accessible to residents in care. At 10:14 a.m., the LPA observed Severe Cold & Flu maximum strength medication, and prescribed Debrox earwax removal kit inside the kitchen refrigerator unsecured and accessible to residents in care. At 10:20 a.m., the LPA observed prescribed Dorzolamide-Timolol eye drops, prescribed Latanoprost 0.005% solution, and Cranberry liquid herbal supplement inside the unlocked garage unsecured and accessible to residents in care. The LPA also observed several grooming and hygiene items throughout the facility. The facility serves residents with dementia who are at risk if they have direct access to personal grooming and hygiene items per their Physicians report. Pursuant to Title 22 of the CA Code of Regulations, the following deficiencies were cited (refer to LIC 809-D): Exit interview conducted and copy of the report and appeal rights provided.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Dec 12, 2023

From the deficiency page — Deficiency type: Type A · Section cited: CCR 87705(f)(2) · Plan of correction due date: Dec 13, 2023

87705 (f)(2) Care of Persons with Dementia (f) The following shall be stored inaccessible to residents with dementia: (2) Over-the-counter medication... vitamins....This requirement is not met as evidenced by: Based on observation, the license did not comply with the section cited above as the LPA observed medications in the facility accessible to residents which poses an immediate health and safety risk to residents in care.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Dec 12, 2023

Plan of correction: Upon observation staff removed all medications, and locked both staff room and garage. POC has been met.

From the deficiency page — Deficiency type: Type A · Section cited: CCR87705(g)(1) · Plan of correction due date: Dec 22, 2023

87705(g)(1) Care of Persons with Dementia. … Residents with dementia shall be allowed to keep personal grooming and hygiene items … unless there is evidence to substantiate that the resident cannot safely manage the items. This requirement is not met as evidenced by: Based on observation and record review, the licensee did not comply in the section cited above for two residents (R1,R4), which poses an immediate health and safety risk to resident in care.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Dec 12, 2023

Plan of correction: The Administrator agreed to the following: 1. Secure the items by the end of the day. Inform CCL when this has taken place 2. Conduct an in-service training with care staff, regarding items that shall be inaccessible to residents with dementia. Submit sign-in sheet no later than 12/22/2023. Submit POC to CCLASCPWoodlandHillRO@dss.ca.gov,