Thessalonica Home Care

Type of visit: Required - 1 Year

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Martha Arroyo arrived at the facility unannounced to conduct the required annual visit today. Upon arrival, the LPA was greeted by staff, who then contacted the Administrator and informed them of the visit. The Facility Designee (FD), Natalia Dela arrived shortly after and the reason for the visit was explained. Entrance interview conducted. Beginning at 10:35am, the LPA along with the FD toured the physical plant areas inside and outside to ensure there are no health and safety hazards, and facility is in compliance with Title 22 Regulations. The following was observed: Kitchen: The LPA inspected the kitchen/food service area at approximately 10:39am. Knives and sharps were observed in a locked drawer. Kitchen appliances were in operable condition. The facility has a sufficient supply of perishable and non-perishable food. Refrigerator and food pantry were checked for proper labels and expiration dates. At 10:42am, the water temperature was checked in the kitchen sink, and it read 105.9 degrees Fahrenheit. Bedrooms: There are four (4) bedrooms for resident use. Two (2) bedrooms are designated as private / single occupancy, and two (2) bedrooms are designated as shared / double occupancy. Bedrooms were observed to be furnished appropriately and had sufficient lighting. Additional clean linens and towels were observed in a hallway cabinet. Report Continued on LIC 809C... Report Continued from LIC 809... Restrooms: There are two (2) restrooms for resident use. Bathrooms were relatively clean and fixtures were in operating condition. Grab bars and non-skid surfaces were observed inside the showers. The bathrooms were sufficiently stocked with hand soap and towels. Starting at 10:49am, the hot water temperature was measured in resident bathrooms, and they measured between 105 and 120 degrees Fahrenheit, which is within the required range. Personal hygiene items were observed inaccessible to residents at the time of the visit. Common Areas: This includes the living room and dining room area. Furniture in the common areas was observed to be in good condition at the time of the visit. The facility maintained a comfortable temperature. The LPA observed a fire extinguisher to be fully charged with a purchase date of 06/15/2026. Required postings were observed throughout the common space. There is a working telephone on premises. The LPA observed a fireplace in the living room; adequately screened. No hazards/obstructions observed inside or out. Garage: The garage was locked at the time of the visit. A sufficient supply of emergency food and water was observed. Cleaning supplies and toxins were observed locked and inaccessible at the time of the visit. Laundry Room: Washer and dryer were observed in the laundry room. Detergents were observed in a locked cabinet at the time of the visit. Outdoors: The backyard has a covered patio area with adequate furniture for resident use. Emergency passageway was observed to be clear of any obstructions. There are two (2) side gates with latching mechanisms for emergency purposes. No bodies of water noted at the time of the visit. Report Continued on LIC 809C... Report Continued from LIC 809C... Records: Record review began at approximately 11:10am. Four (4) resident files were reviewed for, but not limited to, the following: signed admission agreements, current medical assessments with TB results, consent for treatment form, preplacement appraisals, appraisals, and current needs and services plan. Files were in order. Four (4) personnel files were reviewed for, but not limited to: personnel records, health assessments with negative TB test results, criminal record clearances, first aid/CPR training, and the appropriate yearly training. Files were complete. Emergency Disaster Planning: During today’s visit, the LPA reviewed the facility's emergency disaster plan, which was observed to be complete and recently reviewed/updated. Emergency disaster drills conducted quarterly as per regulation; last disaster drill conducted on 06/23/2026. Medications: Medication review began at approximately 01:15pm. Medications are centrally stored and kept in a locked cabinet inside an office. All medications including PRNs were labeled, stored, and locked inaccessible to residents in care. First aid kit was observed to be complete. Medications appear to be administered as prescribed at the time of the visit. No citations issued at this time. Exit interview. A copy of the report was issued.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Jul 20, 2026

Allegation investigated: Staff do not ensure residents medical needs are met.

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA), Martha Arroyo conducted a subsequent complaint visit to the above facility. The purpose of the visit is to deliver findings for the above noted allegation. The initial complaint visit was conducted on 03/13/2026 by LPA M. Arroyo. On today's visit, the LPA met with Administrator, Nida Tapel. Entrance interview. During the initial visit on 03/13/2026, the LPA conducted a plant tour at 12:50 p.m., conducted interviews with the Administrator, a family member, and a resident between 01:20 p.m. and 03:15 p.m., and conducted a resident file review and obtained copies of pertinent documents relevant to the investigation. During the course of the investigation, additional interviews were conducted with Resident #1 (R1), R1’s Power of Attorney (POA), and Licensee Representative. Report Continued on LIC 9099C... Unsubstantiated Report Continued from LIC 9099... It was alleged that staff do not ensure resident’s medical needs are met. It was reported that R1 may have been developing a urinary tract infection (UTI), and facility staff were made aware of the concern. However, staff may not have been providing adequate and timely care to address the resident’s needs. Record review and interviews conducted revealed that R1 was admitted to the facility on 07/19/2024. According to R1’s physician’s report dated 07/19/2024, the primary diagnoses included Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), acute UTI due to Pseudomonas, acute urinary retention, and ventral hernia, with a secondary diagnosis of hypertensive urgency. The report noted R1’s mental condition as confused and disoriented, with sundowning behavior. However, R1 was able to follow instructions and communicate their needs. The report also described R1 as ambulatory and able to dress, groom, and feed themselves, but requiring assistance with bathing and toileting. Per R1’s admission agreement dated 07/19/2024, page 4 under “Basic Services” states that the facility will assist with transportation by arranging services through a third-party provider upon request. Interviews indicated that when R1 expressed concern about a possible UTI, the information was immediately reported to R1’s POA. However, the POA stated they were unable to take R1 to a doctor’s appointment. Staff reported that R1 was offered transportation options, including a transit bus or a rideshare service such as Uber, to see their doctor. Staff further stated that they attempted to arrange transportation for R1, but R1 was reluctant to use public transportation. An interview with R1 corroborated staff statements that transportation was offered. However, R1 stated they were unfamiliar with public transportation and did not feel comfortable riding in a car with an unknown individual; therefore, they refused the offered transportation. Additionally, during interviews, R1’s POA expressed that they believed the facility was adequately caring for R1 and meeting their needs. Although the allegation may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove that the alleged violation occurred. Therefore, the allegation is deemed Unsubstantiated at this time. Exit interview conducted. A copy of the report was provided.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Apr 7, 2026 · control 29-AS-20260313091002

Type of visit: Case Management - Deficiencies

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Martha Arroyo conducted a Case Management - Deficiencies visit in conjunction with a complaint visit (Complaint Control # 29-AS-20260313091002). The purpose of the visit is to issue a citation for deficiencies observed during the investigation. During the investigation, it was revealed that Resident #1 (R1) was admitted to the facility on 07/19/2024. A review of R1’s admission agreement indicated that the responsible party signed the agreement on 09/05/2024, which is beyond the required seven (7) days following admission. Additionally, the admission agreement is missing the signature and date of the Licensee and/or Administrator on the last page. Furthermore, during the facility tour, the LPA observed that Resident #2’s (R2’s) bed had full bed rails. A review of R2’s physician’s report dated 06/20/2024 indicates that R2 lacks the capacity for self-care. Staff interviews revealed that R2 was previously on hospice but has since been discharged and is no longer receiving hospice services. As of today, R2 is not on hospice care, and there is no approved exception request on file with the Department. R2's family stated that there is an appointment scheduled for R2 to see if they qualified for hospice services this week. Pursuant to Title 22 of the CA Code of Regulations, the following deficiencies were cited. (refer to LIC 809-D) Exit interview was conducted. A copy of the report and appeal rights were provided.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Apr 7, 2026

From the deficiency page — Deficiency type: Type B · Section cited: CCR 87507(c) · Plan of correction due date: Apr 7, 2026

87507(c) Admission agreements shall be signed and dated, by the resident or the resident’s representative, if any, and the licensee or the licensee’s designated representative no later than seven days following admission. This requirement was not met as evidence by: Based on record review, the Licensee did not comply with the section cited above as R1’s admissions agreement is missing the Licensee’s or Administrator’s signature and date and was not completed within seven (7) days following admission, which poses a potential health and safety risk to resident in care.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Apr 7, 2026

Plan of correction: Administrator signed and dated Admissions Agreement. Administrator acknowledged understanding in completing all necessary documents in a timely manner.

From the deficiency page — Deficiency type: Type B · Section cited: CCR87608(a)(5)(B) · Plan of correction due date: Apr 10, 2026

87608(a)(5)(B) (B) 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: Based on observation, interview, and record review, the licensee did not comply with the section cited above as a full bed rail was observed on R2’s bed and they are not currently on hospice, which poses a potential health, safety or personal rights risk to persons in care.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Apr 7, 2026

Plan of correction: Administrator agreed to remove the full bed rails from R1’s bed. Administrator acknowledged understanding full rails is a form of restraint and not allowed unless under hospice services.

From the deficiency page — Deficiency type: Type B · Section cited: CCR 87615(a)(5) · Plan of correction due date: Apr 10, 2026

87615(a)(5) Persons who require health services for or have a health condition including, but not limited to, those specified below shall not be admitted or retained in a residential care facility for the elderly: Residents who depend on others to perform all activities of daily living…This requirement is not met as evidenced by: Based on observation and record review, the licensee did not comply with the section cited above as R2 has no capacity for self-care and is not on hospice and no record of an exception is on file, which poses a potential health, safety, or personal rights risk to persons in care.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Apr 7, 2026

Plan of correction: Administrator will review regulations and provide CCL a statement of understanding by POC due date. Administrator will ask POA to contact hospice agency to assess resident. If they do not qualify for hospice services, licensee will apply for an exception with CCL.

Type of visit: Required - 1 Year

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Martha Arroyo arrived at the facility unannounced to conduct a required annual visit. Upon arrival, the LPA met with staff and explained the reason for the visit. The Administrator was unavailable during today’s visit, but designated staff to sign report. Entrance interview conducted. Starting at 09:50am, the LPA along with staff toured the physical plant areas inside and outside to ensure there are no health and safety hazards and facility is in compliance with Title 22 Regulations. The following was observed: KITCHEN: The LPA inspected the kitchen/food service area at 10:05am. Knives and sharps were observed in a locked drawer inaccessible to residents in care. Cleaning supplies were kept locked and inaccessible under the kitchen sink at the time of the visit. Kitchen appliances were in operable condition. The facility has a sufficient supply of perishable and non-perishable food. Refrigerator and food pantry were checked for proper labels and expiration dates. Hot water temperature was checked in kitchen faucet, and it measured 113.00 degrees Fahrenheit. COMMON AREAS: At the time of the visit, furniture in the common areas was observed to be in good condition. The facility maintained a comfortable temperature. The LPA observed the fire extinguisher to be fully charged with a date of 06/15/2025. Report Continued on LIC 809C... Report Continued from LIC 809... Required postings were observed throughout the common space. The LPA observed a fireplace adequately covered at the time of the visit. Activities were observed in the living room. There is a working telephone on premises. The LPA observed a closet in the hallway with additional clean linens and towels. Auditory alarms were observed at the time of the visit. The LPA observed an adequate supply of emergency food and water. At 10:12am, the smoke detectors and fire door were tested and operational at the time of the visit. No obstructions or hazards observed inside or out. LAUNDRY ROOM: There is a laundry room with a washer and dryer. Laundry detergents and toxins were observed locked and inaccessible at the time of the visit. RESTROOMS: There are two (2) restrooms for resident use. One (1) bathroom is located by the main hallway and the second bathroom is located inside bedroom #2. Bathrooms were clean and sanitary and in operating condition with grab bars and non-skid surfaces. The bathrooms were sufficiently stocked with supplies and paper towels. Personal hygiene items were also observed locked under the sink at the time of the visit. Starting at 09:55am, the hot water temperature was measured in bathrooms, and they measured within the required range of 105 – 120 degrees Fahrenheit at the time of the inspection. BEDROOMS: There are four (4) bedrooms for resident use. Two (2) bedrooms are designated for double occupancy and two (2) bedrooms are designated for private / single occupancy. All resident rooms were observed to be furnished appropriately with linens, appropriate furnishings, and sufficient lighting. Bedrooms #1, #2, and #3 were observed to have access to the outside perimeter. The LPA observed a staff room on premises which was inaccessible to residents in care at the time of the inspection. Report Continued on LIC 809C... Report Continued from LIC 809C... OUTDOORS / BACKYARD: The backyard was observed with a shaded area with appropriate furniture for resident use. There are two (2) side gates that self-latch. All passageways were observed to be clear of any obstructions. No bodies of water noted at the time of the visit. RECORDS: The LPA reviewed Resident Records and Personnel Records starting at 10:20am. Five (5) resident files were reviewed for, but not limited to, the following: signed admission agreements, current medical assessments with TB results, preplacement appraisals, consent for treatment form, and current needs and services plan. Three (3) personnel files were reviewed for, but not limited to: personnel records, health assessments, criminal record clearances, first aid/CPR training, and the appropriate yearly training. During record review, it was revealed that facility does not have a staff training binder; therefore, LPA was unable to verify yearly training. Additionally, staff on premises do not have current first aid/cpr training. Staff stated they will complete training by today. INFECTION CONTROL/EMERGENCY DISASTER PLANNING: During today’s visit, the LPA reviewed the facility's infection control plan. The facility’s policies and procedures as it pertains to infection control are adequate. Emergency disaster drills conducted quarterly as per regulation; most current drill conducted on 05/03/2025. MEDICATIONS: Medications review began at approximately 12:15pm. Medications are centrally stored in a locked closet by the main hallway. First Aid Kit and manual were observed and complete at time of the visit. Medications appeared to be given as prescribed at the time of the visit. Pursuant to Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations Division 6, Chapter 8, the following deficiencies were cited (refer to LIC 809-D). Failure to correct the deficiencies may result in additional civil penalties. Exit interview conducted. A copy of the report and appeal rights were provided.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Jun 30, 2025

Type of visit: Prelicensing

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Brian Balisi conducted a pre-licensing visit to the above noted facility. The LPA met with applicant Tinamarie Costales. This is a Change of Ownership (CHOW). The facility is currently licensed under Buenaville Assisted Living, LLC #567609984. A dementia program was included in the plan of operation. A Hospice Waiver has been requested. The current capacity is for six (6) clients. The fire clearance was granted for five (5) non-ambulatory clients and one (1) bedridden client. There are currently four (4) residents in care. The facility is one story. At approx. 10:00am, a physical plant tour was conducted inside and out. The facility has four (4) private resident bedrooms. Resident rooms #1, #2 and #3 have a direct exit to the outside. There are no fire sprinklers in the facility. Main bedroom hallway and all resident bedrooms were observed equipped with fire door. All resident rooms are set up with beds, nightstands, lamps, chests of drawers, chairs and closet space. The beds are furnished with box springs, comfortable mattress and clean linen; which includes, a mattress pad, top and bottom linens, pillowcases, blanket (if needed) and a bedspread. Lighting in the rooms appeared adequate. In addition, no bedroom was used as a passageway to another room, bath or toilet. There is a staff room at the facility located next to the kitchen. LPA observed room to be inaccessible to residents in care. For NOC , there will be awake night staff only. All rooms were free of odors. All window screens were clean and maintained in good repair. There are two (2) bathrooms total. The resident bathroom(s) have a shower with non-skid materials. The toilet and shower have grab bars. The hot water temperature was tested in the bathrooms and the kitchen and was found to be within the range of 105*F and 120*F. Resident and staff records are to be stored inaccessible in a hallway closet. Medications are centrally stored inaccessible in a locked hallway closet. The first aid supplies were complete , including a thermometer and a current version of a first aid manual. First aid was observed stored inaccessible in the hallway closet as well. Kitchen knives are stored in accessible in a drawer to the left of the fridge. Stove burners are rendered inaccessible to the residents by placing a safety lock on them when not in use. The supply of dishes, utensils, pots, pans and drinkware is adequate. The freezer was maintained at zero degrees Fahrenheit (0*F) and the refrigerator was maintained at 40*F. The supply of nonperishable food is adequate. There are no pesticides (poisons) or toxins stored in any food storage area or preparation area with utensils. Appliances in the kitchen were clean and all appeared functional at the time of the visit. Trash cans had tight fitting lids. No flies or other vermin were observed. The common areas were appropriately furnished, and the lighting was adequate. There is a television and other entertainment equipment, games and/or activity supplies in the living room. There was sufficient space to accommodate both indoor and outdoor activities. Night lights were maintained in hallways and passageways to non private bathrooms. There is a fireplace in the living room that is non-operable at this time. It is screened and there are no tools. The facility has emergency exit signs . The facility has a furnace, which is able to heat rooms that residents occupy to a minimum of 68 degrees Fahrenheit; and, they have central air conditioning and are able to cool rooms to a comfortable range, not to exceed 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The facility smoke alarm system is battery operated. The smoke detector and carbon monoxide detectors were tested and functioned properly during the time of visit. Fire extinguishers were observed fully charged and last serviced in June 15, 2024. The laundry room is located in the garage entry way. Cleaning supplies and toxins were observed stored here and the room will be inaccessible to residents in care. There is an attached garage. LPA observed extra furniture and other supplies for facility use along with a supply of emergency food. Continued from 809-C There is cabinet located in the main hallway that stored an adequate supply of extra bed and bath linens. Cabinets are to be locked and inaccessible to residents in care. There is a functioning telephone on the premises. The emergency exiting plans/sketch are posted in the office area next to the kitchen. The emergency telephone numbers and other required postings are in this area as well. The exterior passageways were clean and clear of any obstructions. There is a covered patio area in the rear of the home. LPA observed appropriate furniture for outdoor use. The outside area was observed to be large enough to conduct outdoor activities. The entire property is fenced. The gate to the front courtyard has a gate with a self-latching mechanism for persons to enter the front courtyard. There is no body of water observed at this time. Component III was conducted in conjunction with the visit. No corrections required on a pre-licensing visit at this time. Exit interview conducted. Report issued and provided to Licensee. This report will be sent to the Centralized Application Bureau (CAB). You will be notified by the CAB Analyst when your license has been approved. You are not allowed to begin operating until you have been notified that your license has been approved by the CAB Analyst. Failure to comply could affect approval of your license.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Jul 11, 2024