ABUNDANT CARE II, a six‑bed residential care facility for the elderly in Santa Barbara, underwent an unannounced annual inspection on January 31, 2022. The licensing program analyst noted a well‑maintained one‑story building with functional fire and carbon monoxide detection, clean kitchen and dining areas, and private rooms with secure grab bars. All required regulatory posters and resident‑rights notices were displayed, and the facility’s physical environment was in good repair. No deficiencies were cited, and the evaluator recommended routine COVID‑19 screening protocols for visitors, staff, and residents returning from outings. The report was issued without comment, indicating that the facility was in compliance at that time.

A second inspection on December 21, 2022 revealed several lapses that had developed since the earlier visit. While the facility’s overall appearance and safety features remained satisfactory, the evaluator observed staff members not wearing face coverings correctly in common areas and identified unsecured medication storage. An unlocked cabinet near the microwave and a refrigerator in the pantry contained centrally stored medicines that were not locked, violating state regulations concerning safe medication custody. The evaluator cited two deficiencies under CCR 87468.1 and CCR 87465(h)(2), and required the administrator to submit corrective plans by December 23, 2022. The corrective actions included comprehensive infectious‑control training for all staff, updated COVID‑19 PIN review, and a secured medication storage protocol, with proof of training to be provided to the Division.

The contrast between the two visits highlights a pattern of solid foundational care—clean facilities, adequate fire safety, and clear resident‑rights communication—counterbalanced by emerging gaps in infection‑control compliance and medication security. The facility’s prompt submission of a mitigation plan after the December inspection suggests responsiveness, yet the repeated need for staff training on mask use underscores a persistent challenge in enforcing PPE protocols. Overall, ABUNDANT CARE II demonstrates strong environmental and procedural controls but must strengthen its adherence to infection‑control standards and medication storage regulations to maintain full compliance.