Inspection Reports for Merrill Gardens at Monterey
200 Iris Canyon Rd, Monterey, CA 93940, CA, 93940
Back to Facility ProfileInspection Report Summary
Most inspections found no deficiencies, including the most recent annual inspection on May 21, 2025, which was clean and showed the facility to be safe, clean, and well-maintained. Earlier reports included some deficiencies related primarily to medication management and resident care, such as a medication error in July 2024 that resulted in hospitalization and failure to assist residents with activities of daily living substantiated in January 2024. Other issues involved incomplete medical assessments and communication lapses, but these were isolated and addressed. Several complaint investigations were unsubstantiated, including concerns about elevator safety, food service, and resident treatment. The facility’s record shows improvement over time, with recent inspections free of deficiencies and no enforcement actions or fines listed in the available reports.
Deficiencies per Year
4
3
2
1
0
High
Moderate
Unclassified
Census Over Time
Census
Capacity
Inspection Report
Annual Inspection
Census: 150
Capacity: 150
Deficiencies: 0
May 21, 2025
Visit Reason
The inspection was an unannounced required annual inspection conducted to evaluate compliance with licensing requirements at Merrill Gardens at Monterey.
Findings
The facility was found to be in good condition with no deficiencies issued. Resident rooms, common areas, dining, kitchen, medication storage, and outdoor areas were all observed to be safe, clean, and properly maintained.
Report Facts
Fire extinguisher service date: Jan 2, 2025
Last fire drill date: Apr 16, 2025
Refrigerator temperature: 35
Freezer temperature: 0
Hot water temperature: 112
Employees Mentioned
| Name | Title | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Tiffaney Santoro | Administrator | Met with Licensing Program Analyst during inspection |
| Vadim Gorban | Licensing Program Analyst | Conducted the inspection |
| Brenda Chan | Licensing Program Manager | Named in report header |
Inspection Report
Complaint Investigation
Census: 115
Capacity: 150
Deficiencies: 0
Dec 14, 2024
Visit Reason
An unannounced complaint investigation visit was conducted in response to multiple allegations received on 2024-05-31 regarding staff qualifications, resident assessments, food service, activities, cleanliness, appointment reminders, shower assistance, pet care, and meeting residents' needs.
Findings
All allegations investigated were found to be unsubstantiated due to lack of preponderance of evidence. Interviews with residents and staff, review of documentation, and observations indicated that staff were qualified, residents were properly assessed, food service was adequate, activities were provided, rooms were kept clean, appointments were managed, showers were given as requested, pets were not the facility's responsibility, and residents' needs were met.
Complaint Details
The complaint investigation was unsubstantiated. Allegations included unqualified staff left in charge, improper resident assessments, inadequate resident checks, insufficient food service, lack of activities, unclean rooms, failure to remind about appointments, failure to ensure showers, failure to care for resident's dog, and failure to meet residents' needs. None were substantiated based on evidence gathered.
Report Facts
Capacity: 150
Census: 115
Complaint receipt date: May 31, 2024
Employees Mentioned
| Name | Title | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Sarah Hurt | Licensing Program Analyst | Conducted the complaint investigation visit and authored the report |
| Jaime Rios | Senior Executive Chef | Met with Licensing Program Analyst during the investigation and participated in exit interview |
| Tiffaney Santoro | Administrator | Facility administrator named in the report |
Inspection Report
Complaint Investigation
Census: 112
Capacity: 150
Deficiencies: 0
Jul 27, 2024
Visit Reason
The inspection was an unannounced complaint investigation visit conducted to investigate allegations that staff did not ensure the elevator was in good repair and that special food service was not served with accuracy for residents in care.
Findings
The investigation found that although there was an issue with one elevator being out of service temporarily, another elevator was available and accommodations were made for residents. The food service delivery during the elevator outage was reported to be prompt and accurate. There was insufficient evidence to substantiate the allegations, and no deficiencies were cited.
Complaint Details
The complaint investigation was unsubstantiated as there was no preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violations occurred. The elevator issue was temporary and managed appropriately, and the food service was delivered accurately.
Report Facts
Capacity: 150
Census: 112
Employees Mentioned
| Name | Title | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Sarah Hurt | Licensing Program Analyst | Conducted the complaint investigation |
| Jaime Rios | Executive Chef | Met with the Licensing Program Analyst during the investigation and participated in the exit interview |
| Tiffaney Santoro | Administrator | Provided information regarding the elevator issue |
| Brenda Chan | Licensing Program Manager | Named in the report as Licensing Program Manager |
Inspection Report
Census: 110
Capacity: 150
Deficiencies: 1
Jul 17, 2024
Visit Reason
The visit was an unannounced Case Management inspection conducted to review facility compliance and investigate a reported medication error.
Findings
The facility reported a medication error where Resident 1 was given medication intended for another resident, resulting in hospitalization. Staff involved received training and were removed from medication technician in training duties. Deficiencies were cited related to incidental medical and dental care per Title 22 regulations.
Severity Breakdown
Type A: 1
Deficiencies (1)
| Description | Severity |
|---|---|
| Resident 1 was given incorrect medication on 07/11/2024 resulting in a hospital visit, posing an immediate health, safety, or personal rights risk to residents in care. | Type A |
Report Facts
Deficiencies cited: 1
Employees Mentioned
| Name | Title | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Tiffaney Santoro | Administrator | Met with Licensing Program Analyst during inspection and named in report |
| Sarah Hurt | Licensing Program Analyst | Conducted the unannounced visit and authored the report |
| Brenda Chan | Licensing Program Manager | Named as supervisor in the report |
Inspection Report
Annual Inspection
Census: 110
Capacity: 150
Deficiencies: 1
May 28, 2024
Visit Reason
The inspection was an unannounced required annual inspection conducted to evaluate compliance with licensing regulations.
Findings
The facility was generally found to be clean, safe, and well-maintained with proper emergency preparedness. However, two residents with dementia did not have the required annual medical assessment and reappraisal completed as mandated by Title 22 regulations.
Deficiencies (1)
| Description |
|---|
| Two residents with dementia did not have an annual medical assessment and reappraisal completed as required by Title 22 regulations. |
Report Facts
Residents without required annual medical assessment: 2
Total resident files reviewed: 10
Plan of Correction Due Date: May 31, 2024
Employees Mentioned
| Name | Title | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Tiffaney Santoro | Executive Director | Met with Licensing Program Analyst during inspection and agreed to plan of correction. |
| David Ayers | Licensing Program Analyst | Conducted the inspection and authored the report. |
| Brenda Chan | Licensing Program Manager | Named as Licensing Program Manager overseeing the inspection. |
Inspection Report
Complaint Investigation
Census: 122
Capacity: 150
Deficiencies: 0
Mar 7, 2024
Visit Reason
The inspection was an unannounced complaint investigation triggered by a complaint received on 2024-02-28 regarding a resident being trapped in the elevator due to the facility not obtaining back-up power.
Findings
The investigation found that on 2024-02-04, a resident was trapped in the elevator for approximately two hours during a power outage. The elevator was opened by emergency responders, was properly serviced and maintained, and no resident was injured. The allegation was unsubstantiated due to lack of preponderance of evidence.
Complaint Details
The complaint alleged a resident was trapped in the elevator due to lack of back-up power. The allegation was unsubstantiated after investigation.
Report Facts
Capacity: 150
Census: 122
Complaint Control Number: 24-AS-20240228154207
Employees Mentioned
| Name | Title | Context |
|---|---|---|
| David Ayers | Licensing Program Analyst | Conducted the complaint investigation |
| Amor Sorius | Senior Business Office Director | Met with Licensing Program Analyst during inspection |
| Tiffaney Santoro | Administrator | Facility administrator named in report header |
Inspection Report
Complaint Investigation
Census: 114
Capacity: 150
Deficiencies: 1
Jan 4, 2024
Visit Reason
The inspection was an unannounced complaint investigation triggered by a complaint received on 2023-11-15 regarding allegations that facility staff were not assisting residents with activities of daily living and not meeting the needs of residents in care.
Findings
The investigation substantiated that facility staff were not assisting residents with eating and other activities of daily living as required by California Code of Regulations Title 22. At least one resident out of 114 was not provided necessary assistance, presenting a risk to health and safety.
Complaint Details
The complaint was substantiated based on interviews, observations, and records review. The allegations that staff were not assisting residents with activities of daily living and not meeting residents' needs were confirmed.
Severity Breakdown
Type B: 1
Deficiencies (1)
| Description | Severity |
|---|---|
| Failure to provide personal assistance and care as needed by the resident, including assistance with activities of daily living such as dressing, eating, bathing, and medication administration. | Type B |
Report Facts
Census: 114
Total Capacity: 150
Deficiencies cited: 1
Plan of Correction Due Date: Jan 12, 2024
Employees Mentioned
| Name | Title | Context |
|---|---|---|
| David Ayers | Licensing Program Analyst | Conducted the complaint investigation and authored the report |
| Brenda Chan | Licensing Program Manager | Oversaw the complaint investigation |
| Tiffaney Santoro | Executive Director | Facility administrator met during inspection and agreed to provide staff training |
Inspection Report
Complaint Investigation
Census: 114
Capacity: 150
Deficiencies: 2
Jan 4, 2024
Visit Reason
The inspection was conducted to address deficiencies observed during the investigation of a complaint received on 2023-11-15 against the facility.
Findings
The inspection found that the facility failed to include the responsible party in a resident reappraisal conducted on 2023-11-19, and failed to provide timely written notice of a rate increase to the resident's representative within two business days after a change in level of care.
Complaint Details
The visit was complaint-related, investigating complaint control number 24-AS-20231115122107 received on 2023-11-15. The deficiencies were substantiated as described.
Severity Breakdown
Type B: 2
Deficiencies (2)
| Description | Severity |
|---|---|
| Failure to include the responsible party in a resident reappraisal after a significant change in condition. | Type B |
| Failure to provide written notice of a rate increase to the resident's representative within two business days after a change in level of care. | Type B |
Report Facts
Capacity: 150
Census: 114
Plan of Correction Due Date: Jan 12, 2024
Employees Mentioned
| Name | Title | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Tiffaney Santoro | Executive Director | Met with Licensing Program Analyst during inspection. |
| David Ayers | Licensing Program Analyst | Conducted the inspection and delivered complaint findings. |
| Brenda Chan | Licensing Program Manager | Supervisor overseeing the inspection. |
Inspection Report
Complaint Investigation
Census: 116
Capacity: 150
Deficiencies: 0
Aug 29, 2023
Visit Reason
The visit was an unannounced complaint investigation triggered by a complaint received on 2023-05-26 regarding allegations of staff sharing resident's personal information and failure to prevent resident intimidation.
Findings
The investigation found no preponderance of evidence to substantiate the allegations. Staff denied sharing personal information, and witnesses denied resident intimidation. The facility was toured to ensure no immediate health or safety risks were present.
Complaint Details
The complaint involved allegations that facility staff shared a resident's personal information with another resident and that staff did not prevent a resident from intimidating others. The allegations were unsubstantiated due to lack of corroborating evidence.
Report Facts
Capacity: 150
Census: 116
Employees Mentioned
| Name | Title | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Tiffaney Santoro | Executive Director | Met with Licensing Program Analyst during complaint investigation |
| David Ayers | Licensing Program Analyst | Conducted the complaint investigation |
| Brenda Chan | Licensing Program Manager | Named as Licensing Program Manager on report |
Inspection Report
Complaint Investigation
Census: 116
Capacity: 150
Deficiencies: 0
Aug 28, 2023
Visit Reason
Unannounced complaint investigation conducted due to a complaint received on 05/25/2023 regarding unlawful eviction.
Findings
The investigation found that the allegation of unlawful eviction was unsubstantiated. The facility was unable to accept a resident back due to the resident having an indwelling catheter, which is against regulatory requirements.
Complaint Details
The complaint was unsubstantiated based on interviews, documentation, and investigation findings. The resident was not accepted back due to medical requirements, not unlawful eviction.
Report Facts
Capacity: 150
Census: 116
Employees Mentioned
| Name | Title | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Tiffaney Santoro | Executive Director | Met with Licensing Program Analyst during complaint investigation |
| David Ayers | Licensing Program Analyst | Conducted the complaint investigation |
| Brenda Chan | Licensing Program Manager | Named in report as Licensing Program Manager |
Inspection Report
Annual Inspection
Census: 108
Capacity: 150
Deficiencies: 0
May 3, 2023
Visit Reason
The inspection was an unannounced required annual inspection conducted to evaluate compliance with licensing regulations.
Findings
The facility was found to be in compliance with no deficiencies cited. The inspection included a tour of the facility, review of emergency preparedness, medication storage, resident and staff files, and verification of safety features.
Report Facts
Capacity: 150
Census: 108
Employees Mentioned
| Name | Title | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Tiffaney Santoro | Administrator | Met with Licensing Program Analyst during inspection and named in report |
| David Ayers | Licensing Program Analyst | Conducted the inspection |
| Brenda Chan | Licensing Program Manager | Named in report |
Inspection Report
Complaint Investigation
Census: 108
Capacity: 150
Deficiencies: 0
Dec 9, 2022
Visit Reason
Unannounced complaint investigation visit conducted in response to allegations received on 05/08/2020 regarding inadequate fluid provision, falsification of medication administration records and medication label instructions, and failure to administer medications according to physician orders.
Findings
The investigation found the allegations of inadequate fluid provision, falsification of medication administration records, and falsification of medication label instructions to be unsubstantiated based on interviews with staff and residents. However, the allegation that staff did not administer medications according to physician orders was substantiated with documented medication errors for two residents in April and May 2020. No deficiencies were cited per Title 22 Regulations.
Complaint Details
Complaint received on 05/08/2020 with allegations including inadequate fluids to residents, falsification of medication administration records, falsification of medication label instructions, and failure to administer medications according to physician orders. The first three allegations were unsubstantiated; the last was substantiated with documented medication errors for Resident 1 and Resident 2.
Report Facts
Capacity: 150
Census: 108
Employees Mentioned
| Name | Title | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Sarah Hurt | Licensing Program Analyst | Conducted the complaint investigation and delivered findings |
| Tiffany Santoro | Administrator | Met with Licensing Program Analyst during the investigation and exit interview |
Inspection Report
Follow-Up
Census: 100
Capacity: 150
Deficiencies: 1
May 9, 2022
Visit Reason
The visit was a Case Management follow-up on an incident report regarding medication administration.
Findings
The Licensing Program Analyst found that a resident (R1) did not receive their prescribed medication due to the licensee receiving another resident's medication, posing an immediate health, safety, or personal rights risk.
Severity Breakdown
Type A: 1
Deficiencies (1)
| Description | Severity |
|---|---|
| Failure to assist residents with self-administered medications as needed, evidenced by Licensee not giving R1's prescribed medication due to receiving R2's medication, posing an immediate health, safety, or personal rights risk. | Type A |
Report Facts
Deficiency due date: Jun 10, 2022
Employees Mentioned
| Name | Title | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Tiffaney Santoro | Administrator | Met with Licensing Program Analyst during visit and involved in exit interview |
| Sergiy Pidgirny | Licensing Program Manager | Named as supervisor and licensing program manager |
| Shawna Doucette | Licensing Program Analyst | Conducted the case management visit and signed the report |
Inspection Report
Complaint Investigation
Census: 102
Capacity: 150
Deficiencies: 0
Mar 30, 2022
Visit Reason
The inspection visit was an unannounced complaint investigation triggered by a complaint received on 2021-07-08 regarding staff treatment of residents, garbage container covers, and insect presence.
Findings
The investigation found insufficient evidence to substantiate the allegations. Staff treatment of residents with dignity was unknown, garbage containers had tight fitting covers, and the facility was actively treating insect problems with pest control services.
Complaint Details
The complaint was unsubstantiated based on interviews, observations, and record reviews. Allegations included staff not treating residents with dignity, garbage containers lacking tight fitting covers, and presence of insects.
Report Facts
Complaint Control Number: 26
Capacity: 150
Census: 102
Employees Mentioned
| Name | Title | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Shawna Doucette | Licensing Program Analyst | Conducted the complaint investigation and delivered findings |
| Tiffaney Santoro | Administrator | Facility administrator met during the investigation |
| Sergiy Pidgirny | Licensing Program Manager | Named as Licensing Program Manager on the report |
Inspection Report
Complaint Investigation
Census: 102
Capacity: 150
Deficiencies: 0
Mar 30, 2022
Visit Reason
The inspection visit was an unannounced complaint investigation triggered by a complaint received on 2021-10-25 regarding the emergency backup power not operating during a power outage.
Findings
The investigation found that during the power outage lasting about 1.5 to 3 hours, the facility provided glow sticks, flashlights, flood lights, and checked on residents frequently. The facility has a contract for a backup generator for extended outages. The allegation was unsubstantiated due to lack of preponderance of evidence.
Complaint Details
The complaint alleged that emergency backup power did not operate during a power outage. The allegation was unsubstantiated after investigation.
Report Facts
Complaint Control Number: 26
Complaint Received Date: Oct 25, 2021
Employees Mentioned
| Name | Title | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Shawna Doucette | Licensing Program Analyst | Conducted the complaint investigation and delivered findings |
| Tiffaney Santoro | Administrator | Facility administrator met during the investigation |
| Sergiy Pidgirny | Licensing Program Manager | Named in report signature section |
Inspection Report
Annual Inspection
Census: 103
Capacity: 150
Deficiencies: 0
May 24, 2021
Visit Reason
The inspection was an unannounced required 1-year infection control visit to evaluate compliance with infection control policies and procedures.
Findings
The facility was found to be in compliance with infection control regulations, with no citations issued. The inspection included a tour of the facility, review of policies, and observation of staff and resident practices related to infection control.
Report Facts
Capacity: 150
Census: 103
Employees Mentioned
| Name | Title | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Marybeth Donovan | Licensing Program Analyst | Conducted the infection control visit |
| Tiffaney Santoro | General Manager | Met with Licensing Program Analyst during the visit |
Inspection Report
Census: 102
Capacity: 150
Deficiencies: 0
Dec 16, 2020
Visit Reason
The visit was a Technical Assist (TA) conducted via Zoom to provide technical assistance for Infection Prevention and Control guidelines for Adult and Senior Care facilities.
Findings
The Licensing Program Analyst reviewed the facility's policies and procedures related to infection control, including screening, disinfecting, staffing, training, emergency medical care, PPE usage, and resident activities. Recommendations were made to improve PPE donning and doffing signage, hand sanitizing, trash disposal, and mask changing protocols.
Employees Mentioned
| Name | Title | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Marybeth Donovan | Licensing Program Analyst | Conducted the Technical Assist visit and reviewed infection prevention and control guidelines. |
| Tiffaney Santoro | General Manager/Administrator | Met with Licensing Program Analyst during the visit and reviewed the report. |
| Ruby Perez | Director of Activities | Participated in the Technical Assist visit. |
| Barbara Elenteny | Program Clinical Consultant Nurse | Participated in the Technical Assist visit. |
| Lauren M. Powell | Administrator | Named as facility administrator. |
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