Image of nurses' hands at computer keyboard

A California nursing home operator must increase staffing levels, improve quality of care and pay for an independent monitor, according to a recent settlement with the state’s Office of the Attorney General.

The California Department of Public Health issued 76 citations and 209 deficiencies to facilities operated by Skilled Healthcare Group Inc. between 2008-2012. This led Attorney General Kamala Harris to undertake an enforcement action that resulted in the settlement announced last Friday.

The citations and deficiencies were related to issues such as failing to prevent pressure ulcers, providing deficient catheter care and overmedicating residents.

An independent monitor will oversee the mandated changes and make regular reports to the OAG for two years. Skilled Healthcare will pay the estimated $350,000 annual cost of the monitor.