The Minnesota Department of Health has substantiated a report of neglect at Covered Bridge, an assisted living facility in Holdingford. State investigators found that facility staff were purchasing and administering alcohol to residents without physician orders or proper supervision. The investigation centered on a resident who required emergency medical attention after consuming significant amounts of alcohol provided by the staff.
According to the report, the resident was described as unresponsive during a scheduled telehealth appointment. Medical records confirmed the resident had a blood alcohol concentration of 0.23, which is nearly three times the legal driving limit. Investigators found that staff maintained an unofficial log to track alcohol intake for multiple residents, yet these plans lacked professional oversight and formal medical authorization.
Staff members admitted to purchasing alcohol for residents on a weekly basis, claiming they sought to provide a cost-effective service. However, the facility was not licensed for harm reduction services. The investigation also noted that the resident in question had documented conditions including anxiety and psychoactive substance abuse, further complicating the decision to provide access to alcohol.
Beyond the neglect finding, the state investigation identified additional compliance failures. The facility was licensed for 15 residents but was operating with 18. Investigators issued correction orders regarding the unauthorized delegation of nursing tasks to unlicensed personnel. The facility faces ongoing regulatory scrutiny as the state moves through the appeals process for the maltreatment finding.