Failure to Screen and Educate New Hires on COVID-19 Vaccination
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to comply with the CMS memo (QSO-21-19-NH) requirements regarding COVID-19 vaccination for newly hired staff. Specifically, the facility did not screen, educate, or offer the COVID-19 vaccine to four newly hired employees, including two nurse aide trainees, one licensed practical nurse, and one nurse aide. There was no documented evidence to show that these employees were medically screened for vaccine eligibility, educated on the risks and benefits of the vaccine, or offered the vaccine itself. An interview with the employee health staff confirmed the lack of documentation and actions regarding the COVID-19 vaccination process for these new hires. This deficiency was identified through a review of the facility's new hire list and was corroborated by the employee health staff, indicating a systemic failure to adhere to the required protocols for COVID-19 vaccination education and offering for new employees.
Plan Of Correction
The Facility submits this Plan of Correction under procedures established by the Department of Health in order to comply with the Department's directive to change conditions which the Department alleges is deficient under State and/or Federal Long Term Care Regulations. This Plan of Correction should not be construed as either a waiver of the facility's right to appeal or challenge the accuracy or severity of the alleged deficiencies or an admission of past or ongoing violation of State or Federal regulatory requirements. 1. Employees 1, 2, 3, and 4 were provided COVID-19 vaccination education and a list of nearby providers of the COVID-19 vaccination. 2. All new hires in the last two months were provided COVID-19 vaccination education and nearby providers of the vaccination. 3. Education provided to SDC of requirements to document COVID-19 screening, providing education on the COVID-19 vaccination and a list of nearby COVID-19 vaccination providers. 4. Audit of all new hire documentation will be conducted weekly x4 then monthly x2 for screening, education and providing a list of nearby providers for the COVID-19 vaccination with results reported to QAPI. 5. Compliance date: January 28, 2025