Failure to Conduct Employee Screening and Training
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to adhere to its own policies and procedures regarding the screening and training of newly hired employees, which led to deficiencies in preventing abuse, neglect, and theft. Specifically, the facility did not conduct criminal background checks, verify professional licenses or registrations, or ensure that required abuse prevention training was completed in a timely manner for six newly hired employees, including registered nurses, nurse aides, and a dietary aide. These lapses were identified through a review of employee files and confirmed by the facility's administrator. The facility's policy, last reviewed in October 2024, mandates screening potential employees for a history of abuse, neglect, or mistreatment before employment, including obtaining information from previous employers and checking with licensing boards and registries. Additionally, the policy requires educating staff upon hire and annually on preventing abuse, neglect, and exploitation of residents, as well as the misappropriation of resident property. However, the facility failed to comply with these requirements for the six employees, as evidenced by missing background checks, unverified licenses, and incomplete training records.
Plan Of Correction
Employees RN1, RN2, RN3, NA1, NA2, and DA1 files were immediately reviewed and missing documents were obtained. These employees also received abuse training per policy. Current employee files were audited. Any missing documentation or education will be completed. NHA/designee will educate HR on the components of this regulation with emphasis to obtain required documents & employees receiving required education upon hire. NHA or designee will audit new hire files to ensure appropriate documentation & abuse training is present. Audit will be conducted 2x a week x 4 weeks, then 1x a week x 4 weeks, then 2x a month x 2 months, then 1x a month x 2 months. The findings of these quality monitoring's will be reported to the Quality Assurance/Performance Improvement Committee until monthly and/or until substantial compliance is met. Quality Monitoring schedule modified based on findings during QAPI.