Failure to Investigate Alleged Abuse
Penalty
Summary
Linwood Nursing and Rehabilitation Center was found to be non-compliant with federal and state regulations regarding the investigation of alleged abuse. The facility failed to conduct a thorough investigation into an allegation of physical abuse reported by a resident. The resident, who was cognitively intact, reported to a social worker that a nurse aide had been rough with her during the night shift, causing discomfort. Despite the resident's disclosure, the facility did not collect written statements from staff on duty, nor did they conduct interviews with other alert and oriented residents. Additionally, there was no documentation in the resident's clinical record regarding the incident. The Director of Nursing confirmed that no thorough investigation was completed or documented, which is a violation of the facility's abuse prohibition policy. The policy requires immediate reporting and investigation of any allegations of abuse, including notifying appropriate personnel and documenting the incident. The failure to adhere to these procedures resulted in a deficiency citation for not promptly and thoroughly investigating the allegation of abuse as required by both federal and state regulations.
Plan Of Correction
Preparation and/or execution of this plan of correction does not constitute admission or agreement by the provider. The plan of correction is prepared and/or executed solely because it is required by the provisions of federal and state law. Resident 4 was reassessed and re-interviewed by the Director of Nursing for signs and symptoms of physical or mental abuse. The allegations were unsubstantiated. The NHA/designee will audit current residents to ensure there are no other allegations. The Director of Nursing/designee conducted interviews of staff and residents. The resident's clinical record was updated. The Director of Nursing/designee in-serviced the nursing staff and the social services department regarding the facility's abuse policy/procedures. The NHA/designee will perform an audit 1x/day for 30 days to ensure allegations of abuse are investigated and reported per the facility policy and procedures. The results of the audit will be presented to the QA committee for review and recommendation.