Failure to Investigate Alleged Abuse
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure an investigation was completed following an allegation of abuse involving a resident with multiple medical conditions, including COPD, diabetes, CVA, seizure disorder, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and asthma. The resident, who was cognitively intact and required varying levels of assistance for daily activities, reported that after winning a meal through a facility lottery, an LPN took her meal away in the dining room and directed her to eat in her room. The resident described the LPN's actions as upsetting and abusive, particularly the manner in which the meal was taken from her. A CNA who overheard the interaction described the LPN's tone as rude and disrespectful, and later reported the incident to the DON, who stated she would look into it. Despite the report made to the DON, the Administrator confirmed that she was unaware of the allegation and that no investigation had been conducted. Review of the facility's abuse prevention policy indicated that all allegations of abuse should be immediately reported to the Administrator and the state, and that an investigation should be completed within five working days. The lack of investigation and failure to follow reporting protocols constituted a deficiency in responding appropriately to alleged violations.