Misappropriation of Resident Property by Staff
Penalty
Summary
A facility failed to protect a resident from misappropriation of property when a front desk staff member used the resident's credit card for personal purchases. The resident, who had diagnoses including bipolar disorder, depressive disorder with psychotic symptoms, and anxiety disorder, but no memory impairment, had given her credit card to the staff member to buy personal items for herself and for the staff member. However, upon reviewing her bank statements, the resident discovered multiple unapproved transactions. The staff member admitted to using the resident's card several times for fuel and also receiving cash from the resident. Documentation and interviews confirmed that the staff member had used the card for personal benefit and had an agreement with the resident not to inform management. The staff member later apologized in writing for the situation and acknowledged the misuse of the resident's funds. Interviews with facility staff, including the DON, DSD, DSS, and licensed nurses, revealed that staff were trained and expected not to accept credit cards or cash from residents, nor to make purchases for them. The facility's employee handbook and abuse policy also prohibited staff from accepting gifts, tips, or resident property, and emphasized the resident's right to be free from misappropriation and exploitation. Despite these policies and training, the staff member's actions resulted in the resident feeling taken advantage of, distrustful, and embarrassed.