Unqualified Social Services Director and Failure to Provide Required Social Services
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that the Social Services Director (SSD) met the required qualifications to manage and coordinate social services for its 126 residents. The SSD held a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and was working toward a master's in social work, but this was her first experience in a skilled nursing facility. During interviews and record reviews, it was found that the SSD had not facilitated several required social services, including providing Advance Directive information to six sampled residents or their representatives, making dental and podiatry referrals as ordered, and completing initial social history assessments. The SSD also reported not conducting resident visits in their rooms, instead waiting for care conferences, and delayed documentation for up to two days. Further review revealed that the SSD did not notify the Ombudsman regarding a resident's transfer and discharge, believing it was not her responsibility, and failed to appropriately assess and refer three residents for Pre-admission Screening and Resident Review (PASRR). The facility's policies and job descriptions outlined responsibilities for the SSD that were not being met, such as maintaining adequate records, making necessary referrals, and providing supportive visits. The Director of Nursing confirmed awareness of these occurrences during the survey.