Staff Misappropriation of Resident's Debit Card
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a staff member, identified as a housekeeper, used a resident's debit card for personal use without authorization. The resident, a male with moderately impaired cognition and a history of sepsis, had recently received a new debit card and was assisted by staff in activating it. Surveillance footage showed the resident placing the card on his leg as he returned to his room, and it is believed the card may have fallen off during this time. The resident later reported being unable to find the card, prompting notification of his family and subsequent discovery of unauthorized transactions. A review of bank statements and a police report confirmed multiple unauthorized transactions totaling $501.43, including cash app transfers and purchases at a local store. The staff member in question was identified through the bank statement and was found to have a personal relationship with another individual involved in the transactions. The staff member had passed background checks and abuse training at hire, but nonetheless accessed and used the resident's card after it was misplaced. Interviews with facility leadership, including the Administrator and DON, revealed that staff are routinely trained not to handle or use residents' personal property and are expected to report any found items. The resident had access to a lockbox and a locking drawer, but had used the card earlier in the day and dropped it. The incident was reported to the police, and the resident's family was involved in addressing the financial loss. The resident was reportedly upset by the incident, especially given his health status at the time.