Failure to Provide Annual Communication Training to Staff
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide annual communication training to two employees, specifically a CNA and a medication aide, as evidenced by a review of their personnel records. The records showed no documentation of communication training for the period reviewed, despite the facility's use of an online training platform (Relias) for annual mandatory trainings. Interviews with the HR Coordinator, Administrator, and DON confirmed that annual trainings were assigned and tracked through Relias, with department heads responsible for ensuring completion. However, there was no evidence that the required communication training was completed by the two staff members in question. Additionally, when requested, neither the HR Coordinator, Administrator, nor DON were able to provide a policy specifically addressing required annual training, including communication training, prior to the survey exit. The facility's employee handbook did state that all employees are required to complete mandatory training as defined by federal, state, and company policies, but did not provide specific details about communication training. This lack of documentation and policy contributed to the deficiency cited by surveyors.