Failure to Timely Report Abuse Allegation to State Agency
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to notify the California Department of Health (CDPH) within the required two-hour timeframe after an allegation of abuse was reported against a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) by a resident. The incident involved a resident with end stage renal disease and diabetes mellitus, who was cognitively intact as indicated by a BIMS score of 15. The resident reported that a male CNA repeatedly placed her cell phone in his pocket without permission, and she informed her family about the incident during their visit. The family then reported the allegation to facility staff. Despite the facility's policy requiring immediate or within two-hour reporting of abuse allegations to CDPH, the report was not made in a timely manner. Interviews with facility staff, including the Social Service Director (SSD) and the Administrator, confirmed that the Registered Nurse Supervisor (RNS) did not report the abuse allegation to CDPH immediately or within the required timeframe after being informed. Review of the resident's records and care conference notes further indicated delays in communication and documentation of the incident.