Failure to Timely Report Alleged Abuse Incident
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to report an allegation of abuse in a timely manner for one resident. The incident involved a cognitively intact resident with multiple diagnoses, including anemia, heart failure, hypertension, diabetes, malnutrition, depression, and bipolar disorder. The resident reported that a CNA tossed a package of wet wipes at her in the bathroom, which she perceived as an act of anger. The resident communicated her dissatisfaction to other staff members, but did not believe the issue was addressed. The CNA involved stated that she did not throw the wipes, but acknowledged the wipes hit the resident's wheelchair. The incident was discussed among staff, including a nurse and a Qualified Medication Aide, but the resident was unwilling to discuss the matter further in the presence of the CNA. The Director of Nursing (DON) became aware of the accusation several days after the incident and initiated an investigation. Statements were collected from the resident, CNA, LPN, and QMA, all confirming that the resident had reported the incident. However, the DON acknowledged that the staff should have reported the allegation of abuse immediately to her or the Administrator, as per facility expectations. The Administrator also indicated there was no specific policy for reporting, and that state guidelines would be followed. The delay in reporting the allegation constituted a failure to meet timely reporting requirements for suspected abuse.