Delayed Notification of Physician and Representative After Resident Allegation
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to immediately notify the physician and the resident's representative after a resident reported an allegation of rough treatment by a CNA during a shower. The resident, who had no cognitive impairment and required substantial to maximal assistance with bathing, reported that her breast was pinched with a gait belt and a toothbrush was jammed into her mouth. She also complained of pain in her breast radiating to her back, weakness, and inability to walk. The incident was documented in the progress notes, and the DON was notified on the same day. Despite the immediate internal notification, the physician and the resident's representative were not informed of the allegation until two days later. Documentation shows that the physician was notified via fax and the family was contacted on the same day, both occurring after the initial report by the resident. The delay in external notification constitutes the deficiency, as the required parties were not informed immediately as per regulatory requirements.