Failure to Complete Abuse Investigation Before Allowing Staff to Return to Work
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to conduct a thorough investigation into an allegation of abuse made by a resident against a CNA before allowing the alleged perpetrator to return to work. The resident, who was cognitively intact and had a history of left-sided paralysis following a stroke, reported that the CNA was rough while changing her brief, causing pain and a bump on her left wrist. The incident was reported to the LVN, who assessed the resident and notified the DON and Administrator. The police were also involved and interviewed the resident. The CNA was sent home the evening of the allegation but was allowed to return to work the following morning, before the investigation was completed. The Administrator, who was responsible for the abuse investigation, did not interview the resident or other residents assigned to the CNA prior to allowing the CNA to return to work. The Administrator relied on interviews with staff and the police report, believing there was enough information to permit the CNA's return. The facility's policy required immediate suspension of any employee accused of abuse pending the outcome of a thorough investigation, including interviews with the resident, staff, and other residents cared for by the accused employee. These steps were not completed before the CNA resumed work, resulting in a failure to follow the facility's abuse investigation and reporting procedures.