Misappropriation of Resident Property by Staff
Penalty
Summary
A certified nurse assistant (CNA) solicited and received a debit card and PIN from a resident who had diagnoses including polyneuropathy, intervertebral disc degeneration, arthritis, depressive disorder, chronic pain syndrome, and adult failure to thrive. The resident, who had no memory impairment, gave her card to the CNA after the CNA expressed financial hardship and requested a loan, with the understanding that the money would be repaid. After the transaction, the CNA did not return or communicate with the resident, prompting the resident to report the incident to facility staff. The resident expressed feeling taken advantage of and described emotional distress as a result of the incident. Facility policy, as outlined in the employee handbook and ethical house rules, strictly prohibits staff from accepting gifts, loans, or financial dealings of any kind with residents, including the removal of residents' personal belongings from the facility. Interviews with staff and the administrator confirmed that employees are not allowed to accept cash, bank cards, or any items of value from residents. The CNA involved admitted to taking the card and withdrawing money, which was in direct violation of facility policy and procedures.