Failure to Timely Report Alleged Misappropriation of Resident Property
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to follow its policy and procedure regarding the timely reporting of an alleged misappropriation of resident property for one resident. On 8/10/25, a resident reported $600 missing, and this was documented in the Theft & Loss Form and in the resident's progress notes. The CNA notified the RN supervisor, who assisted in searching for the missing items, and the resident's daughter was informed. The resident, who was cognitively intact as indicated by a BIMS score of 15/15, completed a theft and loss form, which was submitted to Social Services. However, the incident was not reported to the Department of Public Health, Ombudsman, Adult Protective Services, or Law Enforcement within 24 hours as required by facility policy. Interviews with facility staff confirmed that the required notifications were not made within the specified timeframe. The Social Service Director acknowledged that the incident should have been reported to the appropriate authorities, regardless of the family's wishes. The Ombudsman confirmed that their office was not notified, and the Administrator admitted that the delay occurred because the amount of missing money was unclear during the investigation. Review of the facility's policy confirmed the requirement to notify authorities within 24 hours of any suspected misappropriation of resident property.