Failure to Notify Law Enforcement After Abuse Allegation
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to notify local law enforcement following an allegation of abuse involving a resident with dementia, paranoid personality disorder, anxiety, and depression. The resident, who had moderately impaired cognition and required significant assistance with daily activities, alleged that a certified nurse aide provided rough care during an evening shift. The incident was documented on a State of Connecticut Reportable Event form, and the physician and the resident's family were notified. The facility administrator initiated an internal investigation by interviewing staff the following day. Despite the facility's abuse policy directing that allegations be reported to local law enforcement when appropriate, the police were not notified. The administrator stated that the decision not to contact law enforcement was based on the resident's history of accusatory behaviors and frequent calls to the police department. The internal investigation concluded that the allegation was unsubstantiated, but the required notification to law enforcement was not made as outlined in facility policy.