Failure to Timely Report Alleged Abuse Incidents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to report allegations of abuse involving two residents within the required two-hour timeframe. For one resident, clinical records documented the presence of two significant bruises on the inner side of the left arm, with no clear explanation for their origin. The facility's incident report suggested the bruises may have resulted from a transfer, and it was noted that family members had difficulty moving the resident during transportation. Despite this, there was no evidence that the incident was reported to the state incident reporting center as required. In another case, a resident with a history of bipolar disorder and recent hospitalization for a urinary tract infection made an allegation of abuse to hospital staff, which was subsequently reported by the hospital to the state agency. Facility staff were aware of the allegation, and an internal investigation was conducted. However, the Director of Nursing stated that the facility did not report the incident to the state agency, believing it was unnecessary since the hospital had already done so. Interviews confirmed that the allegation was reported internally within two hours, but not to the appropriate authorities.