Failure to Remove Employee After Unsatisfactory Background Checks
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that staff hiring was preceded by a completed and satisfactory background check, as required by its Abuse Prevention policy. Specifically, the Dietary Manager (DM) was allowed to continue working after two unsatisfactory criminal background checks were received. The policy mandates pre-screening all potential new employees for a history of abusive behavior, but records show that the DM's background checks, dated 11/21/2022 and 2/11/2025, both returned unsatisfactory results. Interviews with the Human Resource Director (HRD) and Administrator revealed that the first unsatisfactory background check was brought to the attention of the previous Administrator, who approved the DM to continue working. The HRD was aware of the unsatisfactory status and, after the DM was promoted, requested an appeal, which also resulted in an unsatisfactory finding. Despite this, the DM was allowed to remain employed after the HRD informed the current Administrator and consulted with Regional Human Resources, who again approved continued employment.