Failure to Timely Report Allegations of Abuse to Required Authorities
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to timely report allegations of abuse to the required agencies and physician within the state-mandated reporting time frame for two residents. For one resident with metabolic encephalopathy, end stage renal disease, major depressive disorder, and anxiety disorder, a concern of abuse by a CNA was reported by a dialysis center director to the facility. The grievance was forwarded to the Interim DON for investigation, but the local law enforcement and the facility’s physician were not notified, and the Day One report to the State Agency was submitted 24 hours after the incident was reported to the facility, exceeding the required two-hour window for abuse allegations. The Interim DON confirmed that the incident was not reported within the required time frame and that not all required parties were notified. For another resident with vascular dementia, a stroke, and seizures, the resident reported to surveyors that he had been physically abused about six months prior and had informed a nurse at the time. However, a review of nursing progress notes showed no documentation of this allegation, and the current Administrator could not find any investigation or evidence that the allegation was reported to the State. The incident was listed on the reportable list, but there was no documentation of follow-up or reporting as required by policy.