Failure to Investigate Allegations of Misappropriation
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that allegations of misappropriation involving three residents were thoroughly investigated, as required by policy. One resident reported losing a wallet, which was later found in the laundry but missing a $100 bill; although staff were notified, the resident was not reimbursed, and there was no documentation of a thorough investigation. Resident council minutes also indicated that missing money was discussed in a meeting attended by the affected resident. Another resident reported that after returning from a day out, money was missing from a bag in a locked drawer, and the incident was reported to the Social Services Director, Business Office Manager, and Administrator. Preliminary steps were taken, such as speaking with the ombudsman and reviewing some camera footage, but only a progress note was documented, and interviews with staff were not retained or fully documented. A third resident reported a missing wallet containing approximately $45 from an unlocked drawer, and while a room search was conducted, there was no evidence of a comprehensive investigation or police contact. Facility leadership confirmed that the only documentation for these incidents was a progress note in the electronic medical records, and no further evidence of completed investigations was provided. The facility's policy requires immediate and thorough investigation of abuse, neglect, or exploitation allegations, including identifying responsible staff, interviewing all involved parties, and maintaining complete documentation, none of which were fully met in these cases.