Failure to Conduct Thorough Investigation of Alleged Misappropriation of Resident Funds
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to conduct a thorough investigation into an allegation of misappropriation of funds for one resident who was alert and oriented. The resident reported that $80 was missing from her purse, which she kept in her room and did not leave unattended except while sleeping. The resident stated she had received cash withdrawals from the business office and kept the money in her purse for personal use, such as hair appointments. The facility's investigative file documented that interviews were conducted with the resident, her family, and staff, and that searches of the resident's room, laundry, and common areas were performed, but the missing funds were not located. The facility replaced the missing money for the resident. However, the investigation lacked key elements. There was no documentation that video surveillance footage, which was available in the hallway near the resident's room, was reviewed as part of the investigation. The investigative file also did not specify which staff members were interviewed or provide details of those interviews. The administrator acknowledged that, due to uncertainty about the exact date the money went missing, video footage was not reviewed and that surveillance is only retained for 30 days. The facility's policy required a more comprehensive investigation, including attempts to interview all relevant individuals and review available evidence, which was not fully documented or completed in this case.