Failure to Timely Report Alleged Sexual Abuse to State Survey Agency
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to report an allegation of sexual abuse involving a resident with severe vascular dementia and significant cognitive impairment within the required two-hour timeframe to the State Survey Agency (SSA). The resident, who had a BIMS score of three out of 15, disclosed to a family member that two males entered the room during the night and touched her breast. The family member reported this allegation to a Certified Nursing Assistant, who then informed a Kentucky Medication Aide, and subsequently a Licensed Practical Nurse. The LPN immediately notified the Administrator and Director of Nursing (DON) of the allegation. Despite being notified of the incident at 9:00 AM, the facility did not send the initial report to the SSA until approximately four hours later, at 1:01 PM. Interviews revealed confusion among staff regarding the required reporting timeframe, with the DON believing there was a 24-hour window if no injury was involved, while the Administrator understood the requirement to be two hours. The delay was further attributed to the need for corporate office review before submission. The facility's policy required timely reporting of alleged violations, but this was not followed in this instance.