Failure to Investigate and Report Resident Property Misappropriation
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to investigate an allegation of potential misappropriation of a resident's personal property and did not ensure that the results of the investigation were reported to the State Agency within 5 business days, as required by facility policy. Specifically, a resident was reported missing two cell phones, a case containing identification, a Medicare card, and a small amount of cash. The resident's son communicated the loss to the facility, expressing doubt that the items could have been accidentally discarded. The social worker responded by searching the resident's room, trash, and notifying the kitchen and laundry departments. An online crime report was filed with the local police, but the report was rejected as the police do not handle missing or lost property cases of this nature. A review of the resident's medical record confirmed the missing items were previously documented in the personal effects inventory. During interviews, the Social Services Director stated there was no evidence that an internal investigation had been completed or that a 5-day report was sent to the State Agency. Both the Administrator and the Director of Nursing confirmed they had no knowledge of the incident, and it had not been discussed in staff meetings. This demonstrates a failure to follow internal and external reporting procedures for suspected misappropriation of resident property.