Failure to Identify PTSD Care Needs and Maintain Social Services Staffing
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to conduct and document a comprehensive facility-wide assessment (FA) that accurately identified the specific care and practices necessary to meet the needs of residents with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The assessment did not sufficiently address the requirements for managing PTSD, despite the presence of residents with this diagnosis or history. The FA was intended to use evidence-based, data-driven methods to evaluate the care needs of the resident population, including behavioral health and psychiatric conditions, but did not specify the interventions or resources required for PTSD care. Additionally, the facility did not maintain the identified number of staff required to provide social services, as the Social Services Designee (SSD) position was split between two facilities, resulting in only part-time coverage at each location. The administrator believed the SSD's time at the facility was sufficient, but the documented staffing plan called for one full-time SSD. This staffing shortfall had the potential to affect all residents with behavioral health needs, including those with PTSD, as the facility did not ensure adequate social services support as outlined in their own assessment and policy.