Failure to Report Allegations of Misappropriation and Abuse
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to report allegations of abuse and misappropriation of resident property within the required time frame, as outlined in its own Abuse and Neglect Reporting policy. One resident reported multiple concerns, including staff opening mail, missing clothing, personal items being taken without consent, and feeling targeted by facility administration. The resident specifically noted that a candle warmer was taken from the room on two separate occasions without notification, and a welcome sign was also removed and later returned. The resident expressed feeling picked on and unable to communicate honestly with the Administrator. Interviews with facility staff confirmed that the candle warmer was removed from the resident's room by Environmental Services staff due to it being considered a fire hazard, but the resident was not informed at the time of removal. Staff also acknowledged that the resident's side of the room had not been cleaned for several days due to fear of being accused of theft. The Business Office Manager admitted to accidentally opening the resident's mail. Despite these incidents and the resident's grievances, the Director of Nursing and Administrator did not report the allegations to the state as required by policy. The facility's policy mandates immediate reporting of suspected abuse, neglect, exploitation, or misappropriation of property, including notification to appropriate authorities within specified time frames. However, the Administrator and Director of Nursing chose not to report the incidents, even after internal discussions and confirmation that items were taken from the resident's room without consent or notification. The lack of timely reporting and communication with the resident regarding the removal of personal property constituted a failure to protect the resident from the wrongful use of belongings and money.