Failure to File and Investigate Grievance for Missing Resident Belongings
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a family member's concern regarding missing clothing and personal items for a resident diagnosed with dementia was filed as a grievance and properly investigated. The facility's policy requires that grievances, including those about lost clothing or personal items, be documented and responded to within five days. Documentation review showed that the family expressed concern about the resident's closet lock being removed and missing items, but there was no evidence that a grievance was filed or investigated for this incident. The resident's progress notes indicated the family raised the issue during a visit, and the nurse acknowledged the concern but did not initiate the grievance process. Interviews with facility staff confirmed that the concern was not formally documented or investigated as a grievance. The Administrator acknowledged awareness of the family's concern and stated that an email was sent to the family indicating a request for reimbursement would be submitted. However, no reimbursement was provided, and no formal grievance or investigation was completed. The Administrator confirmed that a grievance should have been filed to ensure a thorough investigation and resolution for the family.