Failure to Safeguard Resident's Personal Property
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a resident with a history of cerebral infarction and schizoaffective disorder, who was moderately cognitively impaired, reported that their personal cell phone went missing while being charged during their stay. The facility's policy required that each resident be offered a locked drawer or equivalent with a key for small valuables, and that an inventory of personal belongings be maintained. However, there was no documented evidence that the resident's cell phone was protected from loss or theft at the time of the incident. The Social Work note confirmed the missing phone and communication with the resident's family, but did not indicate that appropriate safeguards were in place. Interviews with facility staff revealed inconsistent practices regarding the safeguarding of residents' valuables. The Director of Social Work stated that valuables could be kept in the Social Work Office or in a lockable dresser drawer, but was unaware if the resident had been offered such options. Nursing staff indicated that lockable drawers were available and could be provided by the Maintenance Department if needed, with keys held by either the resident or licensed nurses. The Administrator confirmed that residents' possessions were documented on an inventory checklist and that lockable drawers were available, but could not recall details about the missing cell phone. There was no evidence that the required protections for the resident's property were implemented in this case.