Failure to Investigate and Report Alleged Misappropriation of Resident Property
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to initiate a thorough investigation into an allegation of stolen money from a resident's lock box, despite being informed by staff. The resident, who had multiple diagnoses including congestive heart failure, atherosclerotic heart disease, type 2 diabetes, bipolar disorder, and anxiety disorder, reported missing $350.37 from his lock box after returning from a leave of absence. The resident stated the box was locked in his room and the key was with him, but also mentioned occasions when the key was left in his bag or in the lock. The police were notified and took a report, and the resident's concerns were documented by social services. Despite facility policy requiring timely investigation and reporting of misappropriation allegations, there was no evidence that the incident was reported to the State Survey Agency or that a formal investigation was initiated promptly. Interviews revealed that the LPN informed the DON and RN Unit Manager shortly after the allegation, and the RN Unit Manager communicated with the Administrator. However, the Administrator stated he was not aware of the allegation until several days later, at which point he submitted a Facility Reported Incident and began an investigation. Documentation and communication gaps led to a delay in the required investigative and reporting actions.