Failure to Timely Report Alleged Abuse/Neglect Incident
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that all allegations of abuse and neglect were reported immediately to the Pennsylvania Department of Health as required. A resident with hemiplegia, morbid obesity, and atherosclerosis reported falling to the ground while being transferred with a Hoyer lift by a nurse aide. The resident stated that after the fall, the aide asked her not to report the incident, expressing concern about losing her job. The resident eventually reported the incident due to ongoing pain and learning that the aide had resigned. Facility records showed that the incident was documented in a grievance form, but the date of completion was left blank, and the report was not entered into the Pennsylvania Electronic Event Reporting System immediately upon receiving the allegation. Staff interviews confirmed that the administrator was aware of the requirement to report but did not follow up to ensure the report was submitted. This resulted in a failure to comply with state regulations regarding timely reporting of suspected abuse or neglect.