Failure to Report Alleged Misappropriation of Resident Property
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that allegations of misappropriation of resident property were reported in accordance with its own policy and regulatory requirements. Specifically, a resident with moderate cognitive impairment reported missing money from the top drawer of her nightstand, both in her current and previous rooms. The resident was unable to specify the exact amount or date the money went missing, but stated it was mostly loose one-dollar bills. The allegation was brought to the attention of the Administrator, who was also the Abuse Coordinator, but there was confusion among staff regarding who was handling the report, and the Social Services Director was not aware of the specific allegation. Despite the facility's policy requiring immediate reporting of any misappropriation of resident property to the State Regulatory Agency within 24 hours, the allegation was not reported to State and local agencies. Interviews with the resident's nephew confirmed that the resident had reported missing money on multiple occasions, but he had not informed staff. The Administrator and Social Services Director demonstrated a lack of communication and follow-through, resulting in the failure to report the incident as required.