Failure to Timely Report Alleged Abuse
Penalty
Summary
Facility staff failed to report an allegation of abuse involving a resident within the required timeframe. The resident, who had multiple medical conditions including a right femur fracture, joint replacement aftercare, diabetes, and no cognitive impairment, reported to a mental health provider that a CNA expressed frustration about having to change him frequently due to loose stools. The resident stated that the CNA told him she could not keep coming in to change him, but denied any physical abuse or injuries. The allegation was communicated to the unit manager, but there was no documentation that it was reported to the appropriate authorities within two hours as required by facility policy and federal regulations. Further review revealed that a family member had emailed the social worker about the resident being upset and described a staff member being rough and slamming items while providing care. The social worker and unit manager interviewed the resident, who did not claim to be abused, and no other residents cared for by the CNA were interviewed. The administrator confirmed that the allegation was not reported to authorities because staff did not believe abuse had occurred, despite facility policy requiring immediate reporting of all allegations. The facility's policy clearly outlines the need to report all alleged violations to the administrator and state agencies within two hours if abuse is involved.