Failure to Timely Report Alleged Resident Abuse
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to follow its policy and procedure regarding the timely reporting of suspected abuse. Specifically, after a family member alleged that a resident had been assaulted, the facility did not report this allegation to the State Survey Agency (SSA) within the required two-hour timeframe. The incident was reported to the SSA approximately 72 hours after the allegation was made, rather than immediately as required by facility policy and regulatory guidelines. Interviews with the administrator confirmed the delay and acknowledged that the report was not made until several days after the initial allegation. The resident involved had a history of dementia, muscle weakness, and major depressive disorder, and required varying levels of assistance with daily activities. The resident was found with a scratch and mild bleeding under the left eye after being observed leaving another room. The family member raised concerns about possible abuse, prompting the requirement for immediate reporting. Despite this, the facility did not notify the appropriate authorities, including the SSA, within the mandated timeframe, resulting in a deficiency related to the timely reporting of suspected abuse.