Failure to Address Psychosocial Needs After Abuse Allegation
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to address the psychosocial needs of two residents following an allegation of abuse. After an incident in which one resident reported being touched inappropriately by another during lunch, there was no evidence that the Social Services Designee (SSD) assessed the affected residents or documented any follow-up. Record reviews showed that neither resident had a social services note or care plan addressing their psychosocial needs after the alleged abuse incident. One resident involved had diagnoses including Tourette's syndrome and psychosis, with moderate cognitive impairment and significant dependence on staff for daily activities. The other resident had a history of cerebral infarction and diabetes, with intact cognitive skills and some independence in daily activities. Despite these vulnerabilities, there was no documentation of psychosocial assessment or intervention by the SSD after the incident. Interviews with facility staff confirmed that the SSD did not promptly visit or assess the residents following the alleged abuse. The SSD acknowledged that it was his responsibility to develop care plans and provide psychosocial support, especially after such incidents, but admitted he did not remember seeing the residents immediately and did not develop care plans for them. The facility's policies and job descriptions require the SSD to monitor and address residents' psychosocial needs, particularly after abuse allegations, but these actions were not taken.