Failure to Timely Report Alleged Verbal Abuse
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to report allegations of verbal abuse in a timely manner for one resident with severe cognitive deficits and total dependence on staff for activities of daily living. Multiple staff members reported that a CNA was verbally abusive and disrespectful to the resident, including making inappropriate comments during care and being rough. However, staff were unable to provide specific dates or times for when the incidents occurred, and some delayed reporting due to fear of retaliation. Written statements and interviews confirmed that staff had observed or were aware of the alleged abuse but did not immediately report their concerns. The facility's self-report to the Department of Inspections and Appeals and Licensing lacked details regarding the dates of the alleged incidents. The facility's policy required immediate reporting of all allegations of abuse to the charge nurse and subsequent notification to the administrator and state authorities within two hours. Despite this policy, the allegations were not reported promptly, and staff involved were later educated on the importance of immediate reporting. The resident involved had significant medical conditions, including heart failure, renal insufficiency, and quadriplegia, and was unable to care for herself or communicate effectively due to cognitive impairment.