Failure to Investigate Alleged Violation of Resident Privacy and Property
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to conduct a thorough investigation following an allegation that a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) entered a resident's room without permission and searched through the resident's personal belongings while the resident was not present. The resident reported that the LPN attempted to take their coat and did not provide an explanation, resulting in the resident feeling that their privacy and property rights were violated. Another resident, who was the roommate, confirmed witnessing the LPN take the coat, and a second LPN also witnessed the event and reported it to the social worker. Despite being made aware of the incident, facility documentation did not include statements from the involved residents or staff, which resulted in a failure to determine potential misappropriation and ensure resident safety as required by regulation.