Failure to Prevent Misappropriation of Resident Property
Penalty
Summary
A resident with hemiplegia, COPD, major depressive disorder, and anxiety disorder was admitted to the facility and was functioning independently in leisure activities, alert, oriented, and able to express needs. Another resident with diabetes, syphilis, adjustment disorder, schizophrenia, ataxia, and depression, who displayed behavioral symptoms including frequently asking others for money and snacks, was observed in possession of the first resident's wallet and debit card. Staff interviews revealed that the second resident used the debit card at a vending machine without permission and was later found to have $100 cash, which the first resident reported missing from his wallet. The second resident claimed to have found the wallet on the floor in the first resident's room and denied taking any cash, but admitted to using the debit card to purchase a drink. Staff confirmed that the first resident did not give permission for the wallet or debit card to be used, and that the second resident had a history of taking items that did not belong to her when they were not in their proper place. The facility's policy prohibits misappropriation of resident property, defined as the wrongful use of a resident's belongings or money without consent. The incident was substantiated through staff and resident interviews, as well as review of records, confirming that the facility failed to ensure the resident was free from misappropriation of property.