Failure to Follow Abuse Investigation and Suspension Policy
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to follow its policy regarding the investigation and prevention of further abuse following allegations made by a resident. Specifically, a resident reported that a CNA was verbally abusive and that a Restorative Aide engaged in mental abuse. The resident could not recall the exact date or time of the incidents, and there were no witnesses. Upon being informed of the allegations, the Administrator acknowledged that there were no prior reports against the staff members in question but stated she would follow up. The facility's policy requires immediate suspension of any staff accused of abuse pending investigation to protect residents from potential harm. However, the Administrator did not suspend the accused staff, citing the need to maintain staffing levels during the holidays and the resident's absence from the facility. The Administrator conducted interviews with the accused staff and completed the investigation quickly, allowing the staff to continue working without suspension. The Director of Nursing confirmed that the facility's policy is to immediately suspend any staff accused of abuse, whether they are on duty or scheduled to work, until the investigation is complete. Documentation reviewed included the facility's abuse policy, investigation and reporting documents, and in-service attendance records. The failure to suspend the accused staff during the investigation was not in accordance with the facility's established policy and procedures.