Failure to Remove CNA and Investigate Abuse Allegations
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to implement its abuse prevention policy by not removing a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) from resident care following multiple allegations of potential abuse. Despite reports from residents and their family members that the CNA was rough, mean, and had allegedly hit or intimidated a resident, the CNA continued to provide care to the same residents. Interviews revealed that both residents and their representatives reported these concerns to nursing staff, but the CNA was not removed from their assignments, and continued to enter the rooms of the affected residents. The investigation into the allegations was neither timely nor complete. Family members and residents reported that after making complaints to the nursing staff, there was no follow-up or communication from the facility regarding the status of the investigation or any actions taken. The LPN Charge Nurse acknowledged her responsibility to remove the CNA from resident care during an allegation of abuse, but confirmed that the CNA continued to have contact with the residents involved. The Director of Nursing (DON) also indicated that the situation should have been addressed more thoroughly, especially since multiple residents had raised concerns about the same CNA. The residents involved had significant medical conditions and cognitive impairments, as indicated by their diagnoses and Brief Interview Mental Scores (BIMS). One resident expressed fear and distress due to the CNA's continued presence, stating she could not sleep while the CNA was in the room. Documentation and interviews confirmed that the facility did not implement interventions to protect residents from further potential abuse, nor did it ensure proper reporting and investigation procedures were followed as outlined in its abuse prevention policy.