HospitalInspections.org

Based on record review and interview, the hospital failed to ensure their policy and procedure reflected correct reporting requirements according to L.A. R.S. 40:2009.20 by failing to ensure all allegations of Abuse and Neglect were reported to the appropriate agencies. Findings:

Review of the hospital's current Administrative Policy No. 44 for Client Abuse and Neglect reflected the Statutory Definitions of Abuse included Louisiana Revised Statute 40:2009.20 . Review of the policy revealed documentation to reflect that the hospital would contact the local law enforcement office if the allegation was applicable to a criminal act.

Further review of the policy reflected the Client Rights Officer would notify the Bureau of Protective Services, Investigative Review Committee Chairperson, the Human Rights Committee Chairperson and Child Protection Office of all incidents/allegations. There was no documentation to reflect the hospital would contact/inform the Department of Health and Hospitals (DHH)- Health Standards Section (HSS) or local law enforcement agency of allegations of abuse and neglect for all patients of all age groups per L.A. R. S. 40::2009.20.

Interview with #S1, Human Resource Specialist/Clients Right Officer on 10/6/10 at 11:07 a.m. revealed she was responsible for reporting allegations of abuse and neglect to all appropriate agencies. #S1 stated she notify the Office of Children Services (OCS) and Adult Protective Services (APS) for any Abuse/Neglect allegations. #S1, Client Rights Officer confirmed the hospital does not report allegations of abuse/neglect to DHH/HSS and does not call local law enforcement for allegations of abuse and neglect.