Question

which of the following statements are true? (click on all that apply).

a long-term care facility must investigate any suspicion of abuse within 5 working days of the incident
a long-term care facility must be able to prove that any incidence of suspected abuse was investigated
while the long-term care facility investigates suspected abuse, individuals living in the facility must be protected from any further harm or abuse
suspected abuse should be reported for anyone living at the facility, but not for individuals who only come to the facility twice a week for physical therapy

Explanation:

🆕 New Concept Discovered: Abuse Investigation Protocols
Federal and state regulations governing long-term care facilities.

Step 1: Analyze Statement 1

Under federal regulations (such as CMS guidelines in the United States), a long-term care facility must thoroughly investigate all allegations of abuse. The results of all investigations must be reported to the administrator and to other officials in accordance with State law within 5 working days of the incident. Therefore, the facility must investigate and report within this timeframe. This statement is true.

Step 2: Analyze Statement 2

Facilities must maintain documented evidence of all investigations, including the steps taken, interviews conducted, and conclusions reached, to prove compliance with federal and state monitoring standards. This statement is true.

Step 3: Analyze Statement 3

During any active investigation of suspected abuse, the facility must take immediate action to prevent further potential abuse. This includes protecting the resident(s) involved (e.g., by suspending the accused staff member or separating individuals) while the situation is being evaluated. This statement is true.

Step 4: Analyze Statement 4

Mandatory reporting and protection laws apply to any individual receiving care or services from the facility, regardless of whether they are full-time residents or outpatients receiving temporary services like physical therapy. Excluding outpatient individuals from abuse reporting is incorrect and unlawful. This statement is false.

Answer:

• A long-term care facility must investigate any suspicion of abuse within 5 working days of the incident
• A long-term care facility must be able to prove that any incidence of suspected abuse was investigated
• While the long-term care facility investigates suspected abuse, individuals living in the facility must be protected from any further harm or abuse