Section 404-5-004 - ABUSE AND NEGLECT The provider must develop and implement a system to detect and prevent abuse or neglect and to handle allegations or suspicions of abuse, neglect, or exploitation. The provider must:
(A) Establish a definition of abuse or neglect that is consistent with these regulations;(B) Establish a process and timelines for prompt and accurate reporting of allegations or suspicions of abuse or neglect to appropriate outside authorities that is in accordance with applicable law;(C) Have measures and timelines for reporting of allegations or suspicions of abuse or neglect to appropriate provider administrative staff; the legal representative, if appropriate; and the service coordinator;(D) Conduct a timely, thorough, and objective investigation of all allegations or suspicions of abuse or neglect, including protection of participants during the investigation;(E) Establish a process for disciplinary action taken when staff are found to have engaged in abusive or neglectful behavior; and(F) Take appropriate corrective or disciplinary action in response to the investigation. As part of this action, the provider must:(i) Complete a review, by the director of the entity or designee, of all allegations or suspicions, and investigations and make decisions on the action to be taken;(ii) Identify the means to lessen the likelihood of further incidents if the allegation or suspicion is substantiated; and(iii) Document the allegation or suspicion, investigation, conclusion, action taken, and means to prevent further incidents.404 Neb. Admin. Code, ch. 5, § 004
Adopted effective 11/19/2022