LAC 50:VII.31705. Duty to Report

A. All incidents or allegations of abuse and/or neglect must be reported by telephone or fax within 24 hours to DHH's Health Standards Section. This must be followed by a copy of the results of the facility's internal investigation within five working days. Complete investigative reports with all pertinent documents shall be maintained at the facility. Failure to submit this information timely could result in a deficiency and/or a sanction. Those who must make a report of abuse and/or neglect are: 1. physicians or other allied health professionals; 2. social services personnel; 3. facility administration; 4. psychological or psychiatric treatment personnel; 5. registered nurses; 6. licensed practical nurses; and 7. direct care staff. B. Penalties for Failure to Make Complaint. Any person who knowingly and willfully fails to report an abuse or neglect situation shall be fined not more than $500 or imprisoned not more than two months or both. The same sanctions shall apply to an individual who knowingly and willingly files a false report. Penalties for committing cruelty or negligent mistreatment to a resident of a health care facility shall be not more than $10,000 or imprisoning with or without hard labor for more than 10 years, or both.