New policy: Reporting of Patient Abuse and Neglect by Staff

Key takeaways:

• When observing a situation in which we believe alleged acts of abuse or neglect by a workforce member, we are responsible for immediately reporting these concerns and to halt and prevent further harm, cases of suspected active or alleged abuse are reported to Security, employees’ local leadership and supervisors (attending physician, nurse manager/charge nurse/nursing house manager) immediately. Communication shall also occur up the chain of command as appropriate; click here for Procedures/Actions.
• The purpose of prevention of patient abuse and neglect by staff policy includes, but is not limited to:
  • Ensuring compliance with all federal, state and local laws regarding reporting and investigation of cases of alleged abuse and neglect.
  • Define, establish and reinforce reporting procedures.
  • Delineate the procedure for investigating allegations of abuse and neglect.
  • Implement/recognize programs for training staff on recognition of abuse and neglect.

Here at Michigan Medicine, we have a duty to our patients to report alleged acts of abuse or neglect by a fellow workforce member. 

This concept of reporting abuse and neglect is not new, but our policy is, and it outlines a detailed process for all levels of stakeholders within the workforce.  

Please see the Reporting of Patient Abuse and Neglect by Staff Policy for the outlined process as it relates to your role and how you can report and speak up for patient safety.