Provider Alert

Developmental Disabilities Administration Update

October 2, 2019

Dear Supported Living and Group Training Home providers,

We are seeing an increase in citations to providers in the areas of medication management and mandatory reporting and wanted to take this time to remind you of some important requirements.

Mandatory Reporting Reminders

  • All alleged or suspected incidents involving abuse or neglect of vulnerable adults must be reported “immediately,” per RCW 74.34.

  • The person who witnessed the incident or suspects abuse or neglect must self-report to DSHS.

  • WAC 388-101 requires residential providers to report to Residential Care Services' Complaint Resolution Unit.
  • Make a report by calling 1-800-562-6078, or online.
  • Mandated reporters must also report any of the following to law enforcement:
    • Sexual assault
    • Physical assault
    • Certain client to client assaults (refer to RCW 74.34.035 for information)
    • Suspected death by abuse/neglect, or abandonment
  • WAC 388-101-4160 also requires law enforcement notification for any incident, regardless of injury, if requested by the client, their legal representative, or family member.

Medication Management Reminders

  • Residential agencies must follow nurse delegation rules. For individuals requiring this service, only trained and registered or certified providers can give medications.
  • To reduce medication errors - each time medication is given, check the five rights:
    • Right person is receiving the medication
    • Right medication is being administered
    • Right dosage of medication is allotted
    • Right time to receive medication is now
    • Right route for administering the medication is being used
  • WAC 388-101D requires residential providers to ensure medication assistance is provided:
    • By a licensed health care provider; or
    • Under nurse delegation anytime a client is assessed as requiring medication administration.

More information

Contact us for questions or feedback.