A point person is assigned and authorized to perform specific duties as described in provider/entity or county policy. In general, a point person is to receive verbal or other reports or allegations of incidents from individuals, families and initial reporters. They are to safeguard the individual, ensure that HCSIS Incident Reports are submitted, communicate with others involved in investigations, follow-up and review of incidents. This role is pivotal in the incident management process. When an incident is reported, the point person, as a representative of the agency, is to:
(1) First confirm that appropriate actions have been taken or order additional actions to secure the safety of the individual involved in the incident.(2) Separate the individual from the target when the individual's health and safety may be jeopardized.(3) Ensure notification requirements of the Older Adults Protective Services Act (35 P.S. §§ 10225.101-10225.5102) and 23 Pa.C.S. §§ 6301-6384 (relating to Child Protective Services Law) are met.(4) Determine whether an investigation or other follow-up is needed.(5) Secure the scene of an incident when an investigation may be required.(6) Ensure that, when needed, a certified investigator is promptly assigned.(7) Notify appropriate supervisory/management personnel within 24 hours of the incident, as specified in provider/entity or county policies.(8) Initiate a HCSIS Incident Report within 24 or 72 hours as described in the Reportable Incident section of this bulletin.(9) Notify the family within 24 hours (72 hours for medication error and restraint) unless otherwise indicated in the individual support plan.