A CNA suspects a coworker is diverting (stealing) controlled substances from the medication cart. The CNA should:
Explanation
Drug diversion endangers residents (under-medication, contamination, errors). The CNA must report suspicion to the charge nurse, administrator, or DON immediately. The facility is required to investigate, report losses of controlled substances to the DEA under 21 CFR §1301.76(b), notify the nurse's licensing board (BRN for an RN/LVN), and report to CDPH under HSC §1418.91. Confronting the coworker (a) compromises investigation. Waiting (b) risks resident harm. Inaction (c) violates the duty owed to ALL residents. Failure to report may also be misconduct under HSC §1337.9.
Law Reference: 42 CFR §483.12; HSC §1418.91This topic, taught in full in the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) guide. CNA — Complete Study Guide (2026) — PDF + EPUB, $19.99 · 14-day refund →
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