Within how many hours must every serious accident be reported to DHEC and the family?

Reporting serious accidents to the Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the family of the affected individual within 24 hours is mandated to ensure timely communication and prompt action can be taken if necessary. This requirement is crucial for protecting the health and safety of residents, ensuring that any potential risks are addressed swiftly. By setting this 24-hour timeframe, the regulation aims to maintain transparency and accountability within assisted living facilities, enabling families to remain informed about incidents that may impact their loved ones. This standard helps foster a culture of responsiveness and care within the facility, ultimately promoting trust between residents, families, and caregivers.