(1) A substantiated initial finding becomes a final finding when:

(a) The department gives the alleged perpetrator notice of the substantiated initial finding pursuant to WAC 388-71-01210 and the alleged perpetrator does not request an administrative hearing as set forth in WAC 388-71-01240; or

(b) The ALJ dismisses the alleged perpetrator's request for hearing following default or withdrawal by the alleged perpetrator, or issues an initial order upholding the substantiated initial finding and the alleged perpetrator fails to file a petition for review of the ALJ's initial decision with the department's board of appeals consistent with the procedures contained in chapter 34.05 RCW and chapter 388-02 WAC; or

(c) A party requests review of the substantiated finding consistent with the procedures contained in chapter 34.05 RCW and chapter 388-02 WAC and the department's board of appeals issues a review decision upholding the substantiated finding.

(2) A final finding is permanent, except under the circumstances described in subsection (3) of this section.

(3) A final finding may be removed from the department's registry under the following circumstances:

(a) The department determines the finding was made in error;

(b) The finding is rescinded following judicial review;

(c) When the department is notified that a person with a final finding is deceased; or

(d) When a final finding is made against a nursing assistant, employed in a nursing facility or skilled nursing facility based upon a singular instance of neglect of a resident, the department may remove the finding of neglect from the department's registry in response to a petition. Any such removal shall be based upon a written petition by the nursing assistant at least one year after the finding of neglect has been finalized and in accordance with requirements of federal law, 42 U.S.C.1396r (g)(1)(D).