Failure to Treat Resident with Dignity and Respect
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to treat a resident with respect and dignity, and did not provide care in a manner that promoted or enhanced her quality of life. Multiple certified nursing assistants (CNAs) engaged in actions that were disrespectful and failed to honor the resident's rights. These included a CNA spraying air freshener over the resident's bed, pillow, and head, then making derogatory comments about the odor in the room. Another CNA told the resident she wished she would not have to return to the room, and stated she would not be back that day. Additional CNAs rushed the resident during care, failed to provide privacy during incontinent care, and did not allow the resident adequate time to communicate her needs using her communication device. One CNA told the resident she had only ten minutes to use the bedpan and that she should be thankful for the care she received, while another CNA did not take the time to listen to the resident's needs and stated she did not have time for all of it. The resident involved had a diagnosis of ALS, resulting in significant muscle weakness, impaired coordination, speech disturbances, and required substantial assistance with most activities of daily living (ADLs). She was dependent on staff for all care, used a communication device to express her needs, and was on hospice services. The resident's care plan included interventions to ensure privacy, allow time for communication, and provide a calm environment. Despite these documented needs, staff failed to follow the care plan and did not provide care in a manner that respected the resident's dignity or communication limitations. Video footage and interviews confirmed that staff interactions were often rushed, dismissive, and at times rough or abrupt. Staff did not consistently provide privacy, failed to allow the resident time to respond, and made inappropriate comments in the resident's presence. The resident's representative reported that concerns about staff behavior were brought to facility administration, but no action was taken. Facility policy required all employees to treat residents with kindness, respect, and dignity, but these standards were not upheld in the care provided to this resident.