Failure to Obtain Informed Consent Prior to Initiating Antipsychotic Medication
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that informed consent was obtained prior to initiating an antipsychotic medication for a resident diagnosed with myotonic muscular dystrophy, psychosis, and senile degeneration of the brain. The resident experienced hallucinations and was subsequently prescribed Olanzapine 2.5 mg daily by her primary care doctor and psychologist. Although the clinical record indicated that the family was aware of the situation, there was no documentation that informed consent was provided to the resident or her representative regarding the treatment options, risks, and benefits of the psychotropic medication. Additionally, the facility did not have a policy in place for initiating psychotropic medications or for obtaining informed consent, as confirmed by the DON during interviews.