Mental Abuse and Threat of Deprivation Related to Pain Medication
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a resident was free from mental abuse and threats of punishment or deprivation. A cognitively intact resident with chronic pain and multiple medical conditions, including osteoarthritis, lymphedema, and chronic osteomyelitis, was observed to be receiving pain medications as prescribed. However, during a palliative care consultation, a Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner (CRNP) discussed with the resident that if his verbally aggressive behavior towards staff persisted, his pain medications would be reduced in the future. This statement was documented in the resident's clinical record and was acknowledged by facility leadership as a form of intimidation and a threat to deprive the resident of necessary pain management. The incident was identified through review of facility policies, clinical records, and staff interviews. The facility's policy clearly states that residents have the right to be free from abuse, including mental abuse and threats of punishment or deprivation. The Nursing Home Administrator confirmed that the CRNP's statement constituted inappropriate intimidation and a threat to withhold pain medication, which is not permitted under facility policy and regulatory requirements.