Failure to Protect Resident from Physical Abuse by Another Resident
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a resident with moderate cognitive impairment and a history of major depressive disorder and dementia was physically abused by another resident with intact cognition and a diagnosis of alcohol dependence. The incident took place in the facility's smoking area, where the aggressor, reportedly intoxicated, grabbed the victim's walker and struck the victim's right shin, resulting in redness, pain, and emotional distress. Staff interviews confirmed that the aggressor had previously exhibited combative and aggressive behavior when intoxicated. Following the altercation, the injured resident complained of moderate pain and requested transfer to an acute care hospital, where treatment for right leg pain was provided. Documentation and staff accounts indicated that the facility was aware of the aggressor's history of alcohol use and aggression, and that staff observed the presence of alcohol at the scene. The facility's policy requires protection of residents from abuse by anyone, but in this instance, the resident was not protected from physical abuse by another resident.