Failure to Inform Residents of Risks and Benefits of Psychotropic Medications
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that residents were fully informed and understood the risks and benefits of psychotropic medication use prior to administration. According to the facility's policy, residents have the right to participate in decision-making regarding their care, which includes being informed about their health status, care, and treatments. However, for two residents reviewed, there was no evidence that the risks and benefits of psychoactive medications were explained to them or their representatives before the medications were administered. One resident, who was cognitively intact and admitted with diagnoses including major depressive disorder, anxiety, and dementia, received multiple psychotropic medications such as antipsychotics and antidepressants. The consent form on file was signed by a representative prior to admission and did not specify the risks and benefits of the medications. During an interview, the resident confirmed that no one had explained the risks and benefits of her medications to her, and she expected the facility's doctor to do so. Another resident, who was severely cognitively impaired and admitted with diagnoses of dementia and depression, also received several psychotropic medications. The consent form for this resident was similarly signed by a representative before admission and lacked information about the risks and benefits of the medications. Facility staff, including the Infection Preventionist and the DON, acknowledged during interviews that the consent forms did not include this information and that it was their expectation that such education should have been provided prior to medication administration.