Failure to Treat Resident with Dignity and Respect During Care
Penalty
Summary
A resident with moderate cognitive impairment and multiple psychiatric diagnoses, including paranoid schizophrenia, delusional disorders, anxiety disorder, and major depressive disorder, was dependent on staff for activities of daily living (ADLs). During an incident, an LPN with nearly 30 years of experience, along with two CNAs, attempted to assist the resident with dressing. The resident became agitated, refused assistance, and exhibited physical resistance by yelling, hitting, and biting staff. Despite the resident's distress and refusal, the LPN continued to attempt care and responded by calling the resident degrading names and using offensive language. Staff interviews confirmed that the LPN used demeaning language in the resident's presence and attempted to physically restrain the resident's hands instead of disengaging from the situation. Other staff present during the incident reported feeling uncomfortable with the LPN's actions and language, and both CNAs reported the incident to the Director of Nursing (DON) on the same day. The LPN later confirmed using degrading words, though she believed the resident did not hear them. The administrator stated that staff are expected to step away and allow time before reattempting care if a resident refuses, and to try a different staff member if needed. The facility did not have a specific policy for Resident Rights/Dignity but stated they followed regulations and standards of care.