Verbal Abuse of Resident by CNAs
Penalty
Summary
Two CNAs verbally abused a resident with severe dementia and a history of behavioral disturbances. The incident was reported by a non-facility member who overheard the interactions via a video and audio communication app. During the incident, the CNAs made inappropriate and threatening statements to the resident, including telling the resident that their spouse was dead, giving a false year when asked, and instructing the resident to go to the bathroom in their pants. The CNAs admitted to these actions during interviews conducted as part of the facility's investigation. The facility's investigation confirmed that the CNAs' behavior violated professional standards, the resident's dignity, the right to feel safe, and the expectation of compassionate care. The resident was unable to recall the interactions and a review of the clinical record did not reveal any negative outcomes resulting from the incident. The facility's abuse prohibition policy, which includes information on verbal abuse, was in place at the time of the incident.