Resident Denied Dignified Care and Assistance by Staff
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a staff member failed to treat a resident with dignity and respect by refusing to assist with care needs. The resident, who had a history of depression, anxiety disorder, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and chronic systolic heart failure, was mildly cognitively impaired and had a care plan that emphasized the need for a trusting and non-threatening environment. On the day of the incident, the resident requested assistance from a CNA to obtain water basins for personal hygiene and to change clothes due to the warm temperature in the room. The CNA responded angrily, refused to help, and made dismissive remarks about the resident's ability to care for herself, leaving the resident on the toilet in distress. The incident was witnessed by an LPN, who found the resident crying, frustrated, and sad after the CNA left the room. The resident reported feeling unsafe and expressed concerns about not receiving necessary care. Documentation and interviews confirmed that the CNA spoke rudely, refused to assist with hygiene and clothing changes, and handled equipment in a manner that further upset the resident. The CNA denied the allegations during the investigation and was uncooperative in interviews. The facility's records and staff interviews corroborated the resident's account of being treated without dignity and respect, resulting in emotional distress.