Resident Subjected to Verbal Abuse by CNA During Smoking Break
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a resident, who was cognitively intact and dependent on staff for multiple activities of daily living due to conditions such as quadriplegia, central cord syndrome, and other significant medical issues, was subjected to verbal abuse by a certified nurse aide (CNA). The incident took place during a smoking break, where the CNA threatened to slap the resident, mocked him, and threatened to wipe the resident's behind with an alcohol wipe. Multiple residents witnessed the event, and one reported the incident to the facility receptionist after initially hesitating due to fear of retaliation. The facility's investigation confirmed the allegations through interviews with the victim and witnesses. The resident who was verbally abused reported that the CNA teased him about his disabilities and made threatening remarks. Witnesses corroborated the account, stating that the CNA's behavior was degrading and made them feel uncomfortable. The CNA denied the allegations, claiming the interactions were joking in nature, but the facility's findings supported the residents' statements. The incident was reported to the facility's administration, which had recently changed leadership. The administrator verified the occurrence of the verbal abuse based on the investigation and witness statements. The facility's policy required protections against abuse, but the incident demonstrated a failure to ensure the resident was free from verbal abuse by staff.