Physical Abuse of Resident by CNA During Personal Care
Penalty
Summary
A resident with a history of below the knee amputation, mood disturbance, and anxiety was involved in an incident where a CNA engaged in physical abuse during personal care. The resident became verbally agitated and flailed their arms at the CNA, who responded by grabbing the resident's wrists in an attempt to calm them. The CNA then struck the resident's left wrist area three times with her fist. The CNA immediately left the room, self-reported the incident to a nurse, and was visibly upset. An initial skin assessment showed no injury, but a small bruise and pain with movement were noted shortly after. The facility's investigation confirmed that the CNA had physically abused the resident by hitting their wrist after attempting to restrain them. The CNA admitted to the action, stating she felt threatened but acknowledged the resident had not actually attempted to hit her. The administrator and other staff confirmed the occurrence of physical abuse. The resident recalled the incident and expressed not wanting care from the CNA again. The event was documented in incident and progress notes, and the abuse was substantiated through the facility's investigation.