Failure to Protect Resident from Abuse and Neglect
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a resident with moderate cognitive impairment, glaucoma, and Parkinson's disease was not protected from abuse and neglect by facility staff. The resident required moderate assistance with activities of daily living, including toileting and perineal hygiene, as documented in their care plan. Multiple statements from staff and the resident indicated that a nurse aide repeatedly refused to provide necessary care, told the resident to stop ringing the call bell, and insisted the resident could manage personal care independently despite the resident's visual impairment. The nurse aide also turned off the resident's call bell without providing assistance and made dismissive and intimidating remarks, causing the resident to feel fearful and anxious. Facility investigation confirmed that the nurse aide's actions constituted neglect and mental abuse, as the resident was deprived of essential care and subjected to verbal intimidation. The resident reported feeling nervous and afraid of the staff member, and expressed concerns about retaliation. Documentation and interviews substantiated that the resident's rights to be free from abuse and neglect were not upheld, as required by facility policy and state regulations.