Failure to Protect Resident from Verbal Abuse by Dietary Staff
Penalty
Summary
A cognitively intact resident was subjected to verbal abuse by a cook during a supper meal. The incident began when the resident, seated at her dining table and using her tablet, noticed the cook looking at her. Upon asking what he wanted, the cook responded with a tone and attitude the resident found inappropriate. When the resident expressed her displeasure, the cook used vulgar language and told her to starve, prompting the resident to leave the dining room. The resident immediately reported the incident to a CNA, who recognized the behavior as verbal abuse and reported it to the LPN on duty. The LPN attempted to speak with the resident, who was upset, and then spoke with the cook. The cook admitted to using vulgar language but denied directing it specifically at the resident. The incident was subsequently reported up the chain of command, and the cook's supervisor was notified. Prior to this event, the cook had a documented history of disciplinary issues, including written warnings for smoking on campus, inappropriate behavior toward staff and management, and refusal to follow directions. The resident also indicated that this was not the first time the cook had used an inappropriate tone with her. The facility's records confirm that the cook had received training on abuse, neglect, and patient rights prior to the incident.