Verbal Abuse of Resident by CNA
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a certified nurse assistant (CNA) verbally abused a resident, as witnessed by a nursing student. The CNA used foul and intimidating language, telling the resident to "get back in that damn bed" and later repeating the command with profanity. The incident was corroborated by a nursing student's written statement and was reported to facility management. The resident involved had a history of extreme prematurity, short gut syndrome, and was dependent on a gastrostomy tube for nutrition and medication. Interviews with other staff and a resident's family member indicated prior concerns about the CNA's behavior, including rough handling and negative interactions with staff and residents. Review of facility records showed that the CNA had previously received a disciplinary action for unprofessional interactions and had signed an acknowledgment of the facility's abuse prevention policy, which defined verbal abuse and required staff to maintain respectful conduct. Despite these measures, the CNA's actions violated the facility's policy and the resident's right to be free from abuse. The Chief Nursing Officer confirmed that the policy was not followed in this instance.