Failure to Protect Residents from Verbal and Emotional Abuse
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to protect residents from verbal and emotional abuse by both staff and other residents, as evidenced by multiple incidents involving seven residents. One resident with epilepsy and a seizure disorder was repeatedly accused by an LPN of faking seizures, both privately and in front of others, causing the resident to feel upset, embarrassed, and mistrusted. This was corroborated by a CNA who witnessed the LPN making disparaging remarks about the resident's condition in the resident's presence. Another incident involved two residents with cognitive impairments and behavioral concerns who engaged in a verbal altercation, with one threatening physical harm and the other responding with derogatory language. Staff confirmed that the altercation required intervention and separation. Additional cases included a resident with panic disorder and cognitive impairment who was prevented from leaving the dining room by a CNA, who also mocked and intimidated the resident, causing visible distress. This behavior was witnessed and described as mentally abusive by other staff members. Further deficiencies were noted when a CNA provided discourteous and physically rough care to a resident with dementia and mobility issues, including shoving the resident and making callous remarks about the risk of falling. There were also repeated instances of one resident with severe cognitive impairment verbally abusing another resident, using profane and derogatory language in common areas. Staff and the administrator acknowledged these behaviors and confirmed that such actions are considered abuse under facility policy.