Resident Rights Violated During Rough Handling by QMA
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a Qualified Medication Aide (QMA) failed to treat a resident with respect and dignity during care. The resident, who had diagnoses including dementia with behavioral disturbances, Alzheimer's disease, generalized anxiety disorder, pain, difficulty walking, and cognitive communication deficit, was taken to the shower room by the QMA. After the shower, the QMA transported the resident back to her room by having her sit on the seat of her rollator walker and pushing her. When the resident refused to stand up to be placed in bed, the QMA lifted her under the armpits and placed her on the bed, despite the resident's refusal and care plan interventions that emphasized offering other staff, ensuring safety, and using appropriate communication strategies due to hearing loss. An LPN witnessed the QMA speaking loudly and being rough with the resident, prompting the LPN to intervene and finish assisting the resident to bed. The facility's review determined that the QMA violated the resident's rights by disregarding her safety and not honoring her right to refuse care, although the actions were not deemed abusive. Facility policy states that residents have the right to be treated with consideration, respect, and recognition of their dignity and individuality, including the right to refuse any treatment or service.