Failure to Protect Resident from Verbal Abuse by CNA
Penalty
Summary
A resident with multiple diagnoses, including multiple sclerosis, mild cognitive impairment, depression, epilepsy, anxiety, and mood disorder, was involved in an incident where a certified nursing assistant (CNA) responded to the resident's call light. The resident, who used a motorized wheelchair independently but required assistance for transfers, toileting, and bathing, was reported to have run over the CNA's foot with her wheelchair. Following this, the CNA was observed and heard screaming as she exited the resident's room. A verbal altercation ensued between the CNA and the resident, requiring intervention from multiple staff members to de-escalate the situation. During the incident, the resident alleged that the CNA hit her in the throat and pushed her into her chair. A physical assessment of the resident revealed no visible injuries, though she complained of neck pain. The incident was documented in the clinical record and reported to the appropriate authorities, including the local police and state health department. The facility's policy prohibits all forms of abuse, including verbal abuse, but the CNA was found to have raised her voice at the resident during the altercation.