Verbal Abuse of Resident by Housekeeper
Penalty
Summary
A resident with a history of Parkinson's disease, atrial fibrillation, depression, and diabetes mellitus, and who had moderate cognitive impairment, was subjected to verbal abuse by a housekeeper. The incident occurred when the housekeeper made derogatory and humiliating comments to the resident regarding the resident's toileting habits, including statements about feces being on and around the toilet. The resident reported feeling emotionally upset and humiliated by the comments, which were also overheard by the resident. The facility's investigation revealed that the housekeeper admitted to making the inappropriate remarks both in the hallway and directly to the resident. The incident was reported by the resident to a physical therapist, who noted the resident's emotional distress and refusal to attend therapy due to the humiliation experienced. The facility's records confirmed that the housekeeper had received prior training on abuse policies and procedures, and a background check had been conducted at the time of hire. The facility's abuse prohibition policy defines verbal abuse as the use of disparaging or derogatory language within hearing distance of residents. The surveyor's review of documentation and interviews with staff and other residents confirmed that the incident was isolated to this resident, with no other residents reporting similar mistreatment by the housekeeper.