Verbal Abuse of Resident by CNA
Penalty
Summary
A certified nurse aide (CNA) engaged in verbally abusive behavior toward a female resident with moderate cognitive impairment and a diagnosis of a rare genetic disorder associated with intellectual disability and poor coping skills. The incident occurred when the CNA called the resident an expletive in response to the resident using inappropriate language. The exchange was overheard by the facility's human resources staff, who recognized both voices and confirmed the use of the derogatory term by the CNA. The resident later reported feeling bad after being called the name, and the CNA did not deny the use of inappropriate language when questioned by staff. The resident's care plan included interventions for staff to provide positive interactions and avoid reacting to negative behavior due to her impaired cognition and behavioral challenges. Despite this, the CNA failed to maintain professional conduct and engaged in a verbal altercation with the resident. The facility's abuse policy defined verbal abuse as the use of disparaging or derogatory language toward residents, regardless of their cognitive status. The CNA had previously received training on abuse and neglect prevention.