Staff Loud Personal Call Disrupts Resident Environment and Dignity
Penalty
Summary
Medication Aide A was observed speaking loudly on her personal cellphone near a medication cart, in proximity to a nurse's station and a common area where two residents were nearby and seven additional residents were watching television. During the call, Medication Aide A made an inappropriate statement, saying, 'I am so livid I could punch them in the face.' This behavior was audible down the hallway and continued for approximately two minutes before the aide exited the building through a side door. The aide later confirmed in an interview that she was on a personal call regarding a family member and acknowledged that her manner of speaking could have led residents to believe she was referring to them. Facility leadership, including the DON and Assistant Administrator, confirmed that staff are not permitted to take personal calls on the floor and that all staff are aware of this policy. The DON noted that Medication Aide A typically speaks loudly, and both the DON and Assistant Administrator recognized that such conduct could disrupt the peace and dignity of residents, potentially affecting those with PTSD. The facility's policy emphasizes residents' rights to dignity, respect, and a peaceful environment, which were not upheld in this instance.