Verbal Abuse of Cognitively Impaired Resident by CNA
Penalty
Summary
A resident with severe cognitive impairment and multiple medical conditions, including malignant neoplasm of the prostate, acute posthemorrhagic anemia, severe protein calorie malnutrition, depression, hypertension, muscle wasting, and dysphagia, was subjected to verbal abuse by a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). The incident occurred when a newly oriented CNA entered the resident's room to assist with a transfer and witnessed another CNA using foul language and derogatory terms toward the resident, including explicit language referencing the resident's status as a veteran. The resident responded by asking for help and expressing that he was not treated well at the facility. The witnessing CNA reported feeling extremely uncomfortable and left her shift early, later notifying the Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) about the incident. Facility records and interviews confirmed that the abusive language was used in the resident's presence and that the incident was corroborated by surveillance footage. The facility's investigation found sufficient evidence of verbal abuse, as defined by their policy, which prohibits disparaging or derogatory communication toward residents. The incident was reported and documented, and the staff member involved was identified as having violated facility policy regarding resident abuse.