Failure to Prevent Verbal and Physical Abuse
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to prevent verbal abuse involving a resident and a nurse. The resident, who had an intact cognition and a diagnosis of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder, reported that after requesting pain medication and cough syrup, there was a significant delay in receiving the medication. When the nurse finally responded, an argument ensued during which both the resident and the nurse exchanged derogatory language. The nurse admitted to using curse words, stating that she felt threatened and was attempting to protect herself, rather than to escalate the situation. Additionally, the facility did not prevent resident-to-resident physical abuse between two residents with impaired cognition. One resident was found with a bleeding lip and redness under the eye, and staff determined that the injuries were likely caused by the roommate, who was observed attempting to pull the injured resident out of bed. Both residents required staff assistance with mobility and transfers, and neither could articulate what had happened due to their cognitive impairments. Staff responded by separating the residents after the incident. The facility's policies require that residents be protected from all forms of abuse, including verbal and physical abuse. However, in these instances, staff did not maintain professionalism or effectively deescalate the situation, resulting in both verbal and physical altercations involving residents and staff.