Bullying does not just exist out in the world, but it can be found in skilled nursing facilities where residents bully other residents, residents are bullied by staff, and staff are bullied by other staff.
Another less often used term for bullying is exploitation. Whether it is called bullying or exploitation, the definition is the same and involves taking advantage of another for personal gain through the use of manipulation, intimidation, threats, or coercion.
In our case study, an aide used a resident’s cell phone charger to charge his own personal phone. The resident accused the aide of then taking the charger and filed a complaint against the aide. Consequently, the aide was suspended until the matter could be resolved. Soon after that, the resident reported that the suspended aide had returned to the facility and accosted him at the snack machine where the aide was reported to have told the resident that she could go into his room whenever she wanted. This made the resident feel threatened, and it was necessary for several other aides to pull the accused aide away.
As a consequence to her threats, the administration instituted the termination process for the aide. It is important to remember that even if a resident encourages staff to use something, borrow something, or gives the staff something, it is not appropriate for staff to accept such offerings. And, it may jeopardize the staff person and put them in the position of being charged with exploitation, and even result in termination of employment. So, it is essential for staff to always report any such events immediately to a supervisor.
Even more important, it is never okay for a staff person to bully and intimidate a resident.
I. Risk Exposure:
A male resident reported that an aide used his cell phone charger to charge her phone, and he believes she took it. The HR director called the aide and told her she was suspended pending the outcome of the investigation. The next day the resident filled out a grievance form, stating he was verbally abused and threatened. He reported he was at the snack machine when the same aide “got in his face” and said he was accusing her of stealing. Several other aides pulled her away. The aide told the resident she can go into his room when she wants to. He felt threatened.
II. Potential Reason/Root Cause:
The aide appears to have intentionally come into the building to intimidate the resident, even after being suspended.
III. Quality Assurance Mitigation Strategy (QA):
The aide was suspended, and based on her aggressive actions, the decision was made to begin the pre-termination check list. If she enters the building, she will be arrested. Statements will be obtained from the other staff. Residents will be interviewed to see if they have any problems with any staff members. A new phone charger will be purchased for the resident.
IV. Potential F-Tags:
F224 – Staff Treatment of Residents
V. Performance Improvement/Education (PI):
Education will be provided to all employees on respectful interactions with residents, respecting their property, and abuse and exploitation prevention requirements.
