What constitutes abuse in a healthcare setting?

In a healthcare setting, abuse is defined as any action that results in harm to a resident, be it physical, emotional, or psychological. This can include physical violence, neglecting a resident's basic needs, or engaging in behavior that causes distress or fear. Recognizing that harm to a resident encompasses a wide range of behaviors is crucial for CNAs and other healthcare professionals, as it underscores the importance of safeguarding residents' well-being.

While other options may relate to neglect or improper practices within the care environment—such as failing to provide necessary care or distributing medications incorrectly—these actions aren't classified as abuse in the strictest sense. They can often fall under different categories like neglect or malpractice but do not necessarily imply that harm was intentionally inflicted on the resident. Exploring the broader spectrum of what constitutes abuse helps maintain a safe and compassionate environment for those in care.