CNA Terminology Unit 2

Abuse

The intentional mistreatment of a person that causes harm, pain, injury, or emotional distress.

Advance Directive

A legal document that states a person's healthcare wishes if they cannot communicate them.

Aiding and abetting

Helping, encouraging, or assisting someone in committing a wrongful or illegal act.

Assault

Threatening or attempting to harm someone, making them fear immediate injury.

Battery

Intentional, unlawful physical contact or touching without a person's consent.

Choice

A resident's right to make decisions about their own care and daily life.

Chronic

A condition that develops slowly and lasts a long time, often for life.

Coercion

Forcing or pressuring someone to do something against their will.

Confidential

Keeping a resident's personal and medical information private.

Defamation

Making false statements that damage another person's reputation.

Defamation of character

False spoken or written statements that harm a person's reputation.

Do Not Resuscitate (DNR)/ No

A medical order directing healthcare workers not to perform CPR if the person's heart or breathing stops.

Ethical standard

Guidelines for doing what is morally right and treating others with respect and dignity.

False imprisonment

Restricting a person's freedom without legal justification or consent.

Financial abuse

The illegal or improper use of another person's money, property, or belongings.

Grievances

Complaints or concerns made by residents or their families about care or treatment.

HIPAA

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act—a federal law protecting the privacy of patients' health information.

Informed consent

Permission given by a person after they understand the risks, benefits, and alternatives of a treatment or procedure.

Involuntary seclusion

Separating or isolating a resident against their will.

Laws

Rules established by government that everyone must follow.

Legal standard

The minimum level of care required by law.

Libel

Written or published false statements that damage a person’s reputation.

Mandated reporter

Neglect

Negligence

Ombudsman

Physical abuse

Policy and Procedure

Privacy

Psychological abuse

Resident council

Restraints

Scope of practice

Sexual abuse

Slander

Social services

Theft

Verbal abuse