Minnesota Assisted Living Facility Faces Neglect Allegations Over Resident’s Alcohol Consumption

State investigators from Minnesota’s Department of Health have raised allegations against Covered Bridge Assisted Living, claiming negligence after providing excessive alcohol to a mentally ill resident. The facility reportedly gave Don Brambrink, a resident with various mental health issues, 18 shots of liquor in the 24 hours leading up to a doctor’s appointment. The health department’s findings indicated that this led to the resident missing his scheduled telehealth appointment.

Brambrink was found to have consumed a substantial amount of alcohol, including two shots at different intervals from the evening before the appointment until the afternoon of the appointment day. The investigative report also noted that he missed his telehealth appointment due to being ‘dead to the world’ after drinking while fishing, according to the facility’s registered nurse.

“The night before the scheduled appointment, the resident was given two shots of alcohol at 6:54 p.m., two shots at 8 p.m., and another two shots at 9:20 p.m. The morning of the appointment, staff gave the resident shots at several intervals, leading to a total of 18 shots,” the report indicated.

Brambrink’s primary care physician requested he be sent to the emergency room for evaluation. Hospital staff sought to keep him overnight due to alcohol withdrawal risks, but he insisted on returning home to continue drinking. His blood alcohol level was recorded at 0.23%, significantly above the legal limit.

Brambrink has been diagnosed with various mental health conditions, including psychoactive substance abuse and anxiety. He reportedly heard voices for 40 years and struggled with alcohol and meth use prior to entering the facility. Covered Bridge had an ‘alcohol plan’ in place for Brambrink, stipulating two shots per hour as part of his care strategy.

The owner of the facility, Trista Barstow, defended the facility’s method in a media interview, stating it is one of the few places accepting residents with severe alcohol issues. Barstow emphasized their role in monitoring and assisting, despite the challenges presented by extreme alcohol needs.

Barstow also highlighted the facility’s commitment to resident rights under Minnesota law, allowing adult residents to make personal choices, including consumption of alcohol. She reaffirmed the facility’s policies and care practices aimed at safeguarding resident health and safety.

The allegations of neglect have been refuted by Covered Bridge, which intends to appeal the cited deficiency. The facility argues that its care plans demonstrate adherence to regulations and dedication to resident safety.

Both Covered Bridge Assisted Living and the Minnesota Department of Health have been contacted by media for further comments on the incident.