Minnesota Assisted Living Facility Faces Neglect Allegations
State investigators from Minnesota’s Department of Health claim that an assisted living facility provided a mentally ill man with 18 shots of liquor within 24 hours prior to a doctor’s appointment.
Investigators concluded that Covered Bridge Assisted Living in Holdingford was responsible for neglect after supplying resident Don Brambrink with a substantial amount of alcohol before his medical check-up, according to FOX 9 Minneapolis. The situation came to light when Brambrink missed his scheduled telehealth appointment due to excessive drinking while fishing.
Minnesota man Don Brambrink consumed 18 shots in 24 hours before a scheduled doctor’s appointment. (iStock)
The facility’s registered nurse (RN) reported to investigators that Brambrink was “dead to the world” after drinking. The investigative report from the Department of Health provided a timeline of his consumption: two shots on several occasions the night before, followed by more shots and a beer the morning of the appointment.
His primary care physician recommended he be taken to the emergency room. When contacted for vital signs, the nurse found Brambrink on the floor feeling unwell, leading to his transport to the emergency room shortly after. Hospital staff wanted to evaluate him overnight for alcohol withdrawal, but Brambrink refused, preferring to return home and continue drinking. His blood alcohol concentration was at 0.23%, nearly three times the legal limit of 0.08%.
Brambrink’s blood alcohol level reportedly was 0.23% (iStock)
Brambrink had numerous mental health diagnoses, including psychoactive substance abuse and anxiety. The report noted his history of hearing voices for 40 years, previous homelessness, daily alcohol consumption, and a history of methamphetamine use.
The resident’s assessment indicated a history of alcohol use, with Brambrink noted for drinking daily and his meth use history.
The facility had an “alcohol plan” for Brambrink, allowing two shots per hour in his attempt to suppress the voices he was experiencing.
The facility owner, Trista Barstow, defended the actions; she stated that assisting residents in managing consumption is a positive step. Barstow expressed disagreement with the cited deficiency and plans to appeal. She argued that their policies align with respecting resident rights and state regulations.
“Under the Minnesota Resident Bill of Rights, competent adult residents can make lawful personal choices about alcohol. Our role is to educate about risks, monitor health, and intervene when necessary,” Barstow explained. “If medical evaluation or emergency care is needed, we ensure residents’ safety.”
Fox News Digital reached out to Covered Bridge and the Minnesota Department of Health for comments.