Assisted living sent resident to doctor's appointment after giving him 18 shots, 5 am beer: officials

A state investigation has revealed that an assisted living facility in Minnesota provided a mentally ill resident with 18 shots of alcohol within 24 hours before a scheduled doctor's appointment, leading to his hospitalization. State investigators from Minnesota's Department of Health alleged that Covered Bridge Assisted Living in Holdingford neglected its responsibilities by allowing the resident, Don Brambrink, to consume a large quantity of alcohol, resulting in severe intoxication and a refusal to seek medical treatment despite clear signs of distress. According to the investigative report, Brambrink, who suffers from multiple mental health conditions, including psychoactive substance abuse and anxiety, was given alcohol throughout the day leading up to his appointment. The facility's registered nurse documented that Brambrink was administered 2 shots at 6:54 p.m., another 2 at 8 p.m., and 2 more at 9:20 p.m. On the morning of the appointment, staff continued providing him with alcohol, giving him 2 shots at 3:55 a.m., a beer at 5 a.m., and additional doses throughout the day. By 12:30 p.m., Brambrink had received 18 shots of alcohol in total. The facility had an individualized care plan for Brambrink, which included administering two shots per hour to help him manage symptoms such as hearing voices. This approach was based on the belief that alcohol could alleviate some of his psychological distress. However, this practice led to extreme intoxication, with Brambrink's blood alcohol level reaching 0.23%, nearly three times the legal limit of 0.08%. When Brambrink missed his scheduled telehealth appointment, authorities were contacted. A call from his primary care physician prompted staff to check on him, finding him unresponsive on the floor. He was transported to the emergency room, where hospital staff recommended overnight observation due to concerns over alcohol withdrawal. Despite this, Brambrink refused treatment, stating he preferred to return home and continue drinking. Brambrink's medical records indicate a long history of alcohol use, daily consumption, and past methamphetamine use. Prior to entering the facility, he was homeless and had been hearing voices for decades. His condition made him particularly vulnerable to the effects of alcohol, especially when consumed in large quantities. Covered Bridge Assisted Living's owner, Trista Barstow, defended the facility's actions during an interview with FOX 9. She described the facility as one of the few willing to accept individuals with severe alcohol addiction. Barstow argued that monitoring and assisting such residents represented a form of support, even if it seemed extreme. She emphasized that the facility adheres to Minnesota's assisted living regulations and that residents have the right to make personal choices, including consuming alcohol, as long as they remain within the bounds of the law. Barstow expressed disagreement with the findings of the state investigation, stating that the facility would appeal the decision. She highlighted the importance of respecting residents' autonomy while ensuring their safety and well-being. The case underscores the complex challenges faced by assisted living facilities in balancing patient care with regulatory compliance, particularly when dealing with individuals with severe mental health and substance use disorders.