Minnesota's Department of Health is investigating Covered Bridge Assisted Living in Holdingford after a resident, Don Brambrink, was given 18 shots of liquor in the 24 hours leading up to a doctor's appointment. The investigation was prompted when Brambrink missed a scheduled telehealth appointment after consuming alcohol while fishing. The facility's registered nurse reported that Brambrink was unresponsive after drinking.
According to the report, Brambrink received multiple doses of alcohol throughout the night before his appointment, including two shots at 6:54 p.m., two shots at 8 p.m., and two shots at 9:20 p.m. on the night prior, followed by additional shots and a beer early the next morning. His primary care physician requested that he be sent to the emergency room after staff reported he was found on the floor and felt unwell.
Brambrink's blood alcohol level was recorded at 0.23%, significantly above the legal driving limit of 0.08%. The report indicated that he had a history of mental health issues, including substance abuse and anxiety, and had previously been homeless. The facility had an alcohol management plan for Brambrink, allowing for two shots of alcohol per hour to help him cope with his mental health challenges.
Trista Barstow, the owner of Covered Bridge, defended the facility's approach, stating that they provide care for individuals with severe alcohol use disorders and that their policies comply with Minnesota regulations. She emphasized that residents have the right to make personal choices regarding alcohol consumption, even if those choices are not advisable.