Failure to Provide Emergency Dental Services
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide or obtain emergency dental services for a resident who had broken a front tooth. The resident, who had diagnoses including hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and depression, was observed with broken top front teeth and reported having broken them two weeks prior without having seen a dentist. The facility's policy, last revised in 2019, stated that both routine and emergency dental services were available to meet the oral needs of each resident, yet this was not adhered to in the case of the resident. Interviews conducted during the survey revealed that the resident had not been scheduled for a dental appointment despite experiencing slight pain. A Licensed Practical Nurse indicated that the information would be passed to the Finance Director, who was responsible for arranging dental appointments. The Finance Director acknowledged that the resident had last seen a dentist several months prior and would be added to the list for the next dental visit, indicating a delay in addressing the resident's immediate dental needs.
Plan Of Correction
Plan of Correction: Approved January 17, 2025 1. Immediate corrective action taken: Resident #75 was immediately referred to dentist on 12/18/2024 and evaluated on 12/19/2024. 2. Plan to prevent reoccurrence: All residents have the potential to be affected by the deficient practice. Nursing conducted a full house audit on 1/16/2025 to ensure no other residents had any broken teeth or emergency dental care needs. None were noted. 3. The facility systemic changes: The policy titled Dental Services was reviewed by administration with no revisions. The Facility educator will re-educate licensed staff on policy titled “Dental Services.” The education will focus on actions needed when someone needs emergency dental care. 4. The Unit Managers will conduct a review of oral inspection for broken teeth and any emergent dental care not previously noted. This audit will be conducted weekly x 4 weeks then monthly x 3 months. Results will be submitted at QAPI for review and determination recommendation of frequency reviews required. Responsible party: Director of Nursing