Failure to Provide Routine Dental Services
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to obtain routine dental services for a resident, as evidenced by clinical record reviews, observations, and interviews. The resident, who had severe cognitive impairment, was observed to have several missing and discolored teeth. Documentation from the facility's consultant dental provider indicated that the resident had significant dental issues, including decay, a fractured tooth, and heavy plaque and calculus buildup. Despite these findings, there was no evidence of professional dental cleaning or treatment to address these issues. The resident's cognitive status, as recorded in her MDS assessments, showed severe impairment, which prevented her from effectively participating in her care planning decisions. The facility's documentation noted that the resident had previously refused dental treatment due to a lack of pain and progressing cancer. However, the facility did not ensure that the resident received necessary dental care, such as extractions recommended by the dental provider, and failed to assist her in making appointments or arranging transportation for dental services.
Plan Of Correction
The Facility submits this Plan of Correction under procedures established by the Department of Health in order to comply with the Department's directive to change conditions which the Department alleges is deficient under State and/or Federal Long Term Care Regulations. This Plan of Correction should not be construed as either a waiver of the facility's right to appeal or challenge the accuracy or severity of the alleged deficiencies or an admission of past or ongoing violation of State or Federal regulatory requirements. 1. Resident 1 was seen by dentist on 4/22/25. Reviewed dentist recommendations for resident and follow-up as indicated with resident/resident representative; follow-up will be completed as indicated and the plan of care will be updated. 2. A retrospective review of all residents' most recent dental consult will be completed to ensure recommendations for oral specialists were reviewed with the resident/resident responsible party and scheduled follow-up is coordinated as indicated. 3. The Administrator and/or designee will educate all RNs, LPNs, and Social worker regarding the need to ensure recommendations for oral specialists were reviewed with the resident/resident responsible party and scheduled follow-up is coordinated as indicated. 4. The Social Worker and/or designee will audit all new dental consult notes to ensure recommendations for oral specialists were reviewed with the resident/resident responsible party and scheduled follow-up is coordinated as indicated. Audits will be completed bi-weekly for 2 months, or until substantial compliance is achieved. Results will be reviewed at the QAPI meeting.