Failure to Arrange Dialysis Transportation
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to coordinate and arrange a dialysis appointment for a resident with end stage renal disease and diabetes who required an extra dialysis session due to fluid overload. The physician's order specified the need for an additional dialysis treatment, but the appointment was missed because transportation was not arranged. The Social Services Designee acknowledged that arranging transportation was her responsibility and that she failed to do so, resulting in the resident missing the scheduled dialysis. Review of the facility's policy and procedure for dialysis services indicated that nursing staff are responsible for arranging outside appointments and notifying social services, while social services are responsible for coordinating transportation and notifying family or responsible parties. Additionally, licensed personnel are required to confirm transportation one hour prior to the appointment. The Director of Nursing confirmed that these procedures were not followed in this instance.