Failure to Provide Timely Podiatry Referral for Foot Care
Penalty
Summary
A resident with a history of cellulitis in both lower limbs, hypertension, and generalized muscle weakness was admitted to the facility and was cognitively able to make decisions. The resident required supervision for personal hygiene and dressing. Documentation showed that a wound consultant recommended a referral to podiatry for onychomycosis, a fungal infection causing thickened, discolored toenails. Despite this recommendation and the resident's own request to see a foot doctor for the condition, the referral was not made. Observation confirmed the resident had long, thick, brownish-yellow toenails on both feet. Interviews with staff revealed that the treatment nurse was aware of the need for podiatry care and had informed the ADON, but the ADON did not follow through with the referral, citing oversight. The DON confirmed that podiatry care is a service provided by the facility and acknowledged the need for prompt assessment and treatment. The facility's policy indicated that residents should receive foot care in accordance with professional standards, but this was not followed in this case.