Failure to Provide Oral Hygiene for Dependent Resident
Penalty
Summary
Facility staff failed to provide necessary oral hygiene services to a resident who was completely dependent on staff for all activities of daily living. The resident, who had diagnoses including hemiplegia, respiratory failure with hypoxia, dysphagia, and was dependent on a ventilator and feeding tube, was observed lying in bed with very dry, cracked lips covered by a thick layer of dried saliva and skin. The resident was unable to communicate effectively and required total assistance for hygiene and movement. During the observation, a registered nurse acknowledged the resident's lips were very dry and in need of oral care, noting the potential for bleeding or pain and the possible impact on the resident's feelings. Facility policies reviewed indicated that residents unable to perform ADLs independently should receive appropriate care, including oral care, and that care should promote well-being and dignity. However, the observed condition of the resident's lips demonstrated that these services were not provided as required.