Delay in STAT X-ray Completion Following Resident Fall
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a STAT x-ray ordered for a resident following a fall was not completed in a timely manner. The resident, who had fallen from her bed and was experiencing increased pain, had a physician's order placed for a STAT x-ray of the left hip and left shoulder. Despite the order being labeled as STAT, the x-ray was not performed until approximately 19 hours after the order was obtained. Both the LVN and DON confirmed that the facility's practice is for STAT orders to be completed within 4-6 hours, and the x-ray company's agreement indicated STAT orders should be completed within 6-8 hours. The delay was confirmed through interviews and record reviews. The resident was observed lying in bed with her left arm immobilized and reported that her arm was broken. The x-ray results later confirmed a left clavicle fracture. The facility's policy and procedures also stated that urgent radiological requests labeled as STAT should be carried out in a timely manner according to the contracted agency's policy. The failure to obtain the STAT x-ray within the expected timeframe constituted a deficiency in meeting the resident's needs for timely diagnostic services.