Failure to Provide Timely Dental Services for Resident with Damaged Dentures
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide adequate medically-related social services to address a resident's dental needs. The resident, who had a diagnosis of arthritis and was edentulous, was documented as having broken or loosely fitting dentures. The care plan instructed staff to assess the fit of the dentures, assist with oral care, and provide a dental evaluation if needed. Progress notes indicated that the resident's durable power of attorney (DPOA) requested a dental appointment after being informed of broken teeth in the dentures, and a message was sent to the social service designee (SSD). However, there was no documentation of follow-up or action taken by the SSD to secure a dental appointment or repair the dentures for nearly two months. During this period, the resident continued to use the damaged dentures, as observed during meal times, and staff interviews confirmed awareness of the issue. The SSD acknowledged being aware of the problem and stated that attempts to secure a local dentist were unsuccessful, but no further efforts were made to find alternative providers or consult with the DPOA about other options. The administrative nurse mentioned a possible issue with the resident's bone structure but could not provide documentation to support this. The facility's own policy required the provision of medically related social services to maintain or improve residents' abilities, but this was not followed in the resident's case.