Failure to Provide Timely Dental Services for Damaged Denture
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide timely dental services for a resident who was admitted with dementia and atrial fibrillation. The resident's partial upper denture broke, and although the issue was identified and a dental referral was requested, there was a significant delay in arranging for dental evaluation and replacement. Documentation shows that the resident's denture broke in October, and while the family and staff attempted to coordinate dental care, the resident was not seen by a dentist until May of the following year. The facility's policy required referral for dental services within three days of denture damage or loss, with documentation of actions taken and reasons for any delay, but this was not followed. Additionally, the resident's care plan and nutritional evaluations did not reflect the broken or missing denture, nor was there evidence that the resident was assessed to ensure adequate eating and drinking while awaiting dental services. Interviews with staff and the resident's representative confirmed the delay and lack of timely intervention. As of the survey exit, there was no documentation that a new partial upper denture had been ordered for the resident.