Failure to Provide Scheduled Oral Hygiene for Dependent Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide necessary oral hygiene services to two residents who were dependent on staff for oral care. According to the facility's policy, residents unable to perform activities of daily living (ADLs), including oral hygiene, should receive assistance to maintain personal hygiene. Record review showed that one resident required assistance of one staff member for oral care every morning and at bedtime, with an increased frequency scheduled in July. Documentation revealed multiple instances where scheduled oral care was not completed, including missed AM and PM care over several days in May, June, and July, and no night or PRN oral care documented in July. A second resident, who required set-up assistance for oral care twice daily, also had missed AM and PM oral care on several days in July. During staff interviews, an administrative staff member confirmed the expectation that staff provide oral care as outlined in the care plans. The findings were based on review of facility policy, medical records, and staff interviews, demonstrating a failure to ensure that dependent residents received the necessary services to maintain oral hygiene.