Failure to Provide Routine Podiatry Care
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide appropriate foot care to two residents, both of whom had significant medical histories including diabetes, high blood pressure, and dementia. According to the facility's Podiatry Services Policy, podiatry services should be provided routinely every six to eight weeks, coordinated by nursing staff. However, review of clinical records and staff interviews confirmed that neither resident had received podiatry care since admission. Observations revealed that both residents had thick, elongated, and curved toenails, with lengths extending up to one inch beyond the ends of their toes. One resident was observed in bed with exposed feet, and a nurse confirmed the condition of the toenails. The other resident, who also had a physician order for a podiatry consult and ongoing wound care for a pressure injury, was observed during a dressing change with similarly neglected toenails. The Director of Nursing confirmed the lack of podiatry care for both residents, indicating a failure to follow facility policy and provide necessary foot care services.