Failure to Timely Schedule Dermatology Consult for Resident with Ongoing Rash
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to schedule an outside dermatology consult in a timely manner for a resident who was admitted with diagnoses including depression, anxiety, and diabetes. The resident had an ongoing rash that was worsening, as documented in the clinical record and observed by medical staff. A physician ordered a dermatology consult for the resident's rash, and subsequent evaluations by medical staff confirmed the need for this consult, with the resident agreeing to the appointment. Despite these orders and ongoing symptoms, there was no evidence in the clinical record that a dermatology consult was scheduled or completed for the resident over an 18-day period. Interviews with facility staff, including the scheduler and the Nursing Home Administrator, confirmed that the appointment had not been made as required. The deficiency was cited under 28 Pa. Code 211.12(d)(3) for failing to obtain outside professional services when not available in-house.