Failure to Assess Resident Without Dentures for Speech Therapy
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a resident without upper dentures, who had a diagnosis of dysphagia, was assessed for speech rehabilitation services. The resident reported difficulty chewing food due to the absence of upper dentures, which were reportedly discarded by staff. The resident also stated that he was informed by the facility that Medicaid would not pay for replacement dentures. During an interview, the resident was observed without upper dentures, and a dental consultation confirmed that the resident was unable to eat without his teeth and was still waiting for replacement dentures. A review of the clinical record showed no evidence that the facility referred the resident to speech therapy, despite the resident's ongoing difficulties with eating and communication of these issues to both staff and a dentist. The Director of Rehabilitation confirmed that there was no assessment by a speech therapist following the dental visits or at any time during the relevant period. This lack of referral and assessment constituted a failure to provide or obtain specialized rehabilitative services as required.