Failure to Provide Dental Services for Resident with Nutritional Risk
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when the facility failed to provide dental services to a resident who was admitted with diagnoses including enterocolitis, malnutrition, and adult failure to thrive. The resident, who was able to communicate needs, was observed to have only two teeth and reported that no dental services had been offered. Review of the resident's care plan showed no focus area related to dental care, despite the resident being at risk for nutritional problems and having a mechanically altered diet. The dietitian's assessment noted no dental or mouth problems affecting chewing or swallowing, but the resident expressed a desire for an upgraded diet. Interviews with facility staff revealed that oral exams were conducted on admission to determine the need for dental services, and residents with missing teeth were supposed to be referred to a dentist or denturist. However, staff confirmed that the resident had not been referred for dental services, which did not meet facility expectations. The DON also stated that the resident should have been referred for dental care, confirming the lapse in following established procedures.