Failure to Assist Resident in Obtaining Dental Services
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to assist a resident in obtaining routine dental care, specifically in scheduling an appointment for dentures, despite being aware of the resident's edentulous status and her expressed desire for dentures. The resident, an elderly female with chronic kidney disease, non-Alzheimer's dementia, diabetes mellitus, and schizophrenia, was admitted without upper or lower teeth and required a mechanical soft diet. Her care plan identified dental problems and included interventions such as daily oral care and referral to social services for dental follow-up. Documentation showed that the social worker attempted to initiate a dental referral by leaving a voicemail but did not follow up further for at least five weeks. During interviews, the resident reported being bothered by the lack of teeth and expressed a strong desire for dentures. The Social Services Director acknowledged responsibility for scheduling dental appointments and admitted not having contacted the referred dental company or determined the necessary documentation, citing lack of time. The Administrator confirmed that follow-up on dental referrals was the Social Services Director's responsibility, with ultimate accountability falling to the Administrator if not completed. Facility policy required contact with outside vendors within three business days of referral initiation, which was not met in this case.