PONTOTOC HEALTH & REHAB CENTER

278 WEST EIGHTH STREET, PONTOTOC, MS 38863 (662) 489-6411
For profit - Corporation 60 Beds ADVANCED HEALTH CARE MANAGEMENT Data: November 2025
Trust Grade
88/100
#20 of 200 in MS
Last Inspection: July 2024

Within standard 12-15 month inspection cycle. Federal law requires annual inspections.

Overview

Pontotoc Health & Rehab Center has a Trust Grade of B+, indicating it is above average and recommended for families considering care options. It ranks #20 out of 200 facilities in Mississippi, placing it in the top half, and is the best option among the three facilities in Pontotoc County. However, the facility is experiencing a worsening trend, with the number of issues increasing from 1 in 2023 to 4 in 2024. Staffing is a strength, with a 4/5 star rating and a turnover rate of 29%, which is significantly lower than the state average, suggesting that staff are experienced and familiar with the residents. On the positive side, there have been no fines reported; however, there was a serious incident in which a resident's pain management was not properly monitored, and another instance where the care plan for assistance with daily living activities was not followed, raising concerns about the quality of care.

Trust Score
B+
88/100
In Mississippi
#20/200
Top 10%
Safety Record
Moderate
Needs review
Inspections
Getting Worse
1 → 4 violations
Staff Stability
✓ Good
29% annual turnover. Excellent stability, 19 points below Mississippi's 48% average. Staff who stay learn residents' needs.
Penalties
✓ Good
No fines on record. Clean compliance history, better than most Mississippi facilities.
Skilled Nurses
⚠ Watch
Each resident gets only 28 minutes of Registered Nurse (RN) attention daily — below average for Mississippi. Fewer RN minutes means fewer trained eyes watching for problems.
Violations
○ Average
8 deficiencies on record. Average for a facility this size. Mostly minor or procedural issues.
★★★★★
5.0
Overall Rating
★★★★☆
4.0
Staff Levels
★★★★★
5.0
Care Quality
★★★★☆
4.0
Inspection Score
Stable
2023: 1 issues
2024: 4 issues

The Good

  • 4-Star Staffing Rating · Above-average nurse staffing levels
  • 5-Star Quality Measures · Strong clinical quality outcomes
  • Low Staff Turnover (29%) · Staff stability means consistent care
  • Full Sprinkler Coverage · Fire safety systems throughout facility
  • No fines on record
  • Staff turnover is low (29%)

    19 points below Mississippi average of 48%

Facility shows strength in staffing levels, quality measures, staff retention, fire safety.

The Bad

Chain: ADVANCED HEALTH CARE MANAGEMENT

Part of a multi-facility chain

Ask about local staffing decisions and management

The Ugly 8 deficiencies on record

1 actual harm
Jul 2024 4 deficiencies
CONCERN (D)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Comprehensive Care Plan (Tag F0656)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, staff interview, record review and facility policy review the facility failed to implement a care plan reg...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, staff interview, record review and facility policy review the facility failed to implement a care plan regarding a resident needing assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADL) for one (1) of 17 care plans reviewed. Resident #41 Findings Include Review of the facility policy titled, Comprehensive Plan of Care with a revision date of 10/10/22 revealed Policy: It is the policy of this facility to develop and implement a comprehensive person-centered care plan for each resident, consistent with resident rights, that includes measurable objectives and timeframes to meet a resident's medical, nursing, and mental and psychosocial needs that are identified in the resident's comprehensive assessment . Record review of the Care Plan Detail for Resident #41 revealed Focus: Res (Resident) requires assist with all ADL's .Interventions/Task .Assist with all .Bathing .Personal Hygiene . An observation on 07/23/24 at 10:28 AM, revealed Resident #41 sitting up in her wheelchair with 6-8 white hairs on both sides of her chin that were approximately 1/8- 1/4 inch long. An observation and interview on 7/24/24 at 9:15 AM, with Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) #1 confirmed Resident #41 had chin hairs on both sides of her chin that should have already been removed. She stated the resident had a doctor's appointment yesterday and she got in a hurry and did not remove them when she gave the resident her shower. She stated most women don't want hair on their face. CNA #1 stated, I know I would not. An interview on 7/24/24 at 9:40 AM, with the Minimum Data Set/Registered Nurse (MDS/RN) revealed she develops the care plans for ADL's and confirmed that Resident #41 needed assistance with her ADL's that included her facial hair removal. She agreed that the care plan was not implemented if the resident had a shower, and the facial hair was not removed. An interview on 7/24/24 at 1:30 PM, with the Director of Nurses (DON) confirmed Resident #41 needed assistance removing the hair from her chin and therefore her ADL care plan was not implemented. Record review of Resident #41's admission Record revealed the resident was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with medical diagnoses which included Unspecified Dementia. Record review of Resident #41's MDS with an Assessment Reference Date (ARD) of 6/11/24 revealed in Section GG the resident was totally dependent on staff for bathing and personal hygiene.
CONCERN (D)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Deficiency F0658 (Tag F0658)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, staff interview, record review and facility policy review, the facility failed to administer a medication ...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, staff interview, record review and facility policy review, the facility failed to administer a medication according to the physician orders for one (1) of 31 medication administration opportunities. Resident #23 Findings Include: Review of the facility policy titled, Medication Administration with a revision date of 6/8/23 revealed Policy .Medications are administered by licensed nurses, or other staff who are legally authorized to do so in this state, as ordered by the physician and in accordance with professional standards of practice, in a manner to prevent contamination or infection . An observation and interview on 7/24/24 at 8:15 AM, revealed Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) #1 allowed Resident #23 to self administer an inhaler with no instructions to rinse and spit afterwards according to physician orders. LPN #1 stated, Well I messed that up. She revealed the resident refuses to rinse and spit, but I should have reminded her of the need to do so. She stated she was not sure the purpose of rinsing and spitting after the inhaler, unless it was just to get the taste out of their mouth. She confirmed Resident #23's order indicated the resident needed to rinse and spit following the administration of the inhaler, so therefore she did not follow the physician orders. An interview on 7/24/24 at 10:30 AM, with the Director of Nurses (DON) confirmed the nurse did not follow the physician orders and the nurse did not instruct the resident to rinse and spit after the administration of the inhaler. She stated that the purpose of rinsing and spitting after the inhaler was to prevent yeast and sores in the residents' mouth. Record review of physicianOrder Details revealed the following: 8/7/23 BREO ELLIPTA Inhaler 100-25-1 puff inhale orally one time a day related to Mild Intermittent Asthma, Uncomplicated, Rinse mouth with water (H2O) and spit after use. Record review of Resident #23's admission Record revealed the resident was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with medical diagnoses that included Mild intermittent asthma, uncomplicated and Acute Cough.
CONCERN (D)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

ADL Care (Tag F0677)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, staff interview, record review and facility policy review, the facility failed to remove facial hair on a ...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on observation, staff interview, record review and facility policy review, the facility failed to remove facial hair on a resident requiring assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADL) for one (1) of 17 residents sampled. Resident #41 Findings Include: Record review of the facility policy titled, Activities of Daily Living (ADL) with a revision date of 9/15/22 revealed . Policy Explanation and Compliance Guidelines .3. A resident who is unable to carry out activities of daily living will receive the necessary services to maintain good nutrition, grooming, and personal and oral hygiene . During an observation on 07/23/24 at 10:28 AM, revealed Resident #41 sitting up in her wheelchair with 6-8 white hairs on both sides of her chin that were approximately 1/8- 1/4 inch long. During an observation and interview on 7/24/24 at 9:15 AM with Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) #1 confirmed that Resident #41 had chin hairs on both sides of her chin that should have already been removed. She stated the resident had a doctor's appointment yesterday and she got in a hurry and did not remove them when she gave the resident her shower. She stated most women don't want hair on their face. CNA #1 then stated I know I would not. An observation and interview on 7/24/24 at 9:25 AM, with the Director of Nurses (DON) confirmed Resident #41 had facial hair that should have been removed with her bath and should have been documented correctly under whether the resident had facial hair. She stated that facial hair removal is part of bathing and she expected it to be done. Record review of Resident #41's documented baths revealed the resident received a bath on 7/23/24 at 10:51 AM. Record review of Resident #41's admission Record revealed the resident was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with medical diagnoses that included Unspecified Dementia. Record review of Resident #41's Minimum Data Set (MDS) with an Assessment Reference Date (ARD) of 6/11/24 revealed in Section GG the resident was totally dependent on staff for bathing and personal hygiene.
CONCERN (D)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Deficiency F0679 (Tag F0679)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on resident and staff interviews, record review and facility policy review, the facility failed to provide weekend activit...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on resident and staff interviews, record review and facility policy review, the facility failed to provide weekend activities for three (3) of eight (8) residents reviewed in the resident council meeting. Resident # 7, Resident #29, and Resident #40. Findings include: A record review of the facility policy titled Activities with a revised date of 11/28/2017 revealed, Policy: This facility shall provide ongoing activities in accordance with the interest, physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being of each resident During the resident council meeting held on 7/24/24 at 1:30 PM, with 8 residents in attendance, 3 residents revealed that they do not have activities on the weekend and stated there is really nothing for them to do. They stated they wished they had more things to do like they do during the week. Resident #7 During an interview in the resident council meeting, Resident #7, who is also the resident council president, revealed we don't have activities on the weekends. We have a preacher who comes in at 10 AM on Sundays and has Sunday School, but other than that, we really don't have anything to do. She revealed it would be nice to have something to do. Record review of Resident #7's admission Record revealed an admission date of 12/04/2020. Record review of Resident #7's Minimum Data Set (MDS) with an Assessment reference date (ARD) of [DATE], Section C, revealed a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 15, which indicated Resident #7 is cognitively intact. Review of Section F Preferences for Customary Routine and Activities F0500 revealed While you are in this facility how important is it to you to do things with groups of people? And how important is it to you to do your favorite activities? revealed that Resident #7 considered this to be Somewhat Important. Resident #29 Resident #29 revealed in an interview, during the resident council meeting, We don't have activities on the weekend. There's really nothing to do. We understand the Activities Director must spend time with her family, but it would be nice to have something to do. Record review of Resident #29's admission Record revealed an admission date of 11/02/2018. Record review of Resident #29's MDS with an ARD of [DATE], Section C, revealed a BIMS score of 15, which indicated Resident #29 is cognitively intact. Review of Section F Preferences for Customary Routine and Activities F0500 revealed While you are in this facility how important is it to you to do things with groups of people? And how important is it to you to do your favorite activities? revealed that Resident #29 considered this to be Somewhat Important. Resident #40 Resident #40 revealed in an interview during the resident council meeting, We have coloring books and games that we can come in here and do by ourselves, but we don't have something to do as a group. She revealed that a lot of times, families come and visit on the weekends. Resident #40 stated,I guess that's why we don't have any activities. We just mainly stay in our rooms. Record review of Resident #40's admission Record revealed an admission date of 04/11/2022. Record review of Resident #40's MDS with an ARD of 06/24/24, Section C, revealed a BIMS score of 15, which indicated Resident #40 is cognitively intact. Review of Section F Preferences for Customary Routine and Activities F0500 revealed While you are in this facility how important is it to you to do things with groups of people? And how important is it to you to do your favorite activities? revealed that Resident #40 considered this to be Very Important. In an interview on 7/24/24 at 3:08 PM, the Activities Director revealed she is aware the weekend activities are lacking and confirmed the residents could benefit from organized activities. She revealed the residents have complained to her that there is nothing to do on the weekends, and she tried to come in at times and do activities with them, but it is not consistent. She revealed Resident #40 specifically voiced to her again recently that there is nothing to do on the weekends and has told her that it's boring on the weekends and the only thing they do is sit in their rooms. In an interview on 7/24/24 at 3:32 PM, the Director of Nurses (DON) revealed she was aware there had been complaints in the past from some residents wanting more activities on the weekend. She revealed she thought that the Activities Director was leaving stuff with the charge nurse at the desk for them to do on the weekends, but she admitted she was not sure. In an interview on 7/24/24 at 4:40 PM, the Administrator confirmed the weekend activities are lacking. She revealed that we recently added an extra nurse to help with weekend activities but confirmed that they had not fully implemented it yet.
Jun 2023 1 deficiency
CONCERN (D)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Infection Control (Tag F0880)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Resident #16 An observation and interview on 06/05/23 at 11:05 AM, with Resident #16 revealed his nebulizer machine and mask we...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Resident #16 An observation and interview on 06/05/23 at 11:05 AM, with Resident #16 revealed his nebulizer machine and mask were located on the bedside table with no storage bag placed over the nebulization mask. The resident revealed he used the nebulizer several times a day. An observation on 06/06/23 at 9:05 AM, revealed Resident #16's nebulizer mask lying on the bedside table with no storage bag over the mask. An observation on 06/07/23 at 9:30 AM, revealed Resident #16's nebulizer mask clipped onto the nebulizer machine located on the bedside table with no storage bag placed over the mask. An interview on 06/07/23 at 9:40 AM, with Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) #2 confirmed that Resident #16's nebulizer mask was not placed in a storage bag. She revealed that not placing the mask in a storage bag could cause the mask to become contaminated with germs and could lead to respiratory issues. An interview on 06/07/23 at 9:55 AM, with the Infection Preventionist (IP) revealed that staff are supposed to keep the nebulizer mask bagged if not in use. She revealed that leaving Resident #16's mask out of the storage bag could cause bacteria to enter the mask and could cause respiratory infection. An interview with the Director of Nursing (DON) on 06/07/23 at 10:10 AM, acknowledged that Resident #16's nebulizer mask should not be left out in the environment and doing so could lead to respiratory infection. She stated that the facility has IP's (in pouches) that the mask should be stored in between usage. Record review of the medical record revealed Resident #16 was re-admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses that included Personal history of COVID-19, Centrilobular Emphysema, Anxiety Disorder, and Shortness of Breath. Record Review of Resident #16's Physician Orders List revealed an order dated 01/12/23, DUO-NEB 0.5-2.5MG(milligrams)/3ML(milliliter) neb (nebulizer) give 3ML inhalation via nebulizer QID (four times a day); Emphysema Record review of the MDS with an ARD of 04/04/23 revealed under section C a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 13, which indicates Resident #16 is cognitively intact. Based on observations, staff interviews, record review and facility policy review the facility failed to prevent the possible spread of infection during medication pass for two (2) of 35 medication administrations observed (Resident #18 and Resident #21) and by not storing a nebulizer mask properly when not in use for one (1) of five (5) residents reviewed for respiratory care (Resident #16). Findings Include: Review of the facility policy titled, Infection Prevention and Control with a revision date of 5/12/23 revealed, Policy .This facility has established and maintains an infection prevention and control program designed to provide a safe, sanitary, and comfortable environment and to help prevent the development and transmission of communicable diseases and infections as per accepted national standards and guidelines. Review of the typed statement on facility letterhead revealed the facility did not have a policy on utilizing a barrier when administering medications and was signed by the Administrator dated 6/7/23. Review of the typed statement on facility letterhead revealed the facility did not have a policy on nebulizer storage when not in use that was signed by the Administrator and dated 6/7/23. Resident #18 An observation on 6/7/23 at 9:18 AM with Resident #18 revealed Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) #2 entered the resident's room to administer medications and eye drops to the resident and placed a bottle of eye drops on the resident's bedside table with no barrier and did not wipe down the table prior to placing the eye drops on the table. LPN #2 then administered the resident's other medications, followed by the eye drops. After administering the eye drops, LPN #2 returned the eye drop bottle to her medication cart and placed them back in the drawer of the medication cart. An interview on 6/7/23 at 9:30 AM, with LPN #2 confirmed that she should have put a barrier down to set the eye drops on instead of setting them directly on the resident's bedside table, because there was no way to know what could have been on that table. She stated that the barrier would have prevented the possible spread of infection. Record review of Resident #18's June 2023 Physician Orders revealed an order dated 12/27/18 for Artificial Tears one drop each eye twice per day for Dry Eyes. Record review of Resident #18's Face Sheet revealed the resident was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with medical diagnoses that included Dry Eye Syndrome. Record review of Resident #18's Minimum Data Set (MDS) with an Assessment Reference Date (ARD) of 5/16/23 revealed in Section C a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) of 15, which indicated the resident was cognitively intact. Resident #21 An observation on 6/7/23 at 8:57 AM, with Resident # 21 revealed that LPN #1 entered the resident's room, set the resident's ordered eye drop bottle on the overbed table with no barrier, administered the residents by mouth (PO) medications and then picked the eye drop bottle up off of the overbed table and administered the eye drops. LPN #1 then left the residents room and returned the eye drop bottle to the medication cart drawer. An interview on 6/7/23 at 9:15 AM, with LPN #1 confirmed she set Resident #21's eye drops on the overbed table with no barrier before administering and then returned them to the medication cart. She revealed that she should have used a barrier under the eye drops before setting them on the overbed table to prevent the possible spread of infection and she stated that she knew better. An interview on 6/7/23 at 9:50 AM, with the Infection Preventionist (IP) confirmed that the nurses should have placed a barrier down to place the eye drop bottle on instead of setting them directly on the resident's furniture. She stated that they are absolutely supposed to use a barrier and that the nurses are trained in using a barrier for infection control purposes when they are hired and during annual in-services. An interview on 6/7/23 at 2:10 PM, with the Director of Nurses (DON) confirmed that the nurses should not set an eye drop bottle down in the resident's room without using a barrier to prevent the spread of infection. Record review of Resident #21's Physician Orders List revealed an order dated 3/31/21 for Olopatadine HCL 0.1% eye drops, administer one drop in both eyes daily for Allergies. Record review of Resident #21's Face Sheet revealed the resident was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with medical diagnoses that included Unspecified Dementia, Unspecified Severity with behavioral disturbances and Allergic Rhinitis Unspecified. Record review of Resident # 21's MDS with an ARD of 5/30/23 revealed in Section C a BIMS of 11 which indicated the resident was moderately cognitively impaired. Record review of the facility in-services regarding infection control revealed the facility had an in-service on 7/22/22 and 2/16/23 that was attended by all nursing staff including LPN #1 and LPN #2.
Dec 2021 3 deficiencies 1 Harm
SERIOUS (G)

Actual Harm - a resident was hurt due to facility failures

Deficiency F0697 (Tag F0697)

A resident was harmed · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on family interview, staff interviews, facility policy review, and record review, the facility failed to treat, monitor, a...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on family interview, staff interviews, facility policy review, and record review, the facility failed to treat, monitor, and manage the resident's pain for one (1) of three (3) residents assessed for pain. Resident #143. Findings include: Review of the facility policy titled, Pain: Assessment, Scale and Management, dated 11/28/2017, revealed, POLICY: .facilities shall provide management of pain to ensure that residents attain or maintain the highest practicable physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being .PROCEDURE: .attempts to control pain shall be employed until the resident reaches an acceptable comfort level . A phone interview on 12/28/2021 at 8:25 AM, with Resident #143's daughter, revealed her mother had a brain aneurysm on 2/1/2019, and was admitted to the facility on [DATE], for therapy with the plan to return home. She revealed that the resident's condition deteriorated, and she was admitted to the hospital on [DATE] and was discharged to a hospice center after hospitalization. She revealed her mother passed away on 5/20/2021. She revealed she attended a dental appointment with her mother on 4/19/2021 and was horrified when she observed her mother's teeth had deteriorated and several were broken off at the gum line and caused her pain when she ate. She revealed her mother's teeth were not in that condition the last time she was able to see them. She revealed when COVID-19 started, she was only allowed to visit through the window, and during the few in person visits she had with her mother, both she and her mother were required to wear masks and remain at a distance, therefore, her mother's teeth were not visible to her. She revealed the staff did not give her mother the ordered pain medications that would have eased the pain and allowed less discomfort during meals. An interview on 12/29/2021 at 8:45 AM, with the Speech Therapist (ST) revealed she had worked with the resident on swallowing. She revealed the resident had discomfort in her teeth when she ate the mechanical soft diet and the diet was changed to a pureed diet to ease the pressure during meals. She revealed that during the assessment of the resident's mouth, she noted the resident's bottom front tooth was present, but decayed and biting down caused her discomfort. ST stated she thinks a dental consult was postponed when the resident had COVID-19. A phone interview on 12/29/2021 at 10:45 AM, with Registered Nurse (RN) #1, revealed she had taken care of Resident #143. She revealed the resident complained of pain in her mouth, and when she evaluated her mouth, she noted several teeth were broken off at the gum line. She revealed she did not remember if she gave the resident anything for pain or if she offered other comfort measures, but if she had given pain medication, it would have been documented. She revealed if pain medication was not documented, she did not give. She revealed pain medication should have been given when resident was having pain. An interview on 12/29/2021 at 12:40 PM, with the Director of Nursing (DON), revealed when Resident #143 complained of pain, interventions to alleviate pain should have been implemented. She revealed the pain medication should have been given, the physician should have been notified concerning findings in resident's mouth, and a follow up for pain evaluation should have been done. She revealed the resident should have received treatment and been closely monitored to ensure comfort and well-being and her pain should not have been left untreated. The DON confirmed the resident had an order for Tylenol as needed (PRN), and this was not administered to help ensure the resident was comfortable. She confirmed the resident's pain was not treated and the facility failed to ensure the resident's pain was monitored and treated appropriately. An interview on 12/29/2021 at 12:45 PM, with the Administrator, revealed there was documentation the resident was in pain and no treatment was given. She confirmed the facility failed to ensure the resident's pain was monitored and treated appropriately. The Administrator confirmed that by pain medication not being administered as ordered and by the delay in obtaining a dental consult, the resident's pain was not managed properly. Record review of ST Progress Note, dated 3/24/2021, revealed, Patient unable to tolerate mechanical soft consistencies due to signs and symptoms (s/s) of dysphagia and reported pain with teeth during mastification. Record review of nurses note on 3/5/2021 at 01:54 PM, revealed, Resident complains of mouth pain, pointed to left side of mouth. Noted upon view resident has a molar broken off and noted decay. And also bottom teeth are broken off to the gums. Resident unable to eat and drink due to intolerance of heat and cold on tooth . Record review of the March 2021 Physician's Orders revealed an order dated 2/7/2021 for Acetaminophen 325 milligram tablet and give two tablets to equal 650 milligrams by mouth every four hours as needed for mild pain 1-3. Record review of electronic Medication Administration Record revealed the resident did not receive any doses of the pain medication as ordered for the months of February, March, April, or May of 2021. Record review of Resident #143 ' s electronic Medication Administration Record also revealed there was a lack of monitoring for pain for the resident. Record review of Resident #143's care plan revealed a care plan was not developed for the resident for mouth pain. Record review of the quarterly Minimum Data Set (MDS) with an Assessment Reference Date (ARD) of 3/2/2021, Section C - Cognitive, revealed a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 2, which indicated severe cognitive impairment. Record review of the Face Sheet revealed the resident was admitted to the facility on [DATE] with diagnoses of Pain, unspecified, Dysphagia - Oropharyngeal Phase, Cognitive Communication Deficit, and Aneurysm of Vertebral Artery.
CONCERN (D)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Deficiency F0645 (Tag F0645)

Could have caused harm · This affected 1 resident

**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on staff interview and record review the facility failed to correctly complete a Level I Pre-admission Screening (PAS) for...

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**NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** Based on staff interview and record review the facility failed to correctly complete a Level I Pre-admission Screening (PAS) for a resident requiring a Level II Pre-admission Screening and Resident Review (PASRR) for major mental illness for one (1) of three (3) residents reviewed for no PASRR with diagnosis. Resident #42. Findings include: An interview and record review of Resident #42's admission paperwork and Level I Pre-admission Screening (PAS), on 12/28/21 at 10:00 AM, with the Social Worker (SW), confirmed Resident #42 was admitted to the facility on [DATE], with a diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder. The SW confirmed Resident #42 had a physician's order for Seroquel 25 milligrams (mg), dated 6/1/21. The SW confirmed that she answered PAS questions incorrectly related to person has diagnosis of major mental illness, person has a recent history of a major mental illness, and person takes, or has a history of taking psychotropic medication, causing the PAS not to trigger for Resident #42 to have a Level II Pre-admission Screening and Resident Review (PASRR). SW confirmed it was important for a PAS to be completed correctly, to ensure Resident #42 received appropriate mental health services while in the nursing facility. An interview, on 12/28/21 at 02:35 PM, with the Administrator, confirmed the PAS submitted for Resident #42, on 6/7/21, had questions answered incorrectly. The Administrator confirmed the questions being answered incorrectly on the PAS, caused Resident #42 to not receive a Level II PASRR. The Administrator confirmed she was aware that Resident #42 had a diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder and a physician's order for Seroquel 25mg, dated 6/1/21, in the admissions paperwork, when admitted to the nursing facility on 6/1/21. The Administrator confirmed it was important for Resident #42 to have received a Level II PASRR to ensure the facility provided appropriate mental health services while in the nursing facility. The Administrator stated the facility did not have a policy regarding completion of a PAS. Record review, of the PAS, for Resident #42, revealed it was submitted on 6/7/21. The PAS was answered, no, for person has diagnosis of major mental illness, person has a recent history of a major mental illness, and person takes, or has a history of taking psychotropic medication. Record review of the Face Sheet revealed Resident #42 was admitted to the facility on [DATE]. Record review of the Diagnosis/History revealed a diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder dated 6/1/21. Record review the June 2021 Physician's Orders revealed an order dated 6/1/21 for Seroquel 25mg one (1) orally two times a day, Altered Mental Status. Review of the Minimum Data Set (MDS) Significant Change in Status Assessment, dated 12/17/21, noted Resident #42 had a Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) score of 05, which indicated the resident had severe cognitive impairment.
CONCERN (F)

Potential for Harm - no one hurt, but risky conditions existed

Food Safety (Tag F0812)

Could have caused harm · This affected most or all residents

Based on observation, interview, record review and facility policy review, the facility failed to provide a safe and clean environment for preparing and storage of food for two (2) of three (3) kitche...

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Based on observation, interview, record review and facility policy review, the facility failed to provide a safe and clean environment for preparing and storage of food for two (2) of three (3) kitchen/nourishment room tours. Findings include: Review of facility policy, titled, Cleaning Instructions: Oven, dated 2017, revealed Policy: Ovens will be cleaned as needed and according to the cleaning schedule (at least once every two weeks). Spills and food particles will be removed after each use . Review of facility policy, titled, Cleaning Instructions: Ranges, dated 2017, revealed, Policy: The cook/chef on each shift is responsible for keeping for range as clean as possible during the preparation of the meal. The range will be cleaned after each use. Spills and food particles will be wiped up as the occur . Review of facility policy, titled, Cleaning Instructions: Fryers, dated 2017, revealed Policy: Fryers will be cleaned on a regular basis and cared for in such a way to maintain optimum production . Review of facility policy, titled, Food from Outside Sources, dated 2008, revealed, .Procedure: 5. Food brought in should be labeled with the individual's name and dated if it must be stored. An observation, on 12/28/21 at 2:00 PM, revealed there was a yellow and brown build up on a large steam table pan lid, a flat/thin silver sheet of metal, and two (2) cookie sheets, that were being used to cover the deep fryer. There were four (4) deep fryer baskets, sitting on top of the deep fryer covers, covered with yellow and brown build up. The stove top had black colored build up on the areas surrounding the eyes. There was black, crusty, build up on the pipes under each stove eye. The inside of the convection oven doors was covered with a dark brown build up that had run down on the ledge on the outside of the stove under the oven doors. The back wall of the convection oven was covered in a dark brown build up. There was a dark and thick, yellow and brown, build up on the silver panel located behind the stove. There were six (6) baking pans and five (5) pots covered with a dark brown and black build up on the outside. The baking pans had a dark brown build around the sides on the inside of the pans. An observation and interview, on 12/28/21 at 2:12 PM, with Dietary [NAME] #1, confirmed that there was grease build up on the stove top, that there was black crusty build on the pipes under the stove eyes, that there was a yellow and brown build up on the 4 deep fryer baskets, that there was a yellow and brown grease build up on the large steam table pan lid, a flat piece of silver metal, and two (2) cookie sheets, that were being used to cover the deep fryer, that there was a brown build up inside the doors of the convection oven, that there was a dark brown build up on the ledge of the convection oven on the outside under the doors, that there was a brown build up on the back wall inside of the convection oven, and that there was a yellow and dark brown build up on the silver panel located behind the stove. Dietary [NAME] #1 stated all of the appliance's should have been cleaned and were supposed to be cleaned every week. Dietary [NAME] #1 stated she did not know when the last time the deep fryer was used or cleaned. An observation and interview, on 12/28/21 at 02:20 PM, with Dietary Staff #2, confirmed the stove top, the deep fryer covers, and the 4 deep fryer pans had grease build up and had not been cleaned. Dietary Staff #2 revealed she did not know who was assigned to clean the stove and she did not know how long the fryer basket had been dirty. Dietary Staff #2 confirmed the baking pans and the pots had yellow and black build on the outside and the baking pans has dark brown build up on the inside. An interview, on 12/28/21 at 02:25 PM, with Dietary Staff #3, revealed the deep fryer had not been used in a very long time, and she could not give a specific time frame. Dietary Staff #3 stated there were plenty of cleaning supplies available to clean the kitchen appliances, but did not know who was supposed to be cleaning the fryer. An observation and interview, on 12/28/21 at 03:30 PM, with the Administrator, confirmed there was a brown and yellow grease build up on a large steam table pan lid, a flat piece of silver metal, and two (2) cookie sheets, that were being used to cover the deep fryer, that there were four (4) deep fryer baskets covered with yellow and brown build up, that the stove top had grease build on the areas surrounding the eyes, that there was black, crusty, build up on the pipes under each stove eye, that there was a thick, yellow and brown build up on the silver panel behind the stove, that the inside of the convection oven doors were covered with a dark brown build up that had run down on the ledge on the outside of the convection oven under the oven doors, that the back wall of the convection oven was covered in a dark brown build up, that there was a yellow and dark brown build up on the silver panel located behind the stove, and that the baking pans and pots were covered with a brown and black build up on the outside, that the baking pans had a dark brown build around the sides on the inside of the pans. The Administrator stated the grease build up on the stove top, on the stove pipes, and on the deep fryer could possibly cause a fire. The Administrator revealed she only had a copy, for one week, of the December 2021 kitchen cleaning schedule, that showed kitchen staff cleaning task assignments. The Administrator revealed that the December 2021 kitchen cleaning schedule did not have a date that indicated which week in December the cleaning took place. The Administrator confirmed there has been no in-services done on the cleaning of the kitchen. An observation, on 12/28/21 at 04:00 PM, revealed the resident nourishment refrigerator had an excessive amount of yellow and dark tan build up inside at the bottom of the refrigerator. The entire bottom of the inside of the refrigerator had yellow and tan spillage, that was dried and run out of the bottom under the door. There was also spillage down the lower part of the back wall inside of the refrigerator. Observation also revealed there were several outside food items and drinks in the resident nourishment refrigerator that were not labeled with a resident's name or dated, to show when they were placed in the resident nourishment refrigerator. Items observered included two (2 ) plastic containers with food, cold cut tray, two (2) zip lock bags and three (3 ) opened partially empty drink bottles in the nourishment refrigerator that were not labeled or dated. An observation and interview, on 12/28/21 at 04:05 PM, with Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) #1, confirmed the resident nourishment refrigerator had an excessive amount of yellow and dark tan build in the bottom and the nourishment refrigerator should have been cleaned. LPN #1 stated the nourishment refrigerator was supposed to be cleaned by the night shift staff, but not sure how often the refrigerator was to be cleaned. LPN #1 stated the outside food, not being labeled and dated in the resident nourishment refrigerator, could cause a resident to have been given the wrong food or old food, and a resident could get sick. An observation and interview, on 12/28/21 at 04:14 PM, with Director of Nursing (DON), revealed the resident nourishment refrigerator at the nurses station had an excessive amount of yellow and dark tan build up, in the bottom of the refrigerator, on the inside, and there was several food items, two (2 ) plastic containers with food, cold cut tray, two (2) zip lock bags and three (3 ) opened partially empty drink bottles in the nourishment refrigerator that were not labeled or dated. The DON confirmed the resident nourishment refrigerator should have been cleaned. The DON confirmed the 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM shift's nursing staff were responsible for the nourishment refrigerator cleaning task. DON confirmed a resident could get sick if they were given the unlabeled food or drinks. A telephone interview, on 12/29/21 at 11:50 AM, with Dietary Staff #4, revealed she last cleaned the stove top and the convection oven, on Saturday, 12/18/21. Dietary Staff #4 stated it was not her job to clean the stove and oven and the Kitchen [NAME] was responsible for cleaning the stove. Record review of the December kitchen cleaning schedule title, Daily Cleaning Schedule Form, dated December 2021 revealed the schedule covered one week and did not indicate which week in December it represented. The cleaning schedule revealed the cleaning of the stove top and the convection oven were to be done weekly. There was no indication of how often the fryer was to be cleaned. The December kitchen cleaning schedule revealed Dietary Staff #4's initials, that indicated she was the last one to clean the stove top and the convection oven, on a Saturday, with no specific date noting which Saturday in December the cleaning took place. Record review of the cleaning schedule for the nourishment refrigerator titled, 11-7 Cleaning Schedule, dated 04/23/14 revealed the nourishment refrigerator was to be defrosted and cleaned every Thursday, and all Certified Nursing Assistants were to work together to complete the task.
Understanding Severity Codes (click to expand)
Life-Threatening (Immediate Jeopardy)
J - Isolated K - Pattern L - Widespread
Actual Harm
G - Isolated H - Pattern I - Widespread
Potential for Harm
D - Isolated E - Pattern F - Widespread
No Harm (Minor)
A - Isolated B - Pattern C - Widespread

Questions to Ask on Your Visit

  • "Can I speak with families of current residents?"
  • "What's your RN coverage like on weekends and overnight?"

Our Honest Assessment

Strengths
  • • Grade B+ (88/100). Above average facility, better than most options in Mississippi.
  • • No fines on record. Clean compliance history, better than most Mississippi facilities.
  • • 29% annual turnover. Excellent stability, 19 points below Mississippi's 48% average. Staff who stay learn residents' needs.
Concerns
  • • 8 deficiencies on record, including 1 serious (caused harm) violation. Ask about corrective actions taken.
Bottom line: Generally positive indicators. Standard due diligence and a personal visit recommended.

About This Facility

What is Pontotoc Health & Rehab Center's CMS Rating?

CMS assigns PONTOTOC HEALTH & REHAB CENTER an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars, which is considered much above average nationally. Within Mississippi, this rating places the facility higher than 99% of the state's 100 nursing homes. This rating reflects solid performance across the metrics CMS uses to evaluate nursing home quality.

How is Pontotoc Health & Rehab Center Staffed?

CMS rates PONTOTOC HEALTH & REHAB CENTER's staffing level at 4 out of 5 stars, which is above average compared to other nursing homes. Staff turnover is 29%, compared to the Mississippi average of 46%. This relatively stable workforce can support continuity of care.

What Have Inspectors Found at Pontotoc Health & Rehab Center?

State health inspectors documented 8 deficiencies at PONTOTOC HEALTH & REHAB CENTER during 2021 to 2024. These included: 1 that caused actual resident harm and 7 with potential for harm. Deficiencies causing actual harm indicate documented cases where residents experienced negative health consequences.

Who Owns and Operates Pontotoc Health & Rehab Center?

PONTOTOC HEALTH & REHAB CENTER is owned by a for-profit company. For-profit facilities operate as businesses with obligations to shareholders or private owners. The facility is operated by ADVANCED HEALTH CARE MANAGEMENT, a chain that manages multiple nursing homes. With 60 certified beds and approximately 49 residents (about 82% occupancy), it is a smaller facility located in PONTOTOC, Mississippi.

How Does Pontotoc Health & Rehab Center Compare to Other Mississippi Nursing Homes?

Compared to the 100 nursing homes in Mississippi, PONTOTOC HEALTH & REHAB CENTER's overall rating (5 stars) is above the state average of 2.6, staff turnover (29%) is significantly lower than the state average of 46%, and health inspection rating (4 stars) is above the national benchmark.

What Should Families Ask When Visiting Pontotoc Health & Rehab Center?

Based on this facility's data, families visiting should ask: "Can I visit during a mealtime to observe dining assistance and food quality?" "How do you handle medical emergencies, and what is your hospital transfer rate?" "Can I speak with family members of current residents about their experience?"

Is Pontotoc Health & Rehab Center Safe?

Based on CMS inspection data, PONTOTOC HEALTH & REHAB CENTER has a clean safety record: no substantiated abuse findings (meaning no confirmed cases of resident harm), no Immediate Jeopardy citations (the most serious violation level indicating risk of serious injury or death), and is not on the Special Focus Facility watch list (a federal program monitoring the lowest-performing 1% of nursing homes). The facility has a 5-star overall rating and ranks #1 of 100 nursing homes in Mississippi. While no facility is perfect, families should still ask about staff-to-resident ratios and recent inspection results during their visit.

Do Nurses at Pontotoc Health & Rehab Center Stick Around?

Staff at PONTOTOC HEALTH & REHAB CENTER tend to stick around. With a turnover rate of 29%, the facility is 17 percentage points below the Mississippi average of 46%. Low turnover is a positive sign. It means caregivers have time to learn each resident's needs, medications, and personal preferences. Consistent staff also notice subtle changes in a resident's condition more quickly. Registered Nurse turnover is also low at 29%, meaning experienced RNs are available to handle complex medical needs.

Was Pontotoc Health & Rehab Center Ever Fined?

PONTOTOC HEALTH & REHAB CENTER has no federal fines on record. CMS issues fines when nursing homes fail to meet care standards or don't correct problems found during inspections. The absence of fines suggests the facility has either maintained compliance or corrected any issues before penalties were assessed. This is a positive indicator, though families should still review recent inspection reports for the full picture.

Is Pontotoc Health & Rehab Center on Any Federal Watch List?

PONTOTOC HEALTH & REHAB CENTER is not on any federal watch list. The most significant is the Special Focus Facility (SFF) program, which identifies the bottom 1% of nursing homes nationally based on persistent, serious quality problems. Not being on this list means the facility has avoided the pattern of deficiencies that triggers enhanced federal oversight. This is a positive indicator, though families should still review the facility's inspection history directly.