Failure to Provide Vision Care and Assistive Devices
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a resident, identified as R138, received proper treatment and assistive devices to maintain vision. The clinical record review revealed that the resident's preferred language was Creole, and he required an interpreter to communicate with healthcare staff. Despite this, the facility did not arrange for timely vision services or provide corrective lenses, which were necessary for the resident to read and enjoy activities such as reading a newspaper. Observations showed that the resident was given a newsletter in Creole, but the staff member could not confirm if the resident could read it due to the language barrier and lack of corrective lenses. Further investigation revealed that the resident had undergone an eye examination in July 2024, which confirmed vision impairment. However, the facility did not follow up on the specialist's findings to provide the necessary corrective lenses. The resident expressed uncertainty about his ability to pay for the lenses, indicating a lack of communication and support from the facility in addressing his vision needs. The deficiency was identified through observations, interviews, and a review of the facility's policies, which highlighted the failure to arrange for necessary vision consultations and assistive devices.
Plan Of Correction
This plan of correction is submitted to comply with federal regulations. This plan is not an admission of guilt, or wrongdoing, nor does it reflect agreement with the facts and conclusions stated in the statement of deficiencies. R138 has a vision exam scheduled. The DON/designee conducted an audit of residents' last eye exam to ensure that residents with impaired vision have appropriate follow-up. The DON/designee educated licensed staff on the importance of residents receiving proper treatment and assistive devices to maintain vision. The DON/designee will audit eye consults to ensure there is appropriate follow-up. Audits will be done weekly for 4 weeks, then monthly for 2 months. Results of the audits will be submitted to the quality assurance committee to determine if further action is needed.