Failure to Assist Resident with Vision Services and Glasses Repair
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to assist a resident in obtaining necessary vision services and in ensuring that the resident's glasses were in good repair. The resident, who had diagnoses including type 2 diabetes mellitus, hemiplegia, and glaucoma, was observed multiple times wearing broken bifocal glasses missing the left arm of the frame. Despite the resident expressing a desire for new or repaired glasses, no action was taken to address the issue. Staff interviews revealed that the resident's glasses had been broken for months, and although the care plan instructed staff to report any damage to glasses, neither the Director of Nursing nor the Social Service Director were aware of the problem. The process for addressing vision concerns was not followed, as staff failed to notify the appropriate personnel or initiate the required documentation for repair or replacement. Additionally, the facility did not follow up on a physician's order for an eye care visit scheduled six months after the last consultation, and there was no documentation of any subsequent appointment or evaluation. The resident's cognitive skills were noted as moderately impaired, further emphasizing the need for staff assistance in managing vision care. The facility's policy required prompt referrals and assistance with appointments for vision and hearing services, but these procedures were not implemented for this resident, resulting in an unresolved deficiency.