Failure to Ensure Use and Reporting of Missing Hearing Aids
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a resident with a history of hearing loss consistently wore hearing aids as recommended and did not properly report or document the loss of a hearing aid. The resident, who had diagnoses including atrial fibrillation, COPD, heart failure, and hearing loss, was assessed by audiology and prescribed bilateral hearing aids to be worn daily with staff assistance. Despite these recommendations, observations revealed that the resident was not wearing the hearing aids, had difficulty understanding conversations, and reported that one hearing aid was missing. Staff interviews confirmed that the hearing aid had been missing for some time, but there was no evidence that this was reported to the appropriate personnel or documented in the facility's missing items log. Further review of the resident's care plan and medical records showed no documentation of refusal to wear the hearing aids or any indication that the aids were being used daily as directed. The social services director was unaware of the missing hearing aid and had not included it in the concern log. Additionally, the facility had not contacted the audiology provider regarding the missing device. These actions and omissions resulted in the resident not receiving the necessary assistance with hearing, as outlined in their care plan and audiology recommendations.