Failure to Replace Lost Hearing Aid and Arrange Audiology Services
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide adequate hearing services for one resident who was admitted with multiple diagnoses, including a left femur fracture, anemia, and anxiety. The resident was cognitively intact, as indicated by a BIMS score of 13 out of 15, and required substantial to maximal assistance with daily tasks. Shortly after admission, the resident's hearing aid was lost, and the resident was observed wearing an old, non-functional hearing aid. The resident reported the missing hearing aid during a Resident Council Meeting, and the issue was confirmed by the resident's daughter, who stated that a grievance had been filed but no follow-up or replacement was provided. A review of the resident's medical record showed a physician's order for an audiology consult as needed, but there was no documentation that the resident had been seen by an audiologist. Interviews with facility staff indicated that the social worker, DON, and unit manager were responsible for arranging audiology services and obtaining a replacement hearing aid, but these actions were not completed. The administrator confirmed that the expectation was for the resident to be seen by an audiologist and provided with a replacement hearing aid, which had not occurred.