Failure to Provide Proper Vision Services and Assistive Devices
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a resident with a history of Alzheimer's disease, stroke, and depression was not provided with proper treatment and assistive devices to maintain visual ability. The resident, who previously had glasses, reported being unable to read the lunch menu and stated he had not had glasses for a long time. Clinical records showed that the resident had been evaluated for cataracts in both eyes, with recommendations for new glasses pending insurance approval and a referral for cataract surgery. However, subsequent documentation indicated that the resident did not receive cataract surgery, did not have glasses, and had a cancelled optometry visit. Staff interviews confirmed that the resident had not received glasses or cataract surgery, and the facility failed to ensure the resident received necessary visual aids as outlined in their own policy. The deficiency was substantiated by the lack of follow-through on recommendations for corrective lenses and surgical intervention, as well as the resident's ongoing inability to access visual information independently.