Failure to Provide Audiology Consultation for Resident with Hearing Loss
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide an audiology consultation for a resident with documented hearing loss. Upon observation and interview, the resident was noted to have difficulty hearing staff even while using a left hearing aid, which was reported as not functioning properly. Multiple staff members, including a CNA, RN, Social Service Director, and DON, acknowledged the resident's ongoing hearing difficulties and the need for an audiology referral. The resident's records, including the admission record, order summary, care plan, and social service summary, all indicated hearing impairment and the need for audiology evaluation, yet no evidence was found that such a referral or evaluation was completed. The facility's policy required social services to coordinate and monitor audiology evaluations, but this process was not followed for the resident in question. The lack of action resulted in the resident continuing to experience hearing difficulties without appropriate intervention, as documented in both staff interviews and record reviews. The deficiency was identified through direct observation, interviews with staff, and review of the resident's medical and care records.