Failure to Provide and Replace Hearing Assistive Devices for a Resident with Hearing Impairment
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a resident with a history of dementia, cognitive communication deficit, and hearing impairment did not receive proper treatment and assistive devices for hearing. The resident's care plan and physician orders indicated the need for hearing aids, and staff were instructed to ensure hearing aids were in place and stored appropriately. However, observations over multiple days revealed that the resident was not wearing hearing aids, and staff interviews confirmed uncertainty about the existence or location of the hearing aids. The resident was observed watching television at maximum volume and was separated from others, with staff and family members noting ongoing hearing difficulties. Record reviews showed that the resident's hearing aids had previously been lost and, at one point, sent for repair. Documentation indicated that the hearing aids were returned, but subsequent notes stated that no hearing aids were available, and the physician order for hearing aids was discontinued without explanation. Staff interviews revealed a lack of knowledge about the process for replacing or repairing assistive devices, and the facility did not have a policy or procedure for managing assistive devices for hearing, vision, or dental needs. The resident and family both expressed that the resident would benefit from having hearing aids, but no grievance was filed regarding the missing device, and the facility's grievance log only referenced a past incident. Further, the facility's system for storing and tracking hearing aids was reviewed, and it was confirmed that the resident did not have a hearing aid case or device present. The lack of a clear process for replacement or repair, combined with staff turnover and incomplete documentation, contributed to the resident not having access to necessary hearing assistive devices. The deficiency was further highlighted by the resident's continued difficulty hearing, as evidenced by the need for maximum TV volume and social isolation.