F0685

D

Failure to Provide Timely Audiology Services for Resident With Hearing Deficit

Perrysburg, Ohio Survey Completed on 02-17-2026

Penalty

No penalty information released

Summary

The facility failed to ensure timely access to audiology services for a hospice resident with documented hearing loss and identified hearing concerns. The resident was admitted with multiple diagnoses, including unspecified hearing loss, and an MDS showing moderate difficulty hearing while remaining cognitively intact. Her care plan included interventions for a hearing deficit, such as getting her attention before speaking, facing her in good light, and minimizing background noise. An ancillary services consent form, signed several months after admission, documented a request for an audiological consultation due to a new hearing deficit and decreased responsiveness. The hospice agreement sample indicated that the facility was responsible for providing facility services at the same level of care as before hospice election and in compliance with applicable regulations.

Despite the documented need and consent for audiology services, the resident was not seen by an audiologist during her stay up to the time of the survey. Observation showed she could not hear an introduction from the foot of the bed, appeared frustrated, and stated she could not hear unless someone came very close and spoke loudly. She reported she did not have hearing aids, had not seen anyone about her ears since admission, and knew she needed her ears checked before getting help for her hearing. The Administrator, DON, and LSW confirmed the resident had not been seen by an audiologist, explaining she was not placed on the list when first admitted, was omitted from the March audiology schedule after signing consent, and that there were subsequent issues with the provider not having an audiologist in the area while the facility transitioned to a new provider.