Deficiency in Resident Call System
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that call bells were within reach for five residents, leading to a deficiency in the resident call system. Resident R37, who was assessed as a fall risk, had a call bell that was out of reach and found on the floor. The Maintenance Director explained that the call bell was not broken but was improperly managed by nursing staff, causing it to fall. Similarly, Resident R115's call bell was stuck in a bedside drawer, and the call bell system was found unplugged at the nursing station, resulting in a delayed response to the resident's needs. Additionally, Residents R109 and R153, who required assistance with personal care, had call bells that were not within reach. During a Resident Council meeting, several residents reported that staff would turn off call bells without providing assistance, claiming they were not assigned to the resident. Furthermore, Resident R88 experienced a malfunctioning call bell that remained active even after assistance was provided, indicating a need for maintenance. The Maintenance Director confirmed that the call bell in room 424-B was broken and required replacement, highlighting systemic issues with the call bell system throughout the facility.
Plan Of Correction
1. Residents R-37, R-115, R-153, R-109, and R-88 have their call bells with-in their reach. 2. The facility will assess all residents to ensure that they have their call bell with-in their reach to ensure timely responses to their requests and needs. 3. Nurse Educator/Designee will re-educate all staff on the policy, "Answering Call light." 4. The DON/Designee will conduct weekly random audits times 2 months to ensure residents call bells are with-in their reach. 5. Audit results will be reviewed monthly by QAPI Committee.