Call Lights Not Accessible to Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that call lights were within reach for two residents, resulting in the call lights being found on the floor and tucked in bedside drawers, out of the residents' reach. One resident, who had no cognitive impairment and diagnoses including congestive heart failure, diabetes mellitus, and adult failure to thrive, was observed lying in bed without access to a call light, which was on the floor. The resident stated he could not get a hold of staff when the call light was not accessible. Another resident, with severe cognitive impairment, dementia, bipolar disorder, and muscle weakness, was observed hitting the wall to get staff attention because her call light was out of reach. She stated it was difficult to get staff's attention without the call light. Staff interviews confirmed that call lights are expected to be within residents' reach and that failure to do so could prevent residents from calling for help. The Director of Nursing also stated that staff are expected to ensure call lights are accessible and acknowledged the risk to residents if they are unable to reach their call lights. Review of facility policy confirmed the requirement for staff to keep call lights within reach of residents while in bed.