Failure to Assist Resident After Call Light Activation
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a certified nurse aide (CNA) failed to assist a resident who requested help transferring from bed to wheelchair. During observation, the resident, who has diagnoses including primary osteoarthritis of the ankles, feet, and hips, muscle weakness, and difficulty walking, pressed the call light for assistance. The CNA entered the room, turned off the call light, and left without providing any help. The CNA later confirmed in an interview that no assistance was given at that time. Interviews with facility staff, including the case manager and the director of nursing, confirmed that staff are expected to ask residents if they need help before turning off the call light and to address residents' needs whenever the call light is activated. Review of the facility's policy on answering call lights also indicated that staff should respond immediately and fulfill requests within five minutes if possible. The resident's medical record and assessment showed she was cognitively intact but physically limited, further emphasizing her need for assistance.