Call Bell Not Maintained Within Reach for Cognitively Impaired Resident
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain the call device within reach for one resident with significant cognitive impairment. Record review showed the resident was admitted with diagnoses including Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Emphysema, and had a BIMS score of 00, indicating significant cognitive impairment. During multiple observations over several days, the call bell was found on the floor beneath the resident's bed and not within her reach. In an interview, the resident demonstrated understanding of the call bell's purpose and reported having used it before. She was also able to communicate her preferences and operate the bed controls independently. However, the repeated observations confirmed that the call device was not accessible to her during the survey period.