Call Device Not Accessible to Resident
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a resident's call device was not placed within reach, contrary to the facility's policy requiring that each resident have access to a functional call system at all times. During an observation, the resident was found lying in bed with the call bell cord wrapped around the right upper half bed rail, with the pendant dangling below the rail and not accessible to the resident. The resident's left hand was free, but the call device was not within reach, and this was confirmed by an LPN during the observation. The resident involved had been readmitted to the facility and was on hospice care for congestive heart failure. Assessment records indicated the resident was cognitively intact and required partial to moderate assistance with eating and activities of daily living. The care plan documented the need for limited assistance with ADLs due to debility. The facility's policy specifically states that cords are to be placed easily in reach of the resident, and if a resident cannot use the call system, an alternative must be provided and documented. However, in this instance, the call device was not accessible, resulting in noncompliance with the policy.