Failure to Ensure Timely Call Light Response and Resident Dignity
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure resident dignity by not providing timely responses to call lights for at least two residents who were dependent on staff for activities of daily living. One resident with mild cognitive impairment, multiple chronic conditions, and a history of incontinence reported that delayed call light responses led to episodes of incontinence and feelings of embarrassment. This resident described waiting up to 45 minutes for assistance during a health scare and noted that staff were often too busy to respond promptly, especially before lunch. Another resident, who was alert and dependent on staff due to respiratory failure and other serious health issues, also reported having to wait for extended periods, sometimes resorting to calling out in the hallway for help. Resident Council meeting notes and group interviews further corroborated these findings, with multiple residents expressing concerns about long call light wait times. Several residents reported experiencing incontinence while waiting for assistance, and some stated that nurses did not consistently help with answering call lights. The facility's own policy affirms residents' rights to timely assistance, but documentation and resident feedback indicated ongoing issues with delayed responses, particularly during busy periods and before meals.