Failure to Ensure Call Light Accessibility for Resident
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a resident's call light was within reach, limiting the resident's ability to request assistance as needed over a period of two out of three survey days. Multiple observations showed the call light cord hanging from the wall by the foot of the bed and lying on the floor, making it inaccessible to the resident. The resident reported being unable to reach the call light and stated that staff did not place it within her reach. These observations were consistent across several times and dates, with the call light remaining out of reach for extended periods, including overnight. Staff interviews confirmed that the call light was not accessible and acknowledged that it should have been placed within the resident's reach. The facility's policy requires that call lights be accessible to residents at all times. The resident involved was cognitively intact, as indicated by a BIMS score of 15, and had diagnoses including osteoarthritis, anxiety disorder, and convulsions. The deficiency was corroborated by both staff and administrative personnel, who confirmed the expectation that call lights be accessible for resident safety and care.