Failure to Ensure Call Lights Within Reach for Dependent Residents
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified that the facility failed to ensure call lights were within reach for two residents who required staff assistance for activities of daily living. For one resident with functional quadriplegia, hemiplegia, and a feeding tube, the call light was observed on the floor, out of reach, while the resident was in bed and requested assistance for repositioning due to discomfort. The resident confirmed inability to access the call light, and a CNA verified its placement on the floor. For another resident with cerebrovascular disease, dementia, and moderate cognitive impairment, the call light was found wrapped around the right-side bed rail, making it inaccessible while the resident was lying in bed with a constricted left arm. The resident stated he could not reach the call light, and a housekeeper confirmed its inaccessibility. Facility policy requires that each resident be provided with a means to call staff directly for assistance from their bed, toileting, bathing facilities, and from the floor.