Failure to Ensure Call Bell Accessibility for Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to accommodate the call bell needs for two residents, as required by its own policy and state regulations. For one resident with diagnoses including high blood pressure, dementia, and a need for assistance with personal care, the call bell was observed hanging from the wall unit at the head of the bed, out of the resident's reach. This was confirmed by an LPN, who acknowledged that the call bell was not accessible or available for the resident's use. A second resident, who had diagnoses of anemia, hemiplegia, and muscle weakness, was observed with their call bell on the floor, also out of reach. This was similarly confirmed by the same LPN, who stated that the call bell was not accessible or available for use. These findings demonstrate that the facility did not ensure that call bells or alternative communication devices were within reach for residents when unattended, as required by facility policy.