Call Light Not Kept Within Reach for High-Risk Resident
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when staff failed to ensure that a resident's call light was within reach, as required by the facility's policy and the resident's care plan. The resident, who had diagnoses including dementia, a history of falls, and muscle wasting, was assessed as being at high risk for falls and required varying levels of assistance with daily activities. The care plan specifically indicated that the call light should be attached and within reach, and the facility's policy also required the call light to be accessible to residents. During an observation, the resident's call light was found on the floor, out of reach, while the resident was attempting to indicate a need for a brief change. Staff interviews confirmed that the call light should not have been on the floor and that the resident knew how to use it to request assistance. The failure to keep the call light within reach meant the resident was unable to call for help when needed, contrary to both the care plan and facility policy.