Call Light Not Accessible to Resident with Mobility Impairment
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a resident with multiple sclerosis, moderate cognitive impairment, and dependence on staff for self-care and bed mobility was found to have a call light that was not within reach while lying in bed. The resident's care plan specifically indicated that the call light should be placed within reach due to her risk for falls and self-injury related to impaired balance, limited mobility, and generalized weakness. During an observation, the call light was seen hanging from the side of the bed, out of the resident's reach. This finding was confirmed by both a Certified Nursing Assistant and a Licensed Nurse, who acknowledged that the call light was not accessible and that this was not acceptable practice. The facility's policy, revised in October 2024, requires that the call light be accessible to residents when in bed. The deficiency was identified through observation, interview, and record review, and it was noted that the resident was still able to use her call light despite episodes of confusion.