Delayed Call Light Response for Dependent Resident
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to accommodate a resident's needs by not ensuring timely response to call lights. During an interview, a resident reported having to wait up to 40 minutes after using the call light to be changed following a bowel movement. The resident, who is cognitively intact and fully dependent on staff for toileting hygiene, also reported a history of urinary tract infections since admission. Review of the resident's Minimum Data Set confirmed her dependence for toileting hygiene. A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) stated that she is sometimes responsible for up to 17 residents during her shift and may be delayed in responding to call lights when attending to other residents. The facility's policy requires nursing staff to answer call bells promptly and courteously. However, the observed delays in responding to the resident's call light requests indicate that this policy was not consistently followed.