Call Light Not Accessible to Resident
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a resident's call light was found tangled with a red string by the wall, near the foot of the bed, and not within the resident's reach. During observation and interview, the resident confirmed that the call light was too far away to be used when assistance was needed. Unlicensed staff verified the call light's position and acknowledged that it should have been clipped to the resident's clothing or pillowcase to ensure accessibility, as per facility policy. Further interviews with a licensed nurse and the Director of Nursing confirmed that the facility's policy requires call lights to be within reach of residents at all times. Review of the facility's policy and procedure also indicated that call lights must be placed within reach. The deficiency was based on direct observation, staff interviews, and review of facility policy, all confirming that the call light was not accessible to the resident as required.