Call Light Not Accessible to Dependent Resident
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a resident with multiple medical conditions, including right side sciatica, COPD, spinal stenosis, idiopathic aseptic necrosis of the right femur, cord compression, unsteadiness on feet, left wrist drop, and lack of coordination, did not have their call light within reach while in bed. The resident was dependent on staff for toileting, bathing, dressing, personal hygiene, and transferring, and was assessed as being at risk for falls due to poor balance and unsteady gait. The care plan specifically required that the call light be kept within the resident's reach and that staff respond promptly to calls for assistance. During an observation and interview, the call light was found hanging behind the head of the resident's bed, out of the resident's reach. Both the CNA and the DON confirmed that the resident would not be able to call for help or assistance if the call light was not accessible. Review of the facility's policy indicated that call lights should be accessible to residents when in bed, on the toilet, in the shower or bathing facility, and from the floor. This failure to ensure the call light was within reach constituted a deficiency in meeting the resident's needs as outlined in their care plan and facility policy.