Failure to Ensure Accessible and Functional Call Light for Resident
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a resident with muscle weakness and hypertension, who was cognitively intact, was repeatedly observed in bed with the call light placed on the floor and out of reach during multiple observations. The resident's medical record indicated recent admission and a mental status score confirming cognitive intactness. Despite being in bed, the resident did not have access to the call light, as it was not positioned within reach on several occasions. Further observation revealed that when the call light was eventually placed within the resident's reach, it was not functioning properly. Pressing the call light did not activate any light or noise outside the room or at the nurses' station, indicating a malfunction. A CNA confirmed during an interview that the call light was not working correctly and acknowledged that it should be both functional and accessible to residents.