Call Light Accessibility Not Ensured for Resident Requiring Assistance
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that the call light was within reach for a resident who required physical assistance for self-care needs. According to the facility's policy, staff are required to ensure that the call light is accessible to residents during every interaction in the resident's room. However, during multiple observations and interviews, it was found that the call light for this resident was not accessible. Specifically, the call light cord was wedged between the bedrail and the bottom of the mattress, with the bulb hanging close to the floor and out of the resident's reach. Photographic evidence was obtained during these observations. The resident, who was cognitively intact as indicated by a BIMS score of 14, reported on several occasions that he could not reach the call light when he needed assistance, including when he needed help to get changed. Staff confirmed the call light was not accessible and had to adjust the bed to retrieve the call bell cord. These findings were based on policy review, observation, interview, and record review.