Failure to Ensure Call Light Accessibility for Resident
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a resident with diagnoses including dementia, cervical disc disorder with myelopathy, muscle weakness, and difficulty walking was repeatedly observed without access to a call light. Over several days, the resident was found resting in bed with the call light either out of reach, on the floor behind or under the bed, or not visible at all. The resident was unable to locate or use the call light and stated she did not have one available for use. Interviews with staff, including a unit manager and a certified nurse aide, confirmed that call lights should be accessible and either pinned to the resident or placed nearby. Both staff members verified the call light was out of reach when they entered the resident's room. The administrator also confirmed that call lights should always be within reach of residents. It was further revealed that the facility did not have a policy regarding accommodation of needs or call light accessibility for residents.