Failure to Provide Working Call Light System or Alternatives in Resident Rooms
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a functioning call light system or alternative means of summoning assistance was available in the bathrooms and bathing areas for six residents. During an inspection, it was observed that one resident's private room did not have a call light cord plugged into the outlet, nor was there a desk bell or any other device to notify staff if assistance was needed. Staff members, including a CNA and an LPN, were unable to locate a call light or bell in the room. The nurse unit manager confirmed that some call lights were not functioning and that desk bells were supposed to be provided as a temporary measure, but acknowledged that this resident did not have one. Further inspection revealed that five additional residents also lacked call lights or any alternative means to alert staff in their rooms. At the time of observation, these residents were not in their rooms and did not report concerns about the missing call lights or bells. The Nursing Home Administrator stated that the facility was in the process of repairing the call light system and that all affected residents should have had a desk bell or similar device, but was unable to provide a list of malfunctioning call lights and confirmed there was no policy in place for call lights.