Failure to Provide Accessible Light Switches for Dependent Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that two dependent residents had access to the light switch cords for the overhead lights in their rooms. Both residents were cognitively intact but unable to ambulate or stand, and had resided in their respective rooms for an extended period. Observations revealed that the light switch cords were either too short or broken, making them inaccessible from the residents' beds. Despite repeated observations over several days, the cords remained unrepaired and out of reach for both residents. Interviews with the residents confirmed that they had never been able to reach the light cords and had to rely on nursing staff to control the overhead lights. This lack of access was inconvenient for the residents, as one needed the light to use her computer and the other to read and do word puzzles. Both expressed a desire for the cords to be fixed so they could independently control their room lighting. Staff interviews indicated a lack of awareness and reporting regarding the broken or inaccessible cords. Nurse aides acknowledged the issue when it was pointed out but had not previously reported it to maintenance. The maintenance supervisor stated he depended on staff to submit work orders for repairs and was unaware of the problem. Facility leadership, including the DON and Administrator, stated they expected staff to report such issues promptly to ensure residents' needs were accommodated, but were not aware of the specific deficiencies until the time of the survey.