Failure to Ensure Pull Cords for Bedside Lights Were Within Reach
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to reasonably accommodate the needs and preferences of two residents by not ensuring that the pull cords for the lights above their beds were within reach. Both residents had moderate cognitive impairment but no impairment of their upper extremities, and each expressed a desire to use the pull cord to control their lights. Observations revealed that the beds were positioned so that the pull cords hung against the wall and were not accessible to the residents while in bed. One resident stated she wanted to use the pull cord but could not reach it and was unsure when she last used it, while the other also reported being unable to reach her pull cord despite wanting to use it. Interviews with facility staff indicated that maintenance issues were tracked through a computer system, which the Maintenance Director reviewed daily. The Maintenance Director acknowledged that the pull cord for one resident was not within reach and was unaware of the issue for the other resident. The Corporate Nurse Consultant agreed that the pull cords should be accessible to residents who are able and wish to use them. The deficiency was identified through observations, record reviews, and interviews with residents and staff.