Failure to Ensure Accessible and Timely Call Light Response
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that call lights were accessible and answered in a timely manner for 19 of 21 residents, as required by facility policy. Observations revealed that in at least two cases, call light cords in resident bathrooms were wrapped around grab bars, making them inoperable. Interviews with residents confirmed that some rarely used the call light, but had it available at their bedside and in the bathroom, although the bathroom call light was not functional. Staff, including an LPN, confirmed the inoperability of these call lights for the affected residents. Additionally, a group interview with residents revealed that the majority consistently experienced wait times of thirty minutes or longer for call light responses, leading to frustration. Review of six months of resident council meeting minutes showed ongoing complaints about untimely call light responses, with issues reported every month during the review period. The DON confirmed the facility's failure to ensure call lights were both accessible and answered promptly for the majority of residents identified.