Non-Functioning Call Light System in Shower and Bathing Areas
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a functioning call system was available in each resident's bathroom and bathing area, as required. Observations revealed that in the 200 and north 300-hall shower rooms, at least one call light was not operational, and there were no cords attached to the call lights in the 100, 200, and north 300-hall shower rooms. Multiple residents and staff confirmed that the call lights either did not work or were missing cords, making it impossible for residents to call for assistance if needed. In one instance, a resident reported concern about being unable to summon help if she became stuck in the shower. Another resident stated that the call light in the 200-hall shower room had not worked since repairs were made, and staff had to remain present during his showers due to the non-functioning system. Further observations showed that in some shower rooms, the call light switches were present but lacked cords, and in at least one case, activating the call light did not result in any visible signal in the hallway. Staff interviews confirmed awareness of the issue, with maintenance staff noting that cords should be long enough to reach residents on the floor, and CNAs describing the need to check on residents frequently due to the lack of a working call system. The facility administrator acknowledged that the call light system was old and prone to frequent bulb outages, and that audits of the system had only recently begun.