Failure to Ensure Call Light Accessibility for Resident
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a resident with moderate cognitive impairment and multiple medical conditions, including memory deficit, osteoporosis, macular degeneration, and diabetes, did not have reasonable accommodation for their needs regarding call light accessibility. The resident's care plan specified that the call light should be kept within reach and that the resident should be reminded to use it and wait for assistance. However, during observation, the call light was found attached to the back of a recliner and not accessible from the resident's bed, which was approximately eight feet away. The call light cord was not long enough to reach the bed, and the resident confirmed that it could not be used from the bed and that she typically went to the hallway or nurse's station for assistance instead of using the call light. Interviews with staff revealed that the CNA was unsure if the call light was accessible to the resident while in bed and demonstrated that the cord did not reach the bed. The DON stated that all residents should have the call light within reach and that longer cords are available if needed, but was unaware of the issue in this case and confirmed that it had not been assessed or care planned. The lack of assessment and failure to ensure the call light was accessible to the resident in all areas of the room led to the deficiency.