Failure to Promptly Respond to Resident Call Light
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a resident with a history of falls, limited mobility, and intact cognitive skills activated their call light, but the request for assistance was not answered promptly. The resident, who required moderate to maximum assistance for daily activities and ambulation, was observed with their call light on while a respiratory therapist was nearby but did not respond. The respiratory therapist was seen using a cellphone and stated during an interview that he did not hear the call light and acknowledged he should have answered it. The resident later reported being unable to locate their water pitcher and oral hygiene items. Interviews with facility staff, including a licensed vocational nurse and the administrator, confirmed that all staff, including respiratory therapists, are required to answer call lights and that delays can result in unmet resident needs. Review of facility policies indicated that staff are expected to answer call lights promptly and limit personal cellphone use during work hours. The failure to respond to the call light was inconsistent with these policies and resulted in a delay in addressing the resident's needs.