Call Light Not Accessible to Resident in Bed
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a resident with diagnoses including dysphagia and schizophrenia, and documented impaired cognition, was observed in bed without their call light within reach. The call light was found on the floor, making it inaccessible to the resident. The resident's Minimum Data Set indicated a need for supervision with activities of daily living, highlighting the importance of having the call light accessible for requesting assistance. During the observation, a Certified Nurse Assistant confirmed that the call light should be placed behind the pillow to ensure it is within reach. The Administrator in Training also acknowledged that the call light is the primary means for residents to request help and should always be accessible. Facility policy reviewed stated that the call light must be within easy reach when a resident is in bed or confined to a chair. The failure to ensure the call light was accessible constituted a deficiency in accommodating the resident's needs and preferences.