Failure to Ensure Call Light Accessibility for Resident
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when the facility failed to ensure that a resident's call light was within reach while the resident was in bed. Observations showed that the call light was on the floor near the nightstand, and the resident, who was lying on her right side facing the window, was unable to reach it. The resident confirmed during an interview that she could not access the call light. The resident's care plan specifically required that the call light be within reach and that she be encouraged to use it for assistance as needed. The resident had moderately impaired cognition, required moderate assistance with transfers, and was at risk for falls due to limited mobility and weakness. Multiple staff interviews, including with CNAs, an LVN, the ADON, and the DON, confirmed that the call light should always be within reach of the resident, as per facility policy and in-service education. Staff acknowledged that failure to provide access to the call light could result in the resident attempting to assist herself, potentially leading to falls. The facility's policy also stated that the call light must be within easy reach when a resident is in bed or confined to a chair. Despite these guidelines and staff awareness, the call light was not accessible to the resident at the time of observation.