Failure to Ensure Call Lights Within Reach for Two Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that two residents had their call light devices within reach while in bed, as required by facility policy. During observations, both residents were found with their call lights on the floor and unable to access them. Interviews with the residents confirmed they could not reach the call lights. Both residents had medical histories including dementia, muscle weakness, and difficulty walking, with one resident having a moderate cognitive impairment and a history of falls. Both residents used wheelchairs and required assistance with personal care. Staff interviews revealed that LVNs were aware that call lights should be within reach and stated that they routinely check to ensure this. However, during the survey, the call lights were not accessible to the residents. The facility's policy specifies that call lights should be placed within easy reach of residents and that specific types of call lights should be added to the care plan based on residents' abilities and limitations. Despite these guidelines, the deficiency was observed and confirmed by staff.