Non-Functioning Doorbell Delays Resident Re-Entry
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that one of three doorbells, specifically at hallway 2's entrance, was functioning properly. This deficiency was identified when a resident, who had diagnoses including hypertension and congestive heart failure and was cognitively intact, returned from an appointment and attempted to use the doorbell to gain entry. The doorbell did not work, resulting in the resident having to knock several times and wait several minutes outside before staff heard and let her in. The resident expressed frustration about the wait and the non-functioning doorbell. Multiple staff members, including an LVN, the Registered Nurse Supervisor, the Maintenance Director, and the Director of Nursing, confirmed through observation and interviews that the doorbell was not working and acknowledged its importance for resident access. The Maintenance Director was unaware of the doorbell's existence prior to the incident. Review of facility policy indicated that the maintenance department is responsible for keeping equipment in safe and operable condition at all times.