Call Bell Not Maintained Within Resident Reach
Penalty
Summary
Facility staff failed to maintain a call bell in a position accessible to a resident who was cognitively intact and had no upper extremity limitations. The resident was dependent on staff for toileting hygiene and required substantial to maximal assistance for transfers. During multiple observations, the call bell was found wrapped around the lower portion of the right upper bed rail, out of the resident's reach. When asked, the resident was unable to locate or access the call bell and stated he did not know where it was, although he typically used it to request assistance from staff. Staff interviews confirmed that call bells should be placed within easy reach of all residents, and that staff are expected to check call bell placement before leaving the room and when passing by. Facility policy also requires that the call light be within easy reach when a resident is in bed or confined to a chair. Despite these policies and staff awareness, the call bell was not accessible to the resident during the survey observations.