Failure to Maintain Functional Resident Call Bell Systems
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that resident call bell systems were functioning properly in six resident rooms, as required by federal regulations. Observations revealed that in multiple rooms, call bell boxes were pulled out of the wall and rendered ineffective, with no illumination outside the rooms when the call bell button was pressed. In several instances, residents were not provided with an alternative means of calling for assistance, such as a tap bell, as outlined in the facility's own policy. Interviews with residents confirmed that their call bells had not worked for weeks or months, and some were given manual bells that staff did not respond to. Further review of facility documentation and interviews with staff, including the Nursing Home Administrator, indicated that there was no effective process for informing maintenance of needed repairs. Maintenance requests were communicated verbally, and only recently had staff been trained to use a computerized system for reporting issues. Grievances from residents and families also documented ongoing problems with non-functioning call bells and inadequate alternative solutions.
Plan Of Correction
Corrective actions are currently in process. Maintenance/designee will complete an initial audit on all call bell systems on each wing. Maintenance will complete random audits weekly x4 and monthly x2 to ensure the call bell system is functioning properly. Findings will be reported to the QAPI committee.