HospitalInspections.org

Based on observation and interview, it was determined that the Registered Nurse failed to supervise and evaluate call light availability and response to call lights for 3 (#2, #3, #5) of 5 sampled patients. This practice does not ensure patient needs are met.
Findings include:
1. Observation of patient #2 in the Intensive Care Unit on 10/29/10 at 10:10 a.m. revealed a nurse at the bedside pulled the call light from the back of the bed and placed the call light at bedside. At approximately 11:00 a.m. a family member was interviewed regarding the call light at bedside. The family member stated they did not know anything about the call light or what it was.

2. Observation on 10/29/10 at 1:45 p.m. in room 231 revealed that the call light was on a supply cart in the patient's room situated on the left side of the bed out of the patient's reach. The patient's family member who was in the room verified that the call light was out of reach for the patient.

3. An interview with patient #5 was conducted on the medical surgical unit on 10/29/10 at 11:30 a.m. The patient was identified as alert and orientated. The patient stated that when the call light is activated the staff rarely responds.