A call light is a vital communication device that connects a resident to care staff, and its effectiveness is entirely dependent on its accessibility. Poorly placed or hard-to-reach call lights can lead to delayed assistance, increasing the risk of falls and other injuries, especially for those with limited mobility. To ensure safety, a strategic, multi-point approach to placement is necessary, addressing a resident's most common locations within the room.
Strategic Bedroom Placement
The bedroom is where a resident spends the most time, both sleeping and resting. Optimal call light placement here must consider all potential scenarios to prevent a resident from attempting to move independently to reach help. The goal is to make the call button effortless to access from the bed at all times.
At the Bedside
For residents who spend significant time in bed, the call light must be placed within arm's reach of their normal resting position.
- Fixed to the bed rail: For residents who are mostly bed-bound, attaching the call button directly to the bed rail is the most effective solution. This ensures the button moves with them as the bed is adjusted.
- On the bedside table: If the resident is mobile and their bed is not always in the same position, placing the button on the bedside table is a standard practice. However, staff must ensure it is placed directly within reach after each interaction.
- Wall-mounted near the head of the bed: A wall-mounted option can be useful for those who can easily reach to the side of the bed. It provides a consistent location, making it easy for the resident to remember where to find it.
Near Seating Areas
If the room includes a chair or recliner for daytime use, another call light should be accessible from that position. This prevents the resident from needing to stand or walk to reach the bedside light if an issue arises while they are seated.
Bathroom and Emergency Locations
The bathroom is a high-risk area for falls, making proper call light coverage non-negotiable. Federal regulations, such as those governed by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), mandate emergency call systems in resident toilet and bathing facilities.
Next to the Toilet
A pull cord or button should be mounted on the wall next to the toilet, extending low enough for a resident to reach it from a sitting or fallen position. State regulations, such as in Minnesota, often specify that pull cords must hang within six inches of the floor to ensure they are reachable even if a resident is on the ground.
In the Shower or Tub Area
Similar to the toilet, a waterproof call button or pull cord is essential within the bathing area. It must be placed in a location where it can be reached from a sitting or fallen position, typically mounted within the shower or next to the tub.
Entryway and General Area Placement
For additional security and compliance with some regulations, a call light may also be placed near the main entrance of the room. This is particularly useful in multi-resident rooms or for situations where a staff member might be the one initiating the alert.
Comparison of Wired vs. Wireless Systems
Choosing between a wired or wireless call light system can significantly impact installation flexibility, cost, and resident mobility. Each type has distinct advantages and disadvantages, depending on the care setting and resident needs.
| Feature | Wired Call Light System | Wireless Call Light System |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | More labor-intensive, requiring extensive wiring and potential wall modifications. | Much easier and faster to install, ideal for retrofitting existing facilities. |
| Cost | Higher initial installation costs due to labor and materials. | Lower initial setup costs, though long-term maintenance may vary. |
| Reliability | Known for robust, reliable signals with minimal interference. | Can be subject to signal interference, though modern systems are highly secure. |
| Flexibility | Less flexible for changes; reconfiguring requires rewiring. | Highly flexible; devices can be easily relocated or added. |
| Mobility | The resident is confined to the range of the corded button. | Offers greater mobility with wearable pendants, allowing residents to roam freely while remaining safe. |
| Features | Often includes fixed call buttons and dome lights. | Can include wearable pendants, mobile apps for staff, and smart-room technology. |
Special Considerations for Personalized Care
Effective call light placement is not a one-size-fits-all solution and should be tailored to the specific needs of the resident.
- Mobility Impairments: For residents with very limited mobility, specialized buttons or pads that can be activated with a light touch, breath, or proximity can be integrated into the system.
- Cognitive Issues: Clear, simple, and brightly labeled buttons are critical for residents with memory impairment. Demonstrating the use of the call light and confirming understanding is also crucial.
- High-Risk Areas: In addition to the bedroom and bathroom, consider other areas of frequent use, such as a favorite armchair or a small kitchenette, to ensure comprehensive coverage. Portable wireless pendants can address many of these needs.
Conclusion
Where should a call light be placed in a residence room is a critical safety consideration that must be addressed with careful thought and attention to individual needs. By employing a multi-point strategy that ensures accessibility from the bed, bathroom, and other key areas, facilities and caregivers can significantly improve resident safety and well-being. Whether using a reliable wired system in a new build or a flexible wireless system for added mobility, the ultimate goal is to provide residents with immediate, effortless access to help. Regularly checking the function and placement of these devices, and training residents on their use, are non-negotiable steps in maintaining a safe and secure living environment.
