A Question of Morals?

Here is my delimma.

I work as a CNA in a nursing facility in the dementia unit. No one puts the residents call lights on their beds. I do.

I feel that even though some of the residents may be confused, they still have the right to be treated with respect, and part of that respect is having a call light handy.

I don't lay it across the bed, I either tie it to the rail or clip it to the bedframe.

I understand the reasoning behind not having them (they say the residents may be strangled by the cord), but I still disagree!

Can someone enlighten me with a reasoning behind this practice, if there is one?

Thanks, Julie:(

[RNforLongTime]

When I worked as a CNA in PA, it was a State Law that the call bell had to be within a residents reach at all times. I find it shameful that a person could not summon help if needed.

[jschut, BSN, RN]

That's what I thought too.....

Julie:o

[meownsmile, BSN, RN]

Definately law in my state too.

You keep hanging that call light on the bedrail, and explaining what it is and why its there to the patient. Who knows they just might remember if it will get a nice caring nurse in there.

[clintn91180]

I have to agree with the others, I mean if they can't get help what is the point of them being there?