We’re breaking down the Requirements of Participation Phase 2 updates and Phase 3 new guidance.
Look for an update each week through October.
We’ll focus on an F-tag(s) to help you understand the newest guidance.
F919-Resident Call System
Today we’re focusing on §483.90-Physical Environment –F919-Resident Call System.
What’s new: CMS made changes to the regulation §483.90(g)(1)‐(2) Resident Call System.
A facility must be adequately equipped to allow residents to call for staff assistance through a communication system.
The system must relay the call directly to a staff member or to a centralized staff work area from each resident’s bedside, toilet, and bathing facilities.
The guidance says call systems must be accessible to residents:
while in their bed or other sleeping accommodations within the resident’s room;
at each toilet, bath, or shower; and
lying on the floor.
Action for Facilities
Develop a process to routinely check that the call system is operational.
Review the process to make sure that during a power loss, the system will work or that there is another means of communicating with the staff.
Examine the functionality of the call system to ensure it is accessible to a resident lying on the floor.
