From the category archives:

Quality of Care

What to Look for in Staff Training Part 4: Consumer Questions

BRING THIS QUESTIONNAIRE TO YOUR NEXT ELDERCARE FACILITY TOUR

How does the staff interact with the residents?   Is there an overall climate of respect?
Does the staff look content?   Are they rushed or irritated?
Do they address the residents by their names?   Calling an elder “honey” or “sweetie” is not acceptable, unless that is the resident’s preferred nickname.
How [...]

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What to Look For in Staff Training Part 3: The Training Differential

Why is poor training such an important issue?   Is there any evidence that effective training would improve quality of care for the residents?  A recent study reported a 70% reduction in pressure ulcers when staff were properly trained and given incentives to perform better. (1,2)  Other studies have shown a direct effect on resident care [...]

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What to Look For in Staff Training Part 2: The Plight of CNAs

The statistics do not bode well for those working in nursing homes.   The direct care workers   are usually the lowest paid workers in the healthcare industry.(1)  The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates CNA salaries ranging from $7.78 to $12.80 per hour.(2)   Unmarried minority women with at least one dependent child comprise a healthy cross-section [...]

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What to Look for in Staff Training Part 1: Importance of Preparation

It makes sense to check out the décor before sending a loved one to a long term care (LTC) facility.   Maybe even try the food in the cafeteria, check the comfort level provided in the beds, observe the cleanliness of the bathrooms, and determine whether the lighting is appropriate. Yet the most important aspect of [...]

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Introducing Contributing Writer Debra Fox

One of the more frequently asked questions I receive from families involves training of assisted living community staff.  What are the training requirements?  How to do communities train their staff?  What tools are used?  What expectations should families have regarding training?
I’d like to introduce an addition to our group of contributing writers  — a true [...]

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