Monday, December 18, 2006

Quality Of Life And Care In A Nursing Home

Reports of abuse and neglect in nursing homes have been prevalent in our newspapers and magazines and other media for years now. Perhaps in your very own neighborhood.

Perhaps you have heard some of these stories. You may even have a loved one who has been afforded inferior care in a nursing home. It is time to take action and become aware of the surroundings your loved one may be living in.

I was a CNA in a local nursing home, as well as a housekeeper, and have seen first hand the types of abuse and neglect that can occur when a home is understaffed and over worked. Do not put up with inferior nursing care... Our elderly deserve caring, quality care. After all, this is the home they will reside in until the day they depart this earth.

Someresidents are aware of their poor care and the pain, discomfort and inconvenience caused by it. Others are not. But whether the individual is aware or not, their loved ones usually are, and the pain and emotional suffering borne by loved ones may be as great as that suffered by the injured resident.

Visiting often, paying close attention to your loved ones comments or reluctance to certain staff is important, as well as paying close attention to the staff is vital to your loved ones piece of mind and comfort. residents who often complain just may have a valid reason for that complaint, but often times go unnoticed for one reason or another.

Know about chemical restraints and the uses. Know about physical restraints and the uses. Know problem identification and resolution. Your loved one has the right to a peacful excistence, and you have rights too.