What To Consider When A Relative Is At A Skilled Nursing Facility

Skilled Nursing Facility

The coronavirus epidemic has been disproportionately impacting Americans who live and work in long-term care (LTC) facilities. The LTC population has accounted for around one-quarter of coronavirus-related deaths in the United States of America. When you have a parent, spouse, sibling or another family member at a skilled nursing facility, here are some questions to think about asking the facility. Remember that this is only a sample list of considerations, meaning there are more things to contemplate.

The COVID-19 Vaccination Status

Determine how many staffers and residents have got full vaccination and booster shots. If the vaccinated people count is low, ask the facility about what it does to educate its residents and staffers about the safety and effectiveness of coronavirus vaccines. It is perhaps that the facility finds it tricky to access or administer vaccines when they demand these products.

Whether It Can Respond Fast Enough To Stop Further Transmission

It is not a crime to have a coronavirus case at a nursing home. That said, the facility should have staff dedicated to planning and handling its infection control measures. It should be capable of implementing the right protocols to stop or control further coronavirus spread. The CMS requires the facility to do a specific form of investigation after the identification of a COVID-19-positive case.

How It Helps Residents To Stay Connected With Family

Several modern LTC facilities have pieces of technology that enable virtual communication between residents and their loved ones. Now, what is just as important as having those products is to have people to help residents with using them.

Whether It Has Enough Masks, Sanitizers, Gloves, Gowns, And Other PPE Types

These pieces of personal protective equipment are a must at most healthcare facilities. If your loved one’s facility does not have them, determine what its plan to get more PPE types is and which safety measures do it implement meanwhile. Find out whether it trains its visitors, residents and staffers about how to use PPE properly.

Whether It Has Maximum Staffers ForAll Essential Positions

If that SNF location does not have enough aides, nurses, and other staffers, how would it meet the care requirements of residents? People who reside in these facilities have needs such as bathing, medication, social engagement, exercise, and so forth. Not meeting any of those needs signals a case of gross inefficiency.