Aways assess a resident’s mental status before asking about restraints. The resident may feel restless, but still be able to be redirected to another activity. Restraint orders are only used when residents are a threat to themselves or others.
Normal aging is a gradual process that is different for each individual. Body functions slow, but most people stay healthy. About 90% live alone. Less than 5% of elderly people live in nursing homes. Similarly, about 5% have dementia.
Restraints can be useful for preventive reasons, such as keeping a patient from falling from a bed or wheelchair and to keep lines and tubes intact. Many surgical and intensive care units use restraints in this manner. Restraints may also be used for behavior issues, such as possible physical harm to themselves or others.
Humans can remain sexual throughout their lives. If residents are mentally competent, they can decide to seek intimacy. Residents have a right to express their sexuality as long as it is not public and does not harm the resident or others. Assure privacy for residents and avoid commenting to co-workers. Always treat residents with respect and dignity.
Residents have the right to share a room with their spouse, even if they have different needs. Their room is considered private, and staff must knock before entering. The spouse who needs the most care can determine the type of facility where the couple lives. Studies have shown that when couples are able to remain together, they experience overall greater health and happiness.
While every resident has rights that apply to their care and privacy, they do not have the right to complete freedom in regard to their surroundings and other residents. Their rights are personal and physical, pertaining only to their own care.
Physical privacy is the right to do something without having someone witness. This includes personal functions, such as toileting or grooming. The nurse aide can be an advocate for residents to help them meet their needs. For example, If a resident needs to use the bedpan, the nurse aide should ask visitors to leave the room so the resident can use the bedpan and get cleaned up. The nurse aide can inform the visitors when they can return.
While every resident has rights that apply to their care and privacy, they do not have the right to complete freedom in regard to their surroundings and other residents. Their rights are personal and physical, pertaining only to their own care.
Residents have the right to be informed about their medical status, to choose their doctor, and make decisions about their care. They may refuse treatment and medication. These rights have been in place since 1987 when the Nursing Home Reform Law was put into place.
The nurse aide cannot provide any medical information with the client’s family or friends, and should direct them to the nurse. The nurse can verify if the family member is on a list approved by the client. The nurse can also provide information if the family member is involved in the care or paying for it. If not, the nurse will explain the HIPAA Privacy Rule.
According to Medicare, residents have the right to make decisions regarding their schedule, including when to eat meals. Remember that for residents, the facility is their home now. They are able to choose their own schedule and activities. The nurse aide should check the diet orders, then bring a snack to the resident.
Every resident has the right to make decisions regarding their care, including refusing care. They also have the right to make choices. Don’t force a new resident to wear a clothing protector. The resident may still be adjusting to their new environment or may feel embarrassed to put on “a bib.” Allow the resident to settle in and become familiar with the facility.
Humans can remain sexual throughout their lives. They also can enjoy intimacy and touch at any age. Sexual expression may change as people age, but does not end. Residents have a right to express their sexuality as long as it is not public and does not harm the resident or others. Assure privacy for residents and avoid commenting to co-workers. Always treat residents with respect and dignity.
Every health care facility has a procedure for handling client grievances. If the issue cannot be resolved, it moves to the next level of authority. For example, a if a client tells the nurse aide about a grievance, the nurse aide should notify the charge nurse. The charge nurse will attempt to resolve the issue before calling the Nursing or Administrative Supervisor. At the top of the chain are the Chief Medical Officer and the Hospital Administrator. Each level has increasing authority and responsibility to address the situation. The facility must address the issue promptly.
Humans can remain sexual throughout their lives. They also can enjoy intimacy and touch at any age. Sexual expression may change as people age, but does not end. Residents have a right to express their sexuality as long as it is not public and does not harm the resident or others. Assure privacy for residents and avoid commenting to co-workers. Always treat residents with respect and dignity.
Studies show that 90% of people want to get older “in place,” near their families. Home care offers many benefits for both the elderly and their families. The decision to place a family member in a facility is difficult and often happens when there are no other options.
