Dignifying America's Nursing Homes
CMS and the Pioneer Network held a national symposium back in April 2008 on "Creating Home". As a result, changes have been made to the interpretive guidelines and changes to regulations may follow.
F241 Dignity - Nursing homes still have many undignified practices and old habits can be hard to break. CMS examples regarding this include:
Eliminating the use of bibs which we have all been trained to refer to as clothing protectors. Infants use bibs not adults. The dignified approach is to use and offer cloth napkins instead.
Having staff sit rather than stand when helping residents to eat. A move toward family dining is dignified were staff eat with the residents. This is much more home- like and non-threatening. Conversation should be directed at those dining not yelling across the room to co-workers. Staff interact and converse with their residents not each other.
Speak to residents respectfully; avoiding use of lables such as "feedes" the "new admit" or the "wanderers:".
How undignified to refuse a resident's request for toileting assistance during mealtimes and then restricting them from use of common areas open to the public such as lobbies and restrooms. It is dehumanizing to restrict residents from using restrooms, closer to where they dine, which are open to the public.
Think about what is dignified for us. It is no different for the elders we serve. If we would not want it neither would they.
If you need help with culture change, Ecumen Consulting can lead you through a successful transition.
0 Comments
Name and email are required. We promise not to share your email address with anyone.