Nursing Assistant Monthly Copyright © 2013 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Resident-centered care: Welcoming the new resident January 2013

Copyright © 2013 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. January 2013 Welcoming the new resident The newcomer  New residents may have concerns about: –Having a roommate for the first time –Feeling lonely or bored –Being in unfamiliar surroundings –Depending on strangers for care  Reassure them about these normal feelings –Listen for cues about their feelings –Be a good listener

Copyright © 2013 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. January 2013 Welcoming the new resident Setting a positive tone  The resident’s first impressions can affect their entire experience. –Smile! Be friendly. It’s a routine day for you, but a big day for the resident! –Introduce yourself and other staff members Wear a name tag

Copyright © 2013 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. January 2013 Welcoming the new resident What to expect  Orient the resident to their surroundings –Call light, telephone, TV, how to get help –Routines on the unit Caregiving Mealtimes Activities

Copyright © 2013 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. January 2013 Welcoming the new resident Learning about the resident Your interest will reassure the resident  Personal care needs –Know the results of the nurse’s assessment Mobility needs Help with ADLs –Get more information from the resident/family Preferences for bathing/shower Late sleeper or early bird? Meals: favorite foods/snacks/beverages How does the resident like to spend his or her time?

Copyright © 2013 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. January 2013 Welcoming the new resident Blending into the community Every resident is unique  Help the resident to feel connected –Introduce him or her to other residents –Learn about the new resident’s interests and hobbies –Are there other residents or staff who share that interest? –Involve the family to create opportunities for socializing/hobbies  Honor preferences –Some residents may prefer more “alone time” –Suggest but never insist on involvement in activities

Copyright © 2013 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. January 2013 Welcoming the new resident Share the knowledge Other staff need to know  Communicate resident’s preferences to fellow staff –The method will depend on your facility Computerized care plan “Kardex” type system Verbally Change of shift report  Keep the nurse informed –Nurse can update the care plan as needed

Copyright © 2013 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. January 2013 Welcoming the new resident The outside world Staying connected with greater community  Residents who are able may enjoy: –Discussing world events and community news –Using a computer –Attending community events –Volunteering to read to a child, knitting for hospital nurseries –Having visits from a pet –Shopping trips (or to be assisted with online shopping)

Copyright © 2013 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. January 2013 Welcoming the new resident Tailoring your approach  The bottom line is: no two residents are alike.  Learn about the resident’s past.  Be creative in engaging the resident.  Honor preferences for solitude. –It’s fine NOT to participate in formal activities. –However, notify the nurse if lack of interest is a change for the resident. (It might signal depression.)

Copyright © 2013 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. January 2013 Welcoming the new resident Your role Helping residents to feel at home is:  a challenge,  a big responsibility, and  a great opportunity… …to make a difference in their quality of life!