Page 8 - Demo

ASK ABOUT THE STAFFFind out if the facility has registered nurses (RNs) on duty around the clock. Once you%u2019ve completed your internet research, your next step should be to visit all of the facilities you are considering. While touring a nursing home or assisted living facility, ask yourself questions such as:%u2022 Does it smell clean?%u2022 Does it feel like a quiet and relaxing environment?%u2022 Can you find staff on the halls? - Are they helping residents, or huddled up gossiping, or outside smoking? %u2022 Are call bells being answered timely?%u2022 Are residents engaged in activities, or are they all confined to their rooms or lined up in hallways?%u2022 How do the caregivers interact with the residents%u2014compassionately or harshly?%u2022 Talk to residents: How is the food? Do you like it here? Does the staff help you when you need it? %u2022 Talk to the staff: How many patients do you have today? Too many? Do you like working here? Does management help you? Are they responsive to you?%u2022 Is it a place you would choose for yourself?VISITING A FACILITY