Consumers

Topics in this Section:

1. Long Term Care Services
2. After Admissions: Answering your Questions about Long Term Care
3. Physical Restraints: Important Information for Residents and Families

Long Term Care Services

Many varied services are available in Long Term Care facilities. As may be expected, many of the services are medical in nature. Nursing homes also provide social services and activities that are a critical part of a resident's care. A variety of services are performed by the facility staff, and other specialized services are available from contract personnel. A multi-discipline team evaluates the resident's needs and determines the services that are required. The resident and/or family are an integral part of this care planning process.

PAYMENT SOURCES

The resident's attending physician directs the nursing care provided by the facility staff. Registered nurses and licensed practical nurses are available 24 hours per day to perform professional nursing services. Restorative nursing care helps residents recover from acute episodes such as strokes or heart attacks. Injection and other medication are administered in accordance with the physician's orders. Wound dressing changes, catheter care, and other nursing procedures are performed as needed. Certified nursing assistants work with the residents and monitor their physical condition. Assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and eating are among the services provided.

DIETARY

Nutritionally balanced meals are of vital importance to the overall health of the resident. A specially trained Food Service Director consults with a registered dietitian to establish menus for the three meals provided each day. Therapeutic diets are prepared and consideration is given to individual eating habits and likes/dislikes. Particular attention is paid to the individual dietary needs of the residents. Occasions such as holidays also receive special attention from the Dietary Department, and guest meals are usually available if family or friends wish to share a meal with the resident.

ACTIVITIES

Activities are an important part of day-to-day life in a nursing home. An Activities Director with special qualifications works with volunteers, community organizations, and facility staff to provide varied activities for the residents. Entertainment, exercise, parties, socializing, relaxation, creativity, and more are all part of the activities program. The program's purpose is to supplement nursing care with care for the social, psychological, and spiritual needs of the resident. One-on-one contact is provided for those residents that may not be able to participate in group functions.

SOCIAL SERVICES

Entering a long term care facility can often be a traumatic experience for the resident and the family. A social worker trained to deal with these emotions is available. During the resident's stay, referrals for outside services such as psychological, financial, or legal assistance can be arranged. Individual or group discussion of emotions and concerns are valuable services for residents and families.

THERAPY

Physical therapy that helps the resident regain strength or stimulate the healing process is available. Communication skills can be enhanced by work with a speech therapist. Occupational therapy can help residents achieve the highest degree of independence in their daily lives. These three main areas of therapy provided by professional therapists are another part of how long term care facilities provide medical care that meets all the needs of their residents.

SPECIALIZED SERVICES

Dental services, eye care, podiatry, hearing care, and others can be obtained to meet the needs of the resident. Individual needs are constantly evaluated so that required services are obtained in a timely manner.

OTHER SERVICES

Beautician/barber services are available to provide haircuts, settings, and permanents. Laundry services include providing linens and personal laundry care. Many other services can be obtained if you just ask.

CARE PLANNING

All the professionals mentioned here are involved in care planning to the extent required. This process ensures that the resident receives the services necessary to attain or maintain the highest practicable physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being.

WHAT NEXT?

If quality long term care is what you are looking for, a North Carolina nursing home is the place to find it.

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