One of the most valuable components of your decision in choosing assisted living for a loved one can fall into the role of the Nursing Assistant. Ironically, the Nursing assistant is the one that will offer the most direct care and attention to patients. With this in mind, it’s imperative that you get to know the Nursing Assistant and nurses that will be offering care. In addition, there are some other tips that you should follow to ensure that your loved one will get the best care without you having to worry unnecessarily.
I think one of the first things that you should be curious about is the Nursing assistants’ credentials. While you don’t need to drill the nursing assistant, you can inquire about their CNA Training in a respectful friendly way. If you find it fitting, you can ask them about their training program. Some questions that you could ask include: When did you complete your CNA Training program?, In which state did you take your exam?..etc. You should find that the CNA will be friendly and open about their training. If they are, this is a good indicator that they will offer your loved one great care. Just as a side note, I thought it was relevant to mention that comparing a newly trained CNA to a more veteran one isn’t always a greater or less than factor. I have seen newly trained nursing assistant workers that are eager to make up their lack of experience with zealous effort. In addition, I have seen some veteran experienced ones cut corners.
How does your nursing assistant seem as a person? While you may not be able to commit your nursing assistant to a lie detector test, you should try to gauge how they present themselves as a person. Take note of how they care for themselves too. All of these small indicators can be (but remember, not always) a direct reflection on how they will extend care to your loved one. If you feel uncomfortable with the nursing assistant, do not be afraid to ask for another one. Assisted living situations are rather expensive nowadays, and they should be more than willing to make adjustments for you.
Offer your most sincere appreciation to your nursing assistant. While they are “doing their job”, they are also taking a genuine interest in looking after your loved one. It can mean a world of a difference if you make an effort to thank your nursing assistant for a job well done. Their work is far from easy, and when you show your appreciation towards them, they will return the favor to you by continuing to provide only their very best when they care for your loved one. Just put yourself in their shoes. How would you feel when someone complements you on your job well done? With these tips in mind, you should have no problem finding a nursing assistant that will take excellent care of your loved one.