Choosing the right nursing facility is an important decision. For people who need short-term skilled nursing or rehabilitation therapy after hospitalization, the facility must be a quality provider of the medical services they need to return home as quickly and safely as possible. The facility must also be a comfortable, safe home for people who need long-term residential care.
In the United States, the quality of patient care is evaluated in several ways. For instance, to participate in Medicare and Medicaid programs, facilities are surveyed annually to assure that they comply with both federal and state regulations. In addition, many facilities receive accreditation from national professional organizations, such as the
Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations or the
Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. Results of these and other surveys can be obtained from the facility administration. State surveys must be available in the lobby or another easily accessible area of the facility.
Use SunBridge’s Facility Quality Checklist when you evaluate a nursing home for a family member.
Facility Quality Checklist
1. Are the facility and its administrator licensed?
2. Does the facility provide orientation for all new employees?
3. Are the family and residents’ councils active?
4. Do care plan meetings include the resident and family?
5. Are residents rights posted clearly?
6. Is the facility environment cheerful, clean and pleasant?
7. Are the building and grounds maintained in good condition?
8. Are safety bars in place in bathrooms and showers? Do you see handrails, grab bars and clearly marked exits?
9. Do rooms allow space for personal belongings?
10. Are clean pitchers of fresh water within reach of beds? Are call bells within reach?
11. Does the staff treat residents with courtesy and respect?
12. Are residents clean and well groomed?
13. Are call lights answered promptly?
14. At mealtimes, does the food look appetizing and tasty?
15. Are residents’ activities and events posted? Are scheduled activities taking place when you visit?
16. Do residents have access to an outdoor area?
17. Is a physician available in an emergency? Does the facility have an arrangement with a nearby hospital for emergencies?
18. Are other medical services - such as dentistry, podiatry and optometry available?
19. Does the facility regularly report to the patient’s personal physician?
20. Are routine and emergency medications available? Does a pharmacist review patient drug regimens?
