Lecture Notes: Nurse Assistants in Long-Term Care

Introduction

• Opportunities for nurse assistants in long-term care are increasing.
• Aging population: By 2030, over 70 million people in the U.S. will be elderly.
• Nurse assistants provide the majority of care in long-term facilities.

Role of Nurse Assistants

• Provide up to 80% of resident care.
• Have significant contact and impact on residents.
• Balance between science (skills) and art (caregiving style) of caregiving is crucial.

Themes of Care

• Eight themes: Four caregiving themes, three nursing themes, and one general theme.

Caregiving Themes

1. Communication
2. Autonomy
3. Respect
4. Maximizing Capabilities

Nursing Themes

1. Safety
2. Infection Control
3. Observation

General Theme

• Time Management: Ensures efficient work conduct.

Skills and Procedures

• Skills organized into four parts: Consideration of resident capabilities, preparation, execution, and completion.

Preparation Steps

• Check resident's care plan.
• Knock and wait for permission to enter.
• Introduce yourself and verify resident's ID.
• Explain procedure and gather necessary supplies.

Completion Steps

• Ensure resident comfort and proper body alignment.
• Dispose of used items and wash hands post-procedure.
• Record and report any changes.

Specific Skills and Procedures

Handwashing

• Critical to prevent disease transmission.
• Wash hands before and after shifts, resident contact, and when handling food or contaminated items.

Making an Occupied Bed

• Requires careful handling to avoid contamination.

Moving and Positioning Residents

• Use good body mechanics to prevent injury.
• Seek help if unsure about moving a resident.

Transfers

• Stand-Pivot Transfer: Ensure safety with a guard belt.
• Mechanical Lift: Always follow manufacturer's instructions and use with at least two staff members.

Personal Care

• Denture Care: Clean at least twice daily, and handle with care.
• Shaving: Handle personal grooming with sensitivity.

Nail Care

• Regular cleaning and trimming to prevent injury.

Assisting with Meals

• Ensure nutritional needs are met, and meals are a pleasant experience.

Feeding Assistance

• Preserve residents' dignity by allowing independence when possible.
• Offer small, manageable bites and encourage nutritious foods.

Restorative Activities

• Range of Motion: Exercise joints daily to maintain mobility.
• Walking: Encourages independence and physical activity.

Conclusion

• Nurse assistants play a critical role in resident care and quality of life.
• Their work requires a balance of technical skills and compassionate caregiving.