Long-Term Care Overview

Study Notes

Long-term care differs from hospital and other healthcare settings in focus, services, and lengths of stay.
A typical long-term care facility houses residents needing ongoing care, often including, but not limited to, nursing, rehabilitation, and social services.
Medicare and Medicaid are government-funded programs that provide financial assistance for healthcare services, including long-term care.
Nursing assistants play a vital role in providing basic care, including personal care, mobility, and observation, complementary to the expertise of registered nurses.
The care team in a long-term care setting consists of various professionals (e.g., nurses, doctors, therapists), with a defined hierarchy and chain of command.
Policies and procedures outline the standards of care in long-term care facilities. Professionalism is about ethical and respectful care interactions.
Legal and ethical behavior for nursing assistants includes respecting resident rights (e.g., dignity, privacy), adhering to regulations, and ensuring accurate documentation.
Confidentiality of resident medical records is legally crucial. The proper handling and access to these records are to be adhered to strictly.
The Minimum Data Set (MDS) is a standardized assessment tool for residents, evaluating their needs and impacting care planning.
Incident reports document significant events, enabling analysis and prevention of future issues.

Effective communication (verbal and written) is essential in long-term care for accurate record keeping, coordinating care, and building trust.
Barriers to communication with residents may include hearing impairments, language differences, or cognitive decline, influencing interaction strategies.
Strategies for communicating with residents with special needs require adaptation, including using visual aids and alternative communication methods.
Safety measures and protocols are critical in long-term care settings, including fall prevention and handling nonmedical emergencies competently.
Recognizing and responding to medical emergencies requires training and strict adherence to emergency procedures (e.g., CPR and first aid).
Infection prevention and control practices (e.g., hand hygiene, isolation procedures) are paramount in a long-term care setting to minimize risk and spread.