Giving LTC residents that secure feeling. Risk management and loss prevention techniques

Nursing homes today are promoting the physical, emotional, and psychosocial security of their residents while involving them and their families in the ultimate decision making. These efforts, however, do not minimize nursing homes' responsibility to ensure a secure environment through good risk management and loss prevention techniques. Facility managers should annually evaluate policies and procedures to ensure that department standards are realistic and reflect the accepted standard of care owed to residents. Technological and functional developments in healthcare make continuous staff training programs a necessity. Involving patients and their families in care planning and treatment decisions can enhance residents' feelings of security. These feelings are further bolstered by a safe environment. Staff should also be alert to changes in residents' behavior. When a resident is admitted to a nursing home, managers should obtain signed consent forms for potential future medical treatment and resident trips. Managers' responsibilities also extend to situations beyond their control. All long-term care facilities must have practical plans in case of natural disasters.