Posted by Gary R. Ilminen, RN (209.83.13.114) on April 02, 2001 at 18:20:02:
Researchers are finally asking the right people questions about how to improve quality in long-term care� the nursing assistants. In a study just published in the Annals of Long- term Care, the views of nursing assistants are sought by researchers in Texas on what makes for quality of care in the nursing home setting.
What CNAs told the researchers basically matches many of the best principles of management: CNAs are people who respond to good, respectful management and quality is better for residents when working conditions are better. CNAs said there are some important things management should do to show leadership in improving quality; among them: 1) managers should actually assist with providing care; 2) clinicians and managers should respect the CNA staff on a professional level and demonstrate appreciation when the staff goes the extra mile to get the job done; 3) management should take steps to improve retention of CNA staff and cut turnover; 4) RNs and other licensed staff should be willing to assist with direct care when needed; 5) Better pay would cut the need for expensive agency staffing.
To read the entire study, go to: http://www.mmhc.com/nhm/articles/NHM0102/burke.html.
For much more information about the regulations, quality standards and overall management practices in nursing homes that affect your practice as a CNA, check out "Consumer Guide to Long-term Care." For free information on the book and how to get a copy, go to: http://www.wisc.edu/wisconsinpress/books/3075.htm.