[springlover]

I have recently been hired to be our facilities restorative coordinator. We have CNA's who work in this department also. I have been given little to no orientation. ( The previous coordinator is gone) Is anyone familiar with this position? Does anyone know of anywhere I can get training? (Classes seminars) I live in Michigan. I would appreciate imput.

[cholli]

Our local technical college has an 8 week (24 hour) restorative nursing course, taught by a PT. There is a rehab center south of us that has a 1 week course (very intensive). I live in WA state, but contact the local schools, also don't forget your counterparts at the other ECF's in your area.
good luck, have you done the MDS before? I recall this nursing position being a lot about safety, transfers, updateing careplans and contracture assessments.

[chadash]

Restorative care can be as basic as improving mobility, encouraging and equiping the patient to have more independence in ADLs (such as feeding, toileting and hygiene) and increasing range of motion. If your patients are post operative or post stroke, you should have clear cut prescribed physical therapy, and clear cut goals. Your NAs will be a great asset if there are enough of them, and if you have inservice instruction on the how-to restorative care. Make sure they have the low down on how to move orthopedic surgical patients safely.
Sounds like a great job!