From the residents perspective!

Specialties Geriatric

Published

Specializes in nursing home care.

Just had to mention a moment from the other day at work. Dr X (a resident) was sitting in the corridor apparently watching the world go by. He looked sad, I stopped to talk to him, he said he was lonely, he said everyone was walking by him. I naively stated they may be busy, he replied 'there should always be time for the residents'. My god, he is true, I know I try my best to make time, even smiling at people, holding their hand offers a glimpse of time, a glimpse of being involved in the world around them. I wrote this from the views in my grans psychiatric ward.:o

I sit in the shadows,

Steady streams of traffic rushing by.

A moment of recognition in the headlights,

The journey continues.

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Specializes in ER, LTAC.

I know "that look" all too well, and my heart just breaks everytime I see it.

I get to work 15-20 mins early just to "visit" each of my 25 residents for a minute before my shift starts. A big smile and a gentle touch with a few kind words can literally make their whole day. And even though I "run" from the minute my shift starts til it finally ends, I NEVER rush a resident-to take their meds, or to eat, or whatever and I always take time to ask them how they are doing or if they need anything if they are just sitting in the dayroom. After all, WE are guests in THEIR home!

Maybe I'm just an ol' softee, but I treat every resident as I would treat MY parent or grandparent-they deserve it. I never forget that some day, it'll be MY turn to sit in the dayroom!

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Specializes in CCU, Med-surg, Long term.

I agree with you completely. Especially about the refocusing technique " What if this was my Mom/Dad" Puts things in perspective. Too much time and so many needs, but what the hell are we there for if we have to brush by these wonderful people?

thanks for the reminder.

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Specializes in see bio.

Marjorie you are right. Is it ever about the resident? I know that is what facilities claim their credo to be, but is it? They are rarely involved in decision making concerning their care, When seem to over look this need and present care needs to others(family, guardians, POA's).Often they are just caought up in the system with all control of their lives in the hands of others. So when I hear one of my resident's say, "please stay with me awhile" , "don't leave" or the just need to talk a minute I try very hard to take even a little time to do so(there is never enough time). The human touch and humor also work well for me. I wish time allowed more.

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