even though this is an older thread. I've been working in a SNF since 2011. I have 30 patients, in my 8 hour shift. If I pickup a midnight shift I have 40. I believe BOTH of those number are the legal limit. Because the pt's r there long term I basically get through my medpass because I've memorized it. Since you still have to check it off in the computer as you go, you can see in advance if meds have changed. I was told a few weeks ago the same as the poster said, some governing people were coming and do like we are supposed to not like we actually do. Because I like my co-workers and get paid so much, I have stayed, however a nurse left the bathroom the other day, and I COULD SMELL that she had c diff. I point blank told her"you have c diff" She said what's the point of treatment I will just get it again. we often hang the isolation kits on the doors, but there are never gowns in them, and people don't use them anyway, and all the linens are mixed together. Since people are there long term, they roam around the building even if everyone knows they have c diff. it's almost like , what don't the higher ups know this can eat away at your bowels, people are taking this stuff home to our children! that is the last straw for me. I have started to update my resume and will look for work elsewhere. I will say on the goodside of working in long term care. It is NICE to know and see the same patients over many weeks as you get to see their progress, and BECAUSE of the high pt load all of us workers are close and work well together, (cuz we have to, like as if you were in a platoon in the War together!)
