BCLadynpink

LTC was my last choice in nursing but I found that it has been one of the most rewarding. Since you have been accepted into a program I suggest that you get some acute care experience under your belt. Minimum of 2 years. It will make a orld of difference in your assessmnet skills. Being a CNA is quite different than being "the charge nurse". Yes there are GOOD NURSING HOMES. I work in one. The nursing home is only as good as the "CARING NURSES" that work in it. Happy nurses, make happier 'residents' (as we refer to our patients since it is their home) Look at the CMS.gov website, they post the latest 'reports' on any nursing home in the country. Perhaps this way you can compare important values such as incidents of falls, restraints, UTI's, etc. they tell 'stories' on the way they are run. Let you conscience be your guide.

Where are your administrator and DON putting their bets? It takes from 2.5 to 4 hours to complete one MDS (with CP & RAPS) on any good day. Do they realize that accuracy and timeliness is what keeps their doors open? I work in a 126 bed facility. There is an RN and an LVN in this department and NO NO we do not fill in (must be a dire emergency!!!). About the DAVE reviews, are they aware of this "new" thing that is "just an audit" yet what they report can affect if you get your money "taken back"? I believe that your MDS department does not get the respect it needs because the powers that be are looking at you as a paper pusher and not as a "green dollar maker". I hope they make the corelation soon before something drastic happens to wake them up. Happier in CA.

Hi to everyone, Just want to broaden my knowledge and have a question on Nursing ratios as they apply to long term care facilities. Any comments?