Interviewing Nursing Homes

[Mikalob]

I'm in the process of helping interview nursing homes for my grandmother. Does anyone have any suggestions on good interview questions?

If i get enough responses i could compile a list so that anyone that came to this site could benefit from the questionnaire.

[Michael]

First, I'll have to think about this one a little and do some research. I'll get back to you.

Secondly, I think it is a wonderful idea, providing you have enough responses, to compile a questionnaire. Great suggestion!!!

[Michael]

Here are some questions that i found while doing some research. These are NOT my questions. I've copied them from two sources, which I've sited:

Source: http://www.dibbern.com/nursing-homes/questions-choosing-nursing-home.htm

1. Does the nursing home automatically put the resident in diapers when they begin their stay at the nursing home?
2. Does the nursing home help the resident wash their face every morning?
3. Does the nursing home help the resident brush their teeth in the morning and after meals or check that they have done it themselves?
4. Does the nursing home provide regular dental checkups?
5. Does the nursing home have a doctor on staff who will attend a resident who gets the flu or other illness while in the nursing home?
AND
For a nursing home resident who becomes ill or injured while in the nursing home, who calls in the staff doctor, and in what circumstances?
6. What kind of clothing should a nursing home resident wear?
7. What do the residents do between scheduled activities in a nursing home?
8. How do nursing home residents get around in the wheel chairs by themselves?
9. Does the nursing home move residents to new rooms at will?
10. What is the procedure in a fire?

Source: http://ahcaxnet.fdhc.state.fl.us/nhcguide/select_home.shtml

1. When was the facility last inspected?
2. What deficiencies were cited, if any? Ask to see the last inspection report.
3. How many residents does a nurse care for during a day, evening, or night shift?
4. How many residents does a nurse's aide care for during a day, evening, or night shift?
5. What arrangement does the facility have for medical services such as doctor visits and specialized equipment and therapies?
6. What transportation arrangements does the facility have for the residents?
7. What special training does the staff have?
8. What are the policies for deposits, refunds, and bed holds?
9. How does the nursing home safeguard against loss of residents' personal belongings?
10. How much advance notice does the facility provide before increasing charges for regular or additional services?
11. What types of activities are included in the facility's social program? Ask to see the activity calendar.
12. Does the nursing home have a program to limit the use of physical restraints?
13. What are the designated visiting hours? Can exceptions be made for special needs?

[Rogue]

This is great!