Resident Rights
An example of a dignity violation.
What is leaving a resident exposed during care, speaking to the resident disrespectfully, calling a resident "honey", "baby", "grandma", telling a resident to void in their brief?
This standard response time is the goal when a call light goes off in a resident's room.
What is answering promptly (usually within 5 minutes)?
Instead of saying "I don't know," a staff member could say this.
What is "I don't know, let me find that out for you"?
You should only document measurable, visible/objective facts and avoid using these in your notes.
What are personal opinions, assumptions, or feelings?
This simple physical action shows a resident you are listening and care or feel seen when you pass them in the hallway.
What is making eye contact (greeting them by name or smiling as appropriate)?
A resident says no to taking their morning medication or to participating in an activity. You must respect this right.
What is the right to refuse?
This safety tool requires 2 people and must be used when transferring a resident who requires maximal assistance.
What is hoyer lift/maximove?
Instead of saying "I'm too busy.", "I'm not assigned to you.", "That's not my job.", or "Someone else is supposed to do..." use this phrasing to reassure a resident.
What is "I am with another resident right now, but I will be with you by (time)", "Let me get Jasmine your CNA for you"?, "I am happy to assist you"?
This type of delayed or forgotten charting can lead to legal and safety risks.
What is late entry documentation?
When a resident or family member is upset, this active step comes before trying to fix the problem.
What is active listening and showing empathy without interrupting?
Staff must keep all resident medical and personal details safe under this federal privacy law.
What is HIPAA?
Daily oral care, bathing, and grooming help prevent infection and maintain this basic health standard.
What is personal hygiene?
Instead of saying "We're short staffed" a staff member could say this.
What is "Our team is working hard to serve everyone safely", "We are making sure everyone gets the attention they need today and I appreciate your patience" or "Your care is important to me, I am finishing up with another resident right now, and then I am coming straight to you."
This is what you must do if you sign you completed skilled UDA or weekly veteran documentation on the MAR?
What is complete the task?
Treating family members and residents with respect helps build this key element of customer service.
What is trust?
Residents have the right to voice these without fear of punishment or retaliation.
What are grievances or complaints?
A PRN medication should ideally be assessed and administered within this timeframe after a resident makes a valid request or shows non-verbal cues of discomfort.
What is as soon as possible (typically within 15 minutes depending on severity)?
Instead of telling a resident "Void in your brief" or "Therapy has to evaluate you first" use this positive phrasing to promote safety.
What is "To avoid you potentially getting injured, let me find out the safest way to assist you."
To avoid disciplinary action, this is what CNA's must do prior to leaving for the day.
What is complete POC documentation for assigned residents?
This concept means treating the facility like the resident's true home, not a hospital.
What is a person-centered or home-like environment?
You must do this before entering a resident's private room or touching them.
What is knock or ask for permission?
This term describes putting off a resident's request for help, which can lead to falls or skin breakdown.
What is care delay or missed care?
Instead of saying "I already told you" or "It's policy." a better alternative is.
What is "I want to make sure this is clear for you" or "Our team follows these steps to keep everyone safe"
The golden rule of charting states: "If it wasn't documented, it wasn't..."
What is done?
This is the best way to handle a request you cannot fulfill right away.
What is explaining what you can do and giving an estimated time for help?