Resident Rights
Residents have the right to be treated with what two things at all times?
Dignity and respect.
What is the most important way to prevent the spread of infection?
Hand hygiene.
What should you do if a surveyor asks you a question you don’t know the answer to?
Say, “I’m not sure, but I’ll find out for you.”
What should always be documented in real time?
Care given and any changes in the resident’s condition.
What should you do if you see a spill or trip hazard on the floor?
Clean it up or report it immediately.
True or False: A resident can refuse medication, treatment, or care.
True
When should staff perform hand hygiene?
Before and after resident contact, after glove removal, before eating, after restroom use.
If a surveyor walks onto your unit, what’s the FIRST thing you should do?
Smile, greet them politely, and ask if they need assistance.
What should you do if you notice a skin tear or bruise during care?
Report it immediately to the nurse and document appropriately.
What does R.A.C.E. stand for in fire safety?
Rescue, Alarm, Contain, Extinguish/Evacuate.
If a surveyor asks a resident a question, should staff answer for the resident
No. Allow the resident to speak for themselves.
What PPE is used for contact precautions?
Gown and gloves.
True or False: It’s okay to “wing it” if you’re unsure about a procedure during survey.
False. Always follow policy and ask for clarification.
When documenting, what should you avoid?
Opinions, assumptions, or blame — only record facts.
Where should oxygen tanks be stored?
Upright and secured.
What should you do if you see someone speaking harshly to a resident?
Report it immediately to your supervisor or administrator.
What should you do if you notice a hand sanitizer dispenser is empty?
Notify the nurse or environmental services to replace it immediately.
What are two words you should never say to a surveyor?
“Off the record.” or “We usually do it this way.”
If a resident refuses care, what do you do?
Respect the refusal, document it, and notify the nurse.
If a surveyor asks about an unlabeled spray bottle, what should you say?
All chemicals must be labeled; this one will be removed immediately.
What law guarantees residents’ rights in nursing homes?
OBRA 1987 – the Nursing Home Reform Act.
Where can you find the facility’s Infection Control Plan or Policy?
In the Infection Prevention Manual or with the Infection Preventionist.
What attitude impresses surveyors most?
Calm, confident, honest, and resident-focused.
What’s the rule of thumb for charting?
If it wasn’t documented, it wasn’t done.
How often should resident rooms be checked for safety hazards?
Every shift (and as part of rounds).