Look for at least one staff R.N. in addition to the Director of Nursing (who should be an R.N.). Consider the number of floor nurses and LPN’s in comparison to patients and look for C.N.A.’s on the floor. These are certified nursing assistants who have completed a training program to be qualified to care for the elderly. Facilities who offer ongoing training programs for newly hired nursing assistants are staffed with quality care givers. Ask if in-service training is present and if all staff members continue to learn. Make sure that staff will stay abreast of new trends, treatments, and information.

Check to see if there is a full time Social Worker or Social Services Director. This person should be one you deal with during the inquiry phase of a search for a facility but he or she is also a vital support for residents. Social workers will make certain residents receive the care necessary and benefits they are entitled to have.

A good nursing facility should have a staff doctor. Inquire about his or her schedule. While the staff doctor doesn’t have to be on site at all times, ask how often he visits and whether or not residents can also receive visits from a personal physician.

Look for a management team – administrator, assistant administrator, social worker, and activity director – who has worked together for at least one year. Many facilities experience high turnovers, which can create an unstable environment.

Care plans should be created for each individual resident. Ask if care plan meetings, which should involve the family, can be scheduled at convenient times. Input from both the resident and family should be weighed and considered. Everyone involved should be fully informed about care plans and any changes.

Ask to see the most recent state inspection report. Look for any deficiences and ask if these have been corrected. Avoid any facility that has a large number of deficiences listed.