Nursing home residents count on staff members to take care of their needs, which requires a multifaceted care team. Even residents who need minimal care will likely need the assistance of registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and nursing assistants. Each of these roles has different responsibilities but together provide everything from personal hygiene and mobility assistance to vitals monitoring and medication administration.
One thing that some people don’t realize is that if any of these critical positions are understaffed, it can mean that the residents don’t get the care they need. It could be the result of staff members having to rush to care for all the residents. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the nursing home administration to ensure that all shifts are properly staffed.
What are the risks of understaffing?
There are many risks of understaffing in nursing homes. Residents are more likely to have pressure ulcers, falls and urinary tract infections when understaffing is present. It’s also possible that the signs of declining health in residents, particularly those who have complex medical needs, may also go unrecognized.
In some cases, the risks to residents come because of a lack of proper documentation and care planning. Detailed records and coordinated treatment plans are critical in long-term care settings, but these tasks may not be completed properly when staff members are rushing.
Anyone who has a loved one in a nursing home should pay close attention to the care the resident is receiving. Any signs of resident neglect should be reported and addressed immediately to prevent further resident harm. Legal action may be necessary, which may require the assistance of someone familiar with these matters.