Promotion of Function and Health of Residents
Mobility and positioning
Range-of-motion exercises keep joints from stiffening. Move the joint gently until you feel resistance, never past pain, and support the limb above and below the joint. Position residents in proper alignment with padding, and reposition at least every 2 hours - more often for those at high risk. Report redness over a bony area that does not blanch when pressed, and never massage it.
Nutrition and hydration
Know each resident's diet order: regular, mechanical soft, pureed, thickened liquids, or NPO. Offer fluids often; dehydration shows as dark urine, dry mouth, confusion, and poor skin turgor. Aspiration warning signs include coughing during meals, a wet or gurgly voice, and choking. Report them and follow positioning and feeding precautions.
Elimination and sleep
Bladder and bowel training uses scheduled toileting, adequate fluids and fiber, and activity. Report no bowel movement for three days or any change in urine color or odor. Promote sleep with a quiet room, a back massage, and a bedtime routine, and avoid caffeine in the evening.
Promoting independence
Restorative care means helping residents do what they can. Set supplies within reach, allow extra time, and give praise. Doing everything for a resident weakens them and takes away dignity.
Worked example. A resident with one-sided weakness can brush her teeth if the toothbrush is placed in her stronger hand. The aide sets up the supplies, encourages her, and finishes only what she cannot do.
Trap. Answers that have the aide do everything for the resident, withhold fluids to prevent incontinence, or force a joint are always wrong.