🖨️How to Use This Checklist
• First: Download the PDF using the "Download PDF Checklist" button above
• Print the downloaded PDF for best formatting and page breaks
• Check off questions as you ask them or get answers
• Use the notes section to record important responses
• Bring this printed checklist to meetings with providers
• Keep completed checklists for future reference
🎯Care Quality and Staffing
5 questions to cover
1. What is your staff-to-resident ratio during different shifts?
Why this matters: Lower ratios typically mean more personalized attention and better care quality for residents.
2. What are the qualifications and training requirements for your nursing staff?
Why this matters: Understanding staff credentials helps you assess the level of medical expertise available.
3. How do you handle medical emergencies?
Why this matters: Emergency protocols can be critical for resident safety and peace of mind for families.
4. What is your staff turnover rate?
Why this matters: High turnover can indicate management issues and may affect continuity of care.
5. How often does a doctor visit residents?
Why this matters: Regular physician visits are essential for managing chronic conditions and health monitoring.
Additional Notes for Care Quality and Staffing:
💡Daily Life and Activities
5 questions to cover
1. What does a typical daily schedule look like?
Why this matters: Understanding daily routines helps you assess if the lifestyle fits your needs and preferences.
2. What activities and programs do you offer?
Why this matters: Engaging activities are important for mental health and quality of life in long-term care.
3. How do you accommodate different dietary needs and preferences?
Why this matters: Proper nutrition and food enjoyment significantly impact health and satisfaction.
4. Can residents personalize their living spaces?
Why this matters: Personal touches help maintain dignity and comfort during the transition to facility living.
5. What are your visiting hours and policies?
Why this matters: Family involvement is crucial for resident wellbeing and family peace of mind.
Additional Notes for Daily Life and Activities:
🔍Safety and Environment
5 questions to cover
1. What safety measures do you have for residents with dementia?
Why this matters: Specialized safety protocols are essential for residents with cognitive impairments.
2. How do you prevent and respond to falls?
Why this matters: Fall prevention is critical as falls are a leading cause of injury among elderly residents.
3. What infection control measures do you follow?
Why this matters: Proper infection control protects vulnerable residents from preventable illnesses.
4. Are there cameras in common areas for security?
Why this matters: Security monitoring can help protect residents while respecting their privacy rights.
5. How do you handle residents who wander?
Why this matters: Wandering management is important for dementia care and overall facility safety.
Additional Notes for Safety and Environment:
⭐Costs and Financial Planning
5 questions to cover
1. What is included in your basic monthly fee?
Why this matters: Understanding what's included helps you accurately compare costs between facilities.
2. What additional services cost extra?
Why this matters: Hidden fees can significantly impact your budget, so transparency is important.
3. Do you accept Medicaid, and what is the process?
Why this matters: Medicaid acceptance affects long-term affordability for many families.
4. What happens if a resident runs out of private funds?
Why this matters: Understanding financial policies protects against unexpected displacement.
5. Are there any admission fees or deposits required?
Why this matters: Upfront costs can be substantial and affect your initial financial planning.
Additional Notes for Costs and Financial Planning:
📋Communication and Family Involvement
5 questions to cover
1. How do you communicate with families about resident status?
Why this matters: Regular communication helps families stay informed and involved in care decisions.
2. Who should we contact with questions or concerns?
Why this matters: Clear communication channels help resolve issues quickly and effectively.
3. How are care plan changes discussed with families?
Why this matters: Family involvement in care planning ensures that treatment aligns with resident preferences.
4. What role can family members play in daily care?
Why this matters: Family participation can enhance resident wellbeing and family satisfaction.
5. How do you handle complaints and resolve conflicts?
Why this matters: A clear grievance process protects residents' rights and ensures quality improvement.
Additional Notes for Communication and Family Involvement:
📊 Summary & Next Steps
Key Concerns Identified:
Follow-up Actions:
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