Nursing homes provide an important service to those unable to take care of themselves due to illness or disability. When choosing a nursing home, ensure that you understand the available positions and the qualifications needed to fill them. Here are 16 positions you should consider when looking for a nursing home for yourself or a loved one.
1. Registered Nurse (RN): RNs are responsible for providing direct care to patients, including administering medications and treatments, monitoring vital signs, and providing emotional support. They also assist in diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries.
2. Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): LPNs provide primary care, such as changing dressings, administering medications, and assisting with bathing and other activities of daily living. They may also help with rehabilitation and physical therapy.
3. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA): CNAs assist with primary personal care, including bathing, dressing, grooming, and feeding. They also help with activities of daily living and provide emotional support to patients.
4. Home Health Aide (HHA): HHAs provide in-home care to people with disabilities or chronic illnesses. They may assist with primary personal care, provide companionship and emotional support, and perform light housekeeping duties.
5. Occupational Therapist (OT): OTs provide therapeutic and rehabilitative services to those with physical, mental, and emotional disabilities. They help patients develop, maintain, or improve their abilities to perform activities of daily living.
6. Physical Therapist (PT): PTs work with individuals to help improve mobility, reduce pain, and maintain or improve their overall physical health. They may use various techniques, including exercises, stretches, and massage.
7. Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP): SLPs help patients with speech and language delays and disorders. They provide therapy to improve communication and swallowing and guide communication devices.
8. Dietitian/Nutritionist: These professionals help patients maintain a balanced diet by providing nutrition education, creating meal plans, and monitoring food intake.
9. Social Worker: Social workers provide emotional and practical support to patients, families, and caregivers. They help with various issues, including financial, housing, and legal concerns.
10. Recreational Therapist: Recreational therapists help patients maintain independence and quality of life by using activities such as games, arts and crafts, and physical activities.
11. Medical Records Technician: Medical records technicians organize and manage patient health information, including medical and laboratory reports, treatment plans, and insurance documentation.
12. Pharmacy Technician: Pharmacy technicians help with medication-related tasks, such as reviewing prescriptions, filling orders, and tracking inventory.
13. Housekeeper: Housekeepers clean, disinfect, and organize living spaces in a nursing home. They may also assist with laundry and other household duties.
14. Maintenance Worker: Maintenance workers are responsible for keeping the facility in good repair. They may perform painting, landscaping, and installing new equipment.
15. Activities Director: Activities directors plan and organize recreational and social activities for patients. This can include games, crafts, movies, and music.
16. Office Manager: Office managers oversee the nursing home’s administrative and financial operations. They may supervise staff, manage budgets, and handle insurance claims.
These are just some of the positions available in nursing homes. Before making a decision about which one to choose, be sure to research each one to ensure that it is a good fit for you or your loved one.
