Nursing Home Staffing Standards
Nursing home regulations have tightened, particularly in requirements for staffing. The amount and type of staff typically depends on the number of patients in the facility as well as the types of services it provides.
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Federal Requirements
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States often have their own rules when it comes to nursing home staffing. However, any of those that accept federal monies -- such as from Medicare or Medicaid programs -- must follow federal staffing standards. For example, a registered nurse must be on duty for eight consecutive hours per day, seven days a week, in all federally licensed homes.
Nursing Assistants
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Though there are no federal laws regarding the number of certified nursing assistants (CNAs) in a facility, those that accept federal insurances are required to employ assistants who meet certain criteria. Any CNA who practices at such a facility must have received 75 hours of related training, as well as pass a written exam.
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Continuing Education
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The majority of nursing home staff, to continue in their professions, must meet yearly continuing education requirements. Examples of classes they can attend include those concerning infection reduction, emergency response and patient psychosocial well-being.
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References
- Photo Credit nursing duties image by Pix by Marti from Fotolia.com