NURSING HOME QUICK TIPS LIST
The Quick Tip List was developed to give
an overall indication of what to look for when
touring the nursing home by looking at just five
categories of questions. The questions are easy
to understand, common sense things to look
for when touring a facility. Just use your senses
(Look, Listen, Smell and Taste) for each category
of questions and you will be able to determine
whether a facility has high standards.
Higher standards are the key to better the
care. Don’t accept explanations or excuses from
the nursing home you are considering. If you
find a nursing home with low standards, move
on to the next nursing facility.
1. Facility. Look for cleanliness and be aware of
any strong odors.
• Look at the floors - Are they shiny if tiled, and
are they free from stains, if carpeted?
• Look at the furniture - Is it dirty and worn?
• Look at the structure - Are the walls, doors
and fixtures in good repair?
• Is the home well lit? Are there any strong
foul odors?
• Are there overpowering “good smelling”
fragrances that could be masking or covering
up foul odors.
2. Staff. Look & listen to observe the following:
• Is the staff well groomed and dressed professionally
and appropriately?
• How does the staff interact with patients
and visitors?
• Does staff seem friendly, caring, patient, polite
and helpful?
• Do they seem happy?
• Does the care staff seem to work well with
each other?
• Is staff polite and courteous or are they complaining
to each other?
• Is the interaction between management and
the care staff positive?
• When you ask questions, does management
seem forthcoming or are they hesitant to
answer? Do they seem agitated or aggravated?
3. Patients. Look, listen and smell to observe
the following.
• Are the patients that you see groomed and
clean? (shaven, nails trimmed and dressed
appropriately)
• Do you smell any strong odors coming from
the patients?
• Do patients seem to be receiving attention
by staff if needed?
• Are the patients that are more active and
social involved in any activities?
• Do they seem to be enjoying their interaction
with staff?
Note: Do not go into any patient’s room
without the permission of the patient and the
staff. Please respect the privacy of the patients.
30 www.PolkElderCare.com