Nursing

Care plans are developed through a comprehensive assessment process that begins before admission and continues throughout the resident’s stay. Our interdisciplinary team, led by registered nurses, conducts thorough evaluations of medical history, current health status, medications, functional abilities, cognitive status, and personal preferences. We involve the resident, family members, and previous healthcare providers in gathering information.

Our nursing team consists of licensed registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and certified nursing assistants (CNAs) who meet or exceed state licensing requirements. RNs hold nursing degrees from accredited programs and maintain current state licenses with continuing education requirements. Many hold specialised certifications in areas such as gerontology, wound care, or medication management. 

Yes, at Belmont Healthcare, we maintain registered nurse coverage 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to ensure continuous skilled nursing supervision and care. Our RNs are supported by licensed practical nurses and certified nursing assistants to provide comprehensive care around the clock. During evening and overnight hours, we maintain sufficient nursing staff to respond to emergencies, administer medications, monitor residents with complex medical needs, and provide skilled interventions as needed. This ensures that residents receive appropriate medical attention at any time of day or night.

Medication management follows strict protocols to ensure safety and effectiveness. Licensed nurses administer all medications according to physician orders and maintain detailed medication administration records. We use electronic medication management systems to reduce errors and track administration times. Medications are stored securely and checked regularly for expiration dates and proper storage conditions. We monitor residents for medication effectiveness and side effects, communicating changes to physicians promptly.

We have comprehensive emergency response protocols in place to handle medical emergencies quickly and effectively. Our 24-hour nursing staff are trained in emergency procedures, including CPR and first aid. For serious emergencies, we immediately contact emergency medical services while providing initial care and notifying family members and physicians. We maintain emergency equipment, including automated external defibrillators, oxygen, and emergency medications. Our staff record all emergencies thoroughly and conducts follow-up reviews to ensure appropriate care was provided. We also have established relationships with local hospitals and emergency services to facilitate rapid response when needed.

The admission process begins with a pre-admission assessment to evaluate care needs and determine if our services are appropriate. This includes reviewing medical records, conducting health assessments, and discussing care preferences with the resident and family. We verify insurance coverage and complete necessary financial arrangements. Before admission, we develop an initial care plan and coordinate with current healthcare providers for continuity of care. On admission day, we conduct a comprehensive nursing assessment, orient the resident and family to our facility and policies, and begin implementing the individualised care plan. Our staff provide extra attention during the adjustment period to ensure comfort and a successful transition.

We provide specialised nursing care for residents with various chronic conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, COPD, kidney disease, arthritis, and neurological conditions. Our approach includes regular monitoring of vital signs and symptoms, medication management and education, coordination with specialists and physicians, dietary support and nutritional counselling, physical therapy and mobility assistance, wound care and skin integrity maintenance, and family education about condition management. We work closely with healthcare providers to ensure treatment plans are followed and adjusted as needed, helping residents maintain the best possible quality of life while managing their chronic conditions effectively.

Family involvement is essential to providing person-centered care. We encourage families to participate in initial care planning meetings and regular care plan reviews. Families receive regular updates about their loved one’s condition and any changes in care needs. We welcome family input about preferences, concerns, and observations about their loved one’s well-being. Our nursing staff maintain open communication with families through phone calls, emails, or in-person meetings as preferred. We provide education about medical conditions and care approaches, and families are welcome to attend medical appointments when possible. We also offer family support resources and can connect families with community services when needed.

Nursing care costs vary depending on the level of care required, length of stay, and insurance coverage. We accept Medicare Part A for qualifying skilled nursing services following a hospital stay. Medicaid coverage is available for eligible residents who meet financial and medical criteria. Private insurance plans may provide coverage for certain nursing services. For private pay residents, we provide detailed cost breakdowns including room and board, nursing care, medications, therapy services, and additional amenities. Our financial counsellors work with families to understand insurance benefits, explore payment options, and discuss available financial assistance programs to make quality nursing care accessible.