What does a social worker in a nursing home do?

Question

I am a CNA and I'm having problems with a very alert resident.

This resident is a clock watcher, mainly. Throws a fit if you're not there before she rings. We actually know when she will can as it's the same times every day.
I'd like someone to have a talk with her.

I work nights, mostly I'm trying to find out who to take this problem to, not specifically trying to take it out on anybody.

Answer 1

Social Workers usually work with the resident, not the staff. I would suggest you go to the charge nurse or nursing care coordinator if you are having problems. If that doesn't work, go to the assistant director of nursing or even as far as the director him or herself. There is no reason why you should have to be harassed at work, especially from someone you are trying to help.


Oh yeah the ever faithful clock watcher. Those were always fun. LOL. You need to tell the resident that you have other patients that you are responsible to take care of, and you are not able to be with her at the exact time she wants you to be every single time. Tell her that you understand she has needs too, and that you will try your best to meet her needs. If nothing else have the nurse or social worker meet with her. Maybe she has some other personal issues she would like to discuss, maybe she is unhappy with her situation or unhappy with the staff (I know you guys do a good job....but we all have "those" residents)

Answer 2

I can certainly understand your frustration with her. And since I am a social worker in a nursing home, I will give you my point of view. First of all, to answer the primary question, social workers do ALOT, from assessments, to charting, to admissions, to family concerns, to care plan meetings, etc, etc, etc. HOWEVER this is definitely an issue that spark my interest. If your social worker is unable/unwilling to help, talk to the resident. Reassure her regularly that you are there to care for her, like you are there to care for everyone else (but DON'T be hateful or she will not respond well). If it is the same time, everyday, try to work your schedule/routine to help meet her needs. This should be a part of her care plan as it is a mood indicator, and it is obviously a problem. An attainable goal needs to be set for her.

Also, although she sounds like she could definitely be a thorn in your side, the better your relationship becomes with her, the more trust and patience she will have with you. She sounds like she is upset to be there, that she thinks she deserves a lot of attention because she has been put there. Help her become more comfortable being there!

My company has 20 promises that we agree to, and discuss them on a daily basis. One promise is to "anticipate their needs." If you know what she is going to want and when, do it before she asks. This will definitely impress her.
Also, the social worker is not the only person you should be going to. Try the activities director....maybe there is an activity that could be a diversion or even some independent activity supplies she could use in her room. She could be just bored.

I know that you have a difficult job...I could never do it myself, BUT don't take out all of your frustrations on the social worker. They are probably doing alot more than you think!