foolish nursing home regulations

markus8174

I'm sure most of us that have had to explore long term placement for a family member have run up against this rule, but I just have to vent a bit.

My beloved in in a very good care facility. The staff are friendly and attentive, and I couldn't ask for better care. The problem persists that 2 ladies, one on either end of the hall, are constantly screaming in terror. They certainly can't help it, but the facility is unable to provide relief to these poor suffering people. CMS and other regulating bodies prohibit the use of sedative medications in long term care, and largely any mood altering medications of any class(antidepressants, pain medications, anti-psychotics...). Before I get "flamed", I know their are exceptions, but on the whole, a nursing home will loose brownie points with the Medicare.gov webpage for reviewing care facilities, and can be fined or lose accredation for providing the relief these residents desperately need. These poor people are suffering, and are making the floor very unpleasant for the other residents, many of whom don't understand why no one is rushing to the aid of someone screaming for help. 

One more example of why people with a PolySci.or Law degree shouldn't be making regulations about healthcare. It seems even healthcare professionals, once they enter a regulating body or political position, lose any perspective on patient's needs. 

One last note. If you are looking into placing a loved one into long term care, try to get their doctor to aggressively treat any anxiety/depression, or other mood disorder or pain problem in the community. It is much easier for a nursing home to "continue" a home med, than start a new one inside the facility.