In a recent episode of “Taking Healthcare by Storm,” Quality Insights Medical Director Dr. Jean Storm engaged in a conversation with Jennifer Graley, RN, and Haley Moore, NHA. Jennifer serves as the Director of Nursing, and Haley is the Nursing Home Administrator at Valley Center in South Charleston, West Virginia. The focus of the discussion was the significance of resident and family engagement in long-term care facilities.
The conversation delved into various topics, such as the professional journeys of the speakers, their relationship with West Virginia, and the evolution of culture within long-term care facilities during and after the pandemic. Both Jennifer and Haley elaborated on the steps taken in their facility to foster a more home-like, resident-centered environment. Additionally, they addressed infection control challenges, the cautiousness of residents and families regarding vaccinations, the sources of vaccination information for residents and families, the functioning of the resident council and family forum at Valley Center, and the eagerness of residents and families to contribute to facility matters. The dialogue also highlighted the importance of effective communication with families in long-term care facilities, the crucial needs of residents and families, and the impact of vaccine misinformation.