Nye Legacy Resident Handbook

Welcome to the Nye Legacy campus!  As one of the most experienced nursing facilities in this area, we are professionally staffed to provide a total range of healthcare services that you or your loved one may need.  Please feel free to ask any questions you may have.  We appreciate the opportunity to tell you about our facility and what services we offer.

Independence and quality of life are only two of the many important elements that make up the total experience of living at our facility.  From the moment you enter our home, you will be treated with the respect and dignity you expect in your own home.  Our staff is eager to assist you and ensure that they make your stay with us comfortable and pleasant.  Our philosophy is simple:  to restore and maintain maximum independence while delivering the highest quality care possible.  Whether you stay with us for short term rehabilitation or long term care, we strive to provide the highest quality of care for each resident while they are living in our home.

Nye Legacy Customer Service Philosophy

1. A RESIDENT AND THEIR FAMILY ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT PEOPLE IN OUR BUSINESS.
2. OUR RESIDENTS ARE NOT DEPENDENT ON US. WE ARE DEPENDENT ON THEM.
3. A RESIDENT’S NEED IS NOT AN INTERRUPTION OF OUR WORK. IT IS THE PURPOSE OF IT.
4. A RESIDENT DOES US A FAVOR BY CHOOSING TO LIVE AT THE FACILITY. WE ARE NOT DOING RESIDENTS A FAVOR BY WAITING ON THEM.
5. A RESIDENT IS PART OF OUR BUSINESS, NOT AN OUTSIDER.
6. A RESIDENT IS NOT JUST AN OCCUPANT. A RESIDENT IS A HUMAN BEING WITH FEELINGS LIKE OUR OWN.
7. A RESIDENT IS A PERSON WITH NEEDS AND WANTS. IT IS OUR JOB TO FILL THEM.
8. RESIDENTS DESERVE THE MOST COURTEOUS ATTENTION WE CAN GIVE. THEY PAY OUR SALARY AND ARE THE LIFE BLOOD OF THIS BUSINESS.  WITHOUT OUR RESIDENTS WE WOULD HAVE TO CLOSE OUR DOORS.
9. WE THANK OUR RESIDENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES FOR THE OPPORTUNITY TO BE OF SERVICE TO THEM AND THEIR FAMILIES.

Abuse and Neglect

Each resident has the right to be free from mistreatment; neglect; verbal, sexual, mental, and physical abuse; involuntary seclusion, and misappropriation of property.  The facility supports a “zero tolerance” standard for resident abuse, neglect or misappropriation of property, by anyone including but not limited to employees, other residents, volunteers, family members, legal representatives, friends, visitors, and/or other individuals that has contact with residents of the facility.

Any employee, or other interested party, who has knowledge or reason to believe that a resident has been a victim of abuse or has incurred an injury of unknown origin is under a duty to immediately report such incident or suspicion to the Administrator, Director of Nursing, or if they are unavailable, to the Charge Nurse on duty.

Assistive Devices

For resident using motorized scooters, wheelchairs, and walkers, we ask that you exercise caution in using these devices as not to jeopardize the safety of the residents, employees, and guests.  The interdisciplinary team will assess your ability to operate a motorized device as needed.  You are responsible for all damages caused by your assistive devices.

Arbitration

The Arbitration Agreement is an important contract that enables both the resident and the facility avoid potentially costly and time consuming litigation.  Although the agreement is voluntary, we encourage residents/tenants to enter into the agreement with the facility.  If other avenues of resolution to conflicts are exhausted, rather than entering into an expensive and time consuming process of lawsuit, the Arbitration Agreement provides for a legally sanctioned arbitration process in which both parties will save considerable time and legal fees and be able to resolve issues timely with binding legal precedence.  A resident/tenant can still choose to be represented by legal counsel and does not take away any resident/tenant rights provided for under provisions of the nursing home act.

Bed Hold and Re-Admission

If you are paying privately or covered by Medicare and you go to the hospital or leave the facility for vacation, your account will be charged the daily rate for each day your bed is held until you return or until your representative notifies us to release your bed and has removed all your personal items from the suite.

Medicare does not pay when you are out of the facility.  Bed hold days will be the resident’s personal financial obligation.

If you are Medicaid, Medicaid will pay to hold your bed while you are hospitalized for up to 15 days.  Medicaid will also pay to hold your bed while you are out on overnight therapeutic leave days (not counting hospital stays) or vacation for up to 18 days per year.

If your absence exceeds these described limits set forth by Medicaid, you will be discharged from the facility and may be readmitted to the facility to the first available Medicaid certified bed (This is assuming you require a level of care that we are licensed, certified, staffed, and equipped to provide.).

 

If you are planning an extended vacation or leave of absence from the facility, you should notify the office so necessary arrangements can be made in terms of medications, payment, etc…

Business Office

Hours of the Business Office are 8:00a.m. – 6:30p.m. Monday through Friday.  If billing questions arise, please contact our billing office or refer to the “Statement of Rates and Ancillary Charges.”

 

Care Level Charges

In an attempt to equalize resident rates based on the needs and services required by a resident, the facility has implemented a care level system of billing for residents.  This system results in a care level charge that is individually determined based upon your level of care determined on your MDS which will be determined, your care level assessment will be completed quarterly or when your care needs change.  Special equipment and/or medical supplies are not included in the monthly charge.

Care Planning

The resident is part of a care team compromised of all departments.  The resident and their family will be asked to meet to review your plan of care to ensure that we continue to meet your individual needs.  Residents and their families should always feel free to contact staff regarding a resident’s plan of care.

Chapel

The Chapel, located in The Plaza, is available to family and residents on a daily basis.  Watch the activity calendar for church service schedules.

Check Cashing

Due to limited cash kept in the office, you are encouraged to cash your checks at your bank or grocery store.  However, if you need assistance with this, contact the Business Office.

Clothing Recommendations

1. We recommend SIX complete changes of clothing and no more than two pair of shoes and two pair of slippers.  As a safety precaution, footwear must have non-skid soles.  In addition, depending on the season, one washable summer jacket, one winter jacket and gloves, and a scarf or hat to be used when out for doctor appointments and outings is recommended.  All clothing must be made of washable fabric.
2. Personal laundry is done by the facility separately from the facility’s linens at no additional charge.  If family chooses to do the resident’s laundry, they need to provide a hamper for clothes in the resident’s suite.
3. Seasonal clothing should be taken home for storage in order to provide more room for in-season clothing and decrease clutter in the closets and drawers.
4. Please check in all new items at the nurses station so they can ensure the new items get marked with your name and recorded on the inventory.  This will help track items and reduce the chance of the item(s) being misplaced.
5. We appreciate the family’s assistance with the cleaning and organizing of the resident’s drawers and closets to prevent excessive clutter.
6. Residents are encouraged to wear street clothes if able.  If special clothing is required, the family is responsible to provide for these special needs.
7. Families should check the condition and quantity of their resident’s clothing and make necessary purchases, repairs, and/or alterations.

Club/Organizational Meetings and Personal Parties

Resident’s are encouraged to host club or organizational meetings in any of our public rooms.  Reservations for any of our common rooms should be made in advance.   Please make your reservations early as arrangements are based on a first come, first serve basis.  Please contact the office to schedule.

Food service staff can offer their expertise and services for your catered functions.  If you are planning a special dinner, party or other event requiring catering services, please contact the Director of Food Services to make necessary arrangements.  All catering costs will be the responsibility of the resident requesting such services.  NOTE:  There is no cost for reserving rooms to host any gathering.  There may be fees cost of the food service, set up and/or take down of tables and chairs, and/or clean-up.

Clubhouse

The clubhouse, located in The Plaza is available for resident entertaining and activities.  Watch the activity calendar for events occurring in the Clubhouse.

Computers

For your convenience, we offer a computer located in the library at no extra cost to you.  Periodically throughout the year, we also offer various basic computer classes to assist residents to learn to use the computer.  In addition, your suite has computer access capabilities for a minimal fee and you can hire our IT specialist to do one-on-one instruction and assistance. If you are interested, please contact the office.

Concierge Services

You should see the office for following concierge services that are available for the residents’ use and convenience:

1. Notary Public Service (No Cost)
2. Stamps, Stationary, Envelopes, and Greeting Cards at a minimal cost.
3. Copying ($.15/copy)
4. Mailing Packages (The actual cost of mailing the package)
5. Change (No Charge)
6. Fax

Sending:  $2.00 first page and $1.00 each additional page

Receiving:  $1.00/page

1. Personal Services such as assistance with paperwork, personal errands, etc… (May be a charge depending on the extent of the services).

 

Conduct

The facility provides a clean, pleasant environment with 24 hour staffing to provide services to residents.  The residents and their guests are in turn expected to conduct themselves in a manner that respects the peace, quite, and privacy of other residents and their guests.

Decorating Privileges

You are encouraged to decorate your suite according to you own personal choice provided any decoration is not damaging or offensive to the building.  You may hang pictures and such on the wall but please do not use tape, nails, brads, screws, or the like on any of the woodwork.  We do request that pictures be hung on the painted walls and NOT on any wallpapered wall.  Hooks are provided on each door to hang seasonal or other welcome signs.  PLEASE DO NOT NAIL OR TAPE ITEMS TO THE DOORS.  If you request decorating assistance, the maintenance department will be available to assist you.  Please contact the office to arrange for this service.

1. You may have small appliances such as a fan, radio, small television, etc…. as space permits.  You should secure permission from the facility for use of personal appliances to ensure that safety guidelines are met.  Using appliances in your suite while a resident of the facility is at your own risk and the facility maintains no responsibility for injuries or property damage which may result from using any appliance.
2. Extension cords, multiple plug-ins, space heaters, and heating pads are prohibited by the State Fire Marshal.  All electrical appliances need to be UL approved.

3. Due to the risk for burns in older adults, we do not recommend heating pads or similar heat producing items. Please see the nursing staff for recommendations.

1. Seasonal items such as holiday decorations should be removed two weeks after the holiday.
2. Families should make arrangements for the care of plants in resident’s suites as the facility is not responsible for their care.
3. When bringing in items, please check them in at the nurse’s station so we can ensure proper labeling and inventorying of the item.  All items brought into the facility should be marked to prevent them from being misplaced.  This includes clothing, appliances, dentures, glasses, hearing aides, valuables, wheelchairs, etc
4. The facility discourages keeping valuable or large sums of money at the facility.

Money, jewelry, and other valuables should be given to the family or may be locked in the Business Office for safekeeping.  The facility will not be responsible for any valuables or money left at the facility in the resident’s possession and is not responsible for any lost, stolen, or misplaced items.

8. Please go through the suite and closet on at least a quarterly basis to thin out clothing and any unused items. Please let the nurses station know when you remove items so that they can be deleted from your personal inventory sheet.
9. When a resident is discharged from the facility, all possessions should be removed within five days. The resident will be charged the daily suite rate until the personal items are removed.  The facility will dispose of all items left past that time.  Should the suite be needed and belongings are not removed after five days, the facility will pack the belongings.

Direct Debit

The facility is able to offer residents the convenience of direct debit of their monthly facility billing statement from your checking or savings account.  If you are interested, please see the Business Office.

Dietary Services

The dining room services three meals a day plus snacks and is able to accommodate most specialty diets.  Our Director of Food Service will work with you and your physician to assist you with maintaining optimal nutrition.  A weekly menu will be posted for your information.  In addition, a morning, afternoon, and evening snack will also be available for all residents.  However, snacks and refreshments are available from the kitchen any time throughout the day.

We encourage you to invite guests to join you for any meal.  Please make reservations in advance for all guests to allow us proper staffing and meal preparation.  Meal tickets are available or charges for guest meals will automatically be added to your monthly billing statement or may be pre-paid at the time you make the reservation.

Any food items brought to the resident MUST be checked in at the nurse’s station to ensure compliance with special diets and/or restrictions.  The food must be in a closed container and perishables should be taken to the kitchen for proper refrigeration and labeling.

Casual clothing and street attire are appropriate dress for the dining room.  However, residents may wear lounging attire to the breakfast meal.

Please discuss your food likes and dislikes with the Director of Food Service so your menus can be adjusted as appropriate.  Efforts will be made to provide choices which meet your requests.

 

Meal times:

Open Breakfast       7:30-8:30 a.m.

Lunch                       11:30 a.m.

Supper                      5:30 p.m.

The café is available 24 hours per day to prepare a limited menu of foods and snacks.  

Eden Alternative

The Eden Alternative is a philosophy that encourages a facility to be a “habitat for humans” rather than an “institution for the frail and elderly” and seeks to eliminate the three plagues of “institutions” – loneliness, helplessness, and boredom.  We believe that The Eden Alternative is a powerful tool for improving the quality of life for people who live in our facility.  The Eden Alternative is a way of improving our quality of care by enlivening the environment with animals and plants.  The opportunity to care for other living things and the variety and spontaneity that mark an enlivened environment can succeed where pills and therapies fail.  The facility strongly encourages family involvement in the facility, facility neighborhood activities, and in the resident’s daily care to build a network of supportive relationships of care for the resident.

Elections

You may get the needed form from the office to request an absentee ballot two weeks prior to any election if needed.

Environmental Services

The full time maintenance department inspects each suite on a regular basis for safety and repairs.  In addition, our housekeeping staff is on duty each day to help make sure your suite is neat, clean, and orderly.

Equal Opportunity

Equal Opportunity has been, and will continue to be, a fundamental principle of the facility, where no person will be subjected to discrimination because of their race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, marital status, or any other protected characteristic as established and defined by Federal and State laws.  The facility is committed to an environment in which each individual is treated with respect and dignity.  Therefore, the company expects that ALL relationships among persons in the facility will be free of bias and prejudice.

Expectation Of Privacy

In order to protect the safety of staff and residents while maintaining the integrity of the premises and property, the facility maintains the discretion to monitor, record, and review the activity in the building, on facility grounds, and of facility equipment.  As a result, no employee, resident, visitor, or anyone else in the building should have any expectations of privacy including but not limited to:

1. 1. Common areas including but not limited to hallways, nurses station, lounges, lobbies, dining areas, and related areas.    Note:  Surveillance of the facility will exclude any” private areas” such as apartments, public bathrooms and locker rooms.
   2. Computer/internet usage and file storage on facility computers

Facility Responsibilities

The facility is responsible to:

1. Provide the resident with medical, nursing, and personal care services identified in the service agreement which are adequate and appropriate to the resident’s needs pursuant with applicable Federal and State statutes, rules, and regulations. The facility agrees to exercise such reasonable care as the resident requires; however, this facility is in no sense an insurer of the resident’s safety and welfare.

1. Use the services of and medications ordered by a licensed physician of the resident’s choice whenever necessary, or the services of another licensed physician if the resident’s personal physician is not available.  If the physician is not available to treat the resident, the facility shall use its best efforts to arrange for an alternative physician or secure emergency physicians’ services.  The expenses of physician services and medications are the responsibility of the resident and/or resident representative.
2. Arrange for the transfer of the resident to the hospital of the resident’s choice, when this is ordered by the attending physician, and to immediately notify the responsible party of such transfer.
3. Exercise reasonable care when taking the resident away from the facility on facility sponsored outings.  The facility assumes no responsibility for the Resident when the Resident is taken from the facility either temporarily or permanently under any other circumstances.
4. Notify the resident’s physician and resident representative of any significant change in the resident’s physical, mental, or psychosocial condition about which the facility has information, and of accidents involving the resident which results in injury or the need to significantly alter the resident’s treatment.
5. Provide adequately trained staff in sufficient numbers to meet the needs of the residents in this Facility.
6. Assure the rights of the residents are protected.
7. Maintain a building and grounds which meet or exceed local and state building and life safety codes.
8. Serve food which has been prepared in compliance with the Nebraska Food Code.
9. Keep records of account, services provided, and changes in residents’ condition.
10. Provide prompt attention to resident/family complaints or grievances.
11. Monitor the quality of services provided by this Facility and improve service quality when possible.
12. Investigate and report any alleged Resident abuse, neglect, or misappropriation of Resident funds or property.

Evaluate and reevaluate the condition and service needs of the resident upon admission, as necessary when there is a change of condition, and upon the request of the attending physician.

Finances And Monthly Service Charges

Monthly charges are due in full as outlined in the service agreement.  Payment can be made at the office.  If you are scheduling an extended vacation or absence from the facility, you should inform the office to arrange the necessary advance payment of monthly rental charges.

A $50.00 monthly late fee will be charged for any account with an outstanding balance of 30 days or older.  In addition interest at the rate of 15% will be charge in addition for outstanding balances in excess of 90 days. Balance adjustments which occur as a result of reconciliation with insurance or Medicare coverages will not result in late fees or interest charges.

See also Bedhold and Readmission.

Fire and Tornado Instructions

In the case of a drill or actual fire or tornado, staff will direct and guide residents per the facility policies.  Please remain calm and wait where you are for instructions from the staff.  If you have additional questions regarding these policies, please see the facility Administrator.

Health Data Information/Services

Residents are requested to regularly review and update their emergency information files in the office to ensure all information such as emergency contacts are current.

Services shall be provided for each resident per the Resident Agreement.  As a courtesy to the nursing staff and a benefit to you, please advise nursing staff if you have had changes in your general health condition or plan to have a medical procedure.

Insurance – Long Term Care

Long term care insurance, as well as some private insurances, do not accept assignment of benefits.  Although the facility will assist in submitting claims, the resident and/or their responsible party is responsible for submitting claims.  The resident and/or their representative is responsible for prompt and timely payment for the services provided based upon the private pay rates regardless of the status of insurance coverage or payment.

Insurance – Personal Coverage

The facility is adequately protected with liability and disaster insurance.  The facility’s insurance program does not provide insurance for your personal property or personal liability.  We suggest you consult with your insurance agent regarding your insurance needs, such as a renter’s insurance policy.

Laundry Services

You may have your personal clothing laundered at home or use our services which are available on a daily basis.  If you wish to launder your clothing at home, please arrange for regular pick-ups.  In either case, please label all items of clothing with your name with a permanent marker.  This allows our laundry staff to keep track of your clothing and take special care of your clothing.

Library

The library, located in The Plaza offers books, magazines, resources, and computer and internet access for residents and guests.

Limited Lift

The facility is dedicated to creating the safest environment for residents and workers.  Historically the highest incidence of injuries including falls and skins tears to residents has occurred during transferring of residents.  Utilizing mechanical lifts for heavy transfers is much safer as it:

• Eliminates the chance of falling
• Supports the body much better with padded harnesses putting less pressure on fragile skin
• Increases resident participation with sit stand lifts which can be therapeutic
• Can be utilized in wet areas where slips and falls frequently occur

As a result, the policy of the facility is that mechanical lifts are to be used on all moderate to maximum assist transfers as assigned to each resident by the Director of Nursing.  In addition, gait belts are to be utilized on all minimal assist transfers and ambulation to allow the staff to have better control and assistance with resident balance.

Mail and Newspaper Delivery

Mail is delivered directly to your suite.  You can make arrangements with the newspaper to have it delivered directly to your suite as well.  You will be responsible for the cost of newspapers which will be billed directly to you by the delivery service.

If you want any resident mail sent somewhere other than to the resident, please contact the post office for a change of address request.

Memory Boxes

The facility provides memory boxes outside your suite to personalize.  We encourage and request that residents and their families be sensitive to items placed in the memory boxes and to clean the interior of the memory box routinely.

Medicare Coverage

Medicare is a federal government program providing financial assistance for medical care.  This program is designed to help people age 65 and older as well as certain younger disabled people.  Local Social Security Administration offices take applications for Medicare and provide information about the program.  Medicare has two parts:

1. 1. Hospital insurance (Medicare A).  This can help pay for inpatient hospital care and may help pay for a limited number of days for a skilled nursing facility stay provided you meet the qualifications.
   2. Medical insurance (Part B).  This can help pay for physician services, outpatient hospital treatment, therapy, certain nursing home services, home health services, and a number of medical services and supplies. To obtain this coverage, a monthly premium must be paid.

3. Medicare does not cover the full cost of some covered services and usually covers
   only a limited number of days for skilled care.  For specific or additional
   information, you should contact your local Social Security Office.  This facility is
   certified to accept Medicare qualified residents and will be glad to assist you in
   contacting the local Social Security Administration office.

Medicaid Coverage

When a resident has depleted their personal savings or others assets and the resident’s income is not enough to pay for nursing home care, they may apply for Medicaid assistance.  Medicaid is a State run program that helps some people with low incomes and limited resources with medical costs and care such as physician visits, hospitalization, medications, and nursing home care.  If a resident has a spouse at home, the spouse may be able to keep a portion of the resident’s income, savings, and assets to meet their needs.

To apply for Medicaid, you must complete an application which you obtain from the local Department of Health and Human Services office (727-3200).  A Medicaid worker will review your particular situation and determine if you qualify for Medicaid.  The facility is certified to accept Medicaid qualified individuals and will be glad to assist you in contacting the local Health and Human Services office.  If you apply for Medicaid, you MUST inform the Business Office in advance.  The Social Services department is happy to assist you in completing Medicaid applications.  If you are in a private suite, you need to move to a companion suite when one is available.

If a resident pays for any service from the facility that Medicare or Medicaid will cover, the resident will receive a refund by the facility.  The Business Office should be contacted regarding any billing or refund questions.

NOTE: a Medicaid resident (even pending) should not pay any non-facility, personal expense (e.g. credit cards, cable, utility bills, etc.) without discussing these payments with the Facility as some of these bills may not be covered by Medicaid and may result in excess personal obligations due in excess of the Resident’s resources.

Facility Services INCLUDED in the Daily Medicaid Rate

1. Semi-private, except when a private suite is required for therapeutic reasons.
2. Dietary services including meals, snacks, therapeutic diets, and supplemental diets as ordered.
3. Basic personal laundry services to include machine washing and tumble drying resident clothing.
4. Housekeeping and maintenance services to ensure a clean, safe, and comfortable environment.
5. 24-hour professional nursing services to meet the needs of the resident including assist with cares, routine restorative therapy, and medication administration.
6. Basic personal need items needed to maintain personal health, hygiene, and cleanliness such as soap, razors, deodorants, toothpaste, shaving cream, denture cleaner and adhesive, moisturizing lotion, towels, washcloths, hospital gowns, and incontinent pads.  If different brands than those provided by the facility are desired, their cost will be the responsibility of the resident.
7. Hair care needs such as routine shampooing, shampoo, conditioner, combs, and brushes.
8. Administration of Resident Trust Funds as requested.
9. All nursing supplies ordered by the attending physician that are not otherwise covered by a third party payment program.
10. Activities unless otherwise noted.
11. Social services to address the emotional, psychological, and spiritual needs of the resident.
12. Assistance in obtaining dental, podiatric, optometric, and other services.
13. Transportation to medical provider.
14. Quarterly resident care planning.
15. Up to two whirlpool baths with routine hair care needs such as routine shampooing, shampoo, and conditioner
16. Cable Service

Services NOT INCLUDED in the Daily Medicaid Rate

1. Special care services not therapeutically required such as special duty nurses, private suite, or special food.
2. Special brands of supplies other than those provided by the facility.
3. Beautician and barber services such as hair sets, coloring, permanents, etc…
4. Personal clothing
5. Dry Cleaning
6. Specialized equipment for exclusive personal use
7. Legal services
8. Television  for personal use
9. Telephones and radios for personal use
10. Social and entertainment services and materials outside the scope of the activities program
11. Postal services such as stamps and other postage
12. Personal comfort items such as candy, novelties, flowers, plants, personal suite decorations, etc…
13. Gifts purchased on behalf of the resident
14. Newspaper delivery

Pets

The facility has a no pet policy without the express written consent of the facility.

Physician Services

Federal Regulation Guidelines require that a Medicare A resident must be seen by a physician at least once every thirty days for the first ninety days after admission, and at least once every sixty days thereafter.  A Medicaid resident must also be seen for a physical once a year.  If the resident/family refuses a required physician visit, a waiver must be signed by the resident/ resident representative and their physician every thirty or sixty days as applicable.  If you have questions regarding this, please see the Director of Nursing.

Private Pay

Facility Services INCLUDED in the Daily Private Pay Rate:

1. Suite including a bed, dresser, sink, toilet, and basic cable service (channels 2-22).
2. Dietary services including meals, snacks, therapeutic diets, and supplemental diets as ordered, excluding supplements.
3. Basic personal laundry services to include machine washing and tumble-drying resident clothing (does not including ironing).
4. Housekeeping and maintenance services to ensure a clean, safe, and comfortable environment.
5. Nursing services to meet the needs of the resident including assist with ADL’s.
6. Some of the basic personal need items needed to maintain personal health, hygiene, and cleanliness such as soap, towels, washcloths, hospital gowns, and bed linens.  If different brands than those provided by the facility are desired, their cost will be the responsibility of the resident.
7. Up to two whirlpool baths with routine hair care needs such as routine shampooing, shampoo, and conditioner.
8. Administration of Resident Trust Funds as requested.
9. Activities unless otherwise noted.
10. Social services to address the emotional, psychological, and spiritual needs of the resident.
11. Assistance in obtaining dental, podiatric, optometric, and other services.
12. 24-hour professional nursing care.
13. Routine restorative nursing as ordered.
14. Medication administration.
15. Quarterly resident care planning.

16. Cable Service

Fees and other services are outlined in the Statement of Rates and Ancillary Charges.

The facility fees and charges may be amended by the facility with notice to the resident to reflect changes in costs.

Services NOT INCLUDED in the Daily Private Rate

Below is a partial list of items not included in the daily rate.  See the Statement of Rates and Ancillary Charges for more detail.

1. Special care services not therapeutically required such as special duty nurses, private suite, or special food requests.
2. Special brands of supplies other than those provided by the facility.
3. Beautician and barber services such as hair sets, coloring, permanents, etc…
4. Personal clothing.
5. Dry Cleaning.
6. Ironing.
7. Wheelchair or other specialized equipment for exclusive personal use.
8. Legal services.
9. Television for personal use.
10. Telephones and radios for personal use.
11. Social and entertainment services and materials outside the scope of the activities program.
12. Postal services such as stamps and other postage.
13. Personal comfort items such as candy, cosmetics, novelties, flowers, plants, personal suite decorations, etc…
14. Gifts purchased on behalf of the resident.
15. Newspaper delivery.

Note:  In addition, Medicare and Medicaid residents shall receive all services and supplies required to be provided by the facility as a certified Medicare/Medicaid facility.

The resident and/or their representative are required to contact the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services Office to initiate Medicaid coverage as needed.  In the event that Medicaid does not approve a resident for Medicaid coverage, the resident and/or their representative is responsible for payment for the services provided based upon the private pay rates listed.  The facility will be glad to assist you in contacting the Medicare or Medicaid agencies

Resident Responsibilities

The resident and/or their representative is responsible for:

1. Providing, to the best of their knowledge, accurate, and complete information about present complaints, past illnesses, hospitalizations, medications, and other matters relating to the resident’s health. Should there be sensitive information that the resident wishes be kept confidential, they are responsible for informing the Administrator or Director of Nursing.
2. Reporting changes in the resident’s condition to the center staff.
3. Making it known whether they clearly comprehend a course of action and what is expected of them, as well as any concerns about their ability to comply with the proposed course.
4. Following the treatment plan recommended by the physician and the instructions of nurses and health professionals as they coordinate your plan of care and implement the physician’s orders, and as they enforce the applicable facility policies and regulations.
5. Understanding the consequences of treatment alternatives and of not following the proposed course of treatment. They accept responsibility for their actions if they refuse treatment or do not follow the instructions of the physician or health professionals.
6. Following facility policies and regulations affecting their care and conduct and as outlined in this handbook.
7. Being considerate and courteous of other residents and staff members.
8. Respecting the rights and property of others including staff, other residents, and the facility by not behaving in a manner that would jeopardize the health or well-being of others and conducting themselves in a manner that respects the peace, quiet, and privacy of the other residents and their families. They should be considerate of noise levels, numbers of visitors at one time in a resident’s suite, smoking-free environment, and observing the privacy rights of others, including their roommate.
9. Providing the facility with a copy of the resident’s advance directives when/if they execute one.
10. Maintaining the standards outlined in the Admission and Financial Agreement.

Note:  If a resident has been adjudicated incompetent in accordance with law, found medically incapable by his or her physician of understanding these responsibilities, or exhibits a communication barrier, then their guardian or next of kin, or other legally authorized responsible person assumes these responsibilities for the resident.

Residents Rights

It is the policy of the facility to uphold the rights of all residents outlined in the Resident Rights book.  The resident has the right to exercise these rights without interference, coercion, discrimination, and/or reprisal.

Resident Trust Fund

Upon written authorization by the resident or resident representative, the facility may hold, safeguard, manage, and account for the personal funds of the resident deposited with the facility.  Funds in excess of $50.00 will be deposited into an interest bearing account separate from any facility operating accounts and funds less than $50 would be deposited in a non-interest bearing account.  Records and accounting of such funds will be separate from the facilities and other residents and the resident will receive a quarterly statement of the account.  If you are interested in the resident trust fund, please contact the Business Office Manager.

The Salon

The facility van service can be utilized for hair appointments if you desire to continue to use your beautician/barber in the community.  For your convenience, we have a Salon on the campus located in The Plaza.  If you are interested in utilizing these services, please call the Business Office.  The beautician will be available on Wednesday from 8-4.  The beautician will bill you directly for the services she delivers to each resident.  Families can use the salon for resident use when it is not in use by the beautician and they have to provide their own equipment.

Sign Out

Residents and their guests are urged to sign out at nurses office when leaving the facility and sign in upon returning.  When you are going to be gone overnight or longer, please notify the nurses office.

Smoking

The facility maintains a tobacco-free campus for the preservation and protection of the health of our residents, employees, and visitors.  As a result, the use of tobacco products (cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, pipes, and similar tobacco products) is prohibited inside and outside of the buildings at the campus.  This includes but is not limited to all buildings, grounds, parking lots and adjoining sidewalks to the community.

 

Smoke Detectors And Fire Sprinklers

Resident will not tamper with smoke detectors provided by the facility and will inform management if resident is aware that a smoke detector provided by the facility is not functioning properly.

 

Snow

It is the policy of the facility that when it snows, the snow shall be removed and salt applied to the employee entrances first, followed by the main lobby entrances.  The parking lots will be next followed by all other entrances and areas.  The facility makes every effort to be timely with snow removal but asks for your cooperation and patience in this time-consuming process.

It is the policy of the facility that when it snows, the snow shall be removed and salt applied to the employee entrances first, followed by the main lobby entrances.  The parking lots will be next followed by all other entrances and areas.  The facility makes every effort to be timely with snow removal but asks for your cooperation and patience in this time-consuming process.

 

The facility reserves the right to cancel van service in the event of snow and/or ice to protect the safety of the residents.   We encourage residents to exercise great caution in such inclement conditions and leave the facility only if it’s an emergency

 

Social and Recreational Services

A full schedule of group and individual social, spiritual, and recreational activities both in and out of the facility are planned, provided, and/or arranged for the residents free of cost unless otherwise noted.  A schedule of these activities will be posted.  The additional cost of an event ticket(s) or class materials will be published in advance and will be paid for by the individual participants.  All activities and programs are strictly optional although we do encourage participation for residents to obtain the full physical, mental, and emotional benefits.

 

Social Services

The role of the Social Services department is to be a resident advocate and promoter of Resident’s Rights.  The department is available to assist residents and their families with discharge planning, financial and legal matters, and in meeting their mental, emotional, and psychosocial needs.

 

Solicitation

No soliciting is allowed.  If you are solicited by a salesperson in the building, please contact the office.

 

Students

Being genuinely interested in the advancement and education of individuals, the facility has partnered with local colleges to provide internships and clinical site experience.  As a result, you may at times note students in various departments learning from the supervision and input of our qualified employees.

 

Suggestions/Grievances

The facility encourages residents, families, and other interested parties to present to management constructive suggestions for the improvement of any area of its operations.  There is a suggestion box located in the lobby You may also file a grievance or complaint without the fear or threat of reprisal.

 

You may file an oral or written grievance concerning any aspect of the care or operations of the facility by completing and submitting the Grievance Report to the facility Administrator.  The Grievance Report may be obtained from the nurses station or social services.  In the event the grievance would be filed during the night or on a weekend/holiday, the staff will forward the grievance to the facility Administrator or their designee on the next working day.

 

Anonymous grievances shall be brought to the attention of the facility Administrator and addressed to the best of their ability.  Unfortunately, these grievances do not have the advantage of being able to ask for clarifying information.  As a result, individuals are encouraged but not required to identify themselves when surfacing concerns or grievances.

 

The facility Administrator is responsible for the timely investigation of all grievances within five working days of receipt according to the facility policy.  The individual filing the grievance will be informed of the findings of the investigation and the actions that will be taken to correct any identified problems within ten working days of the filing of the grievance or complaint with the facility.

 

All grievances are to be held in strict confidence if possible and will only be discussed with individuals involved in the investigation of the grievance.

 

Should the individual filing the grievance not be satisfied with the results of the investigation or the recommended actions, they may file a complaint with the following:

 

Company President: Russ Peterson

2230 Somers

Fremont, Nebraska  68025

(402) 721-9224

 

Long-term Care Ombudsman                                     State Health Department.

Nebraska Department on Aging                               State Office Building, 3^rd floor

P.O. Box 95044                                                301 Centennial Mall South

Lincoln, Nebraska  68509                                                   P.O. Box 95007

(800) 942-7830                                                Lincoln, Nebraska  68509-5009

(402) 471-2133

Survey Results

Any individual has the right to examine the results of the most recent survey by the Nebraska Department of Health or Federal surveyors and any plan of correction in effect with respect to the facility.  This information is posted in The Plaza.  If you have any questions, please contact the facility Administrator.

 

Sweet Shop

The Sweet  Shop, located in The Plaza, offers  cappuccino, coffee and ice cream for resident and family enjoyment.  Please take single servings so all can enjoy.

 

Telephone Service

A public telephone is available for resident use.  There is no charge for local calls and long distance calls will be billed to the resident.  If you are interested in obtaining phone service in your suite at your cost, please contact the facility Social Services department.  There will be a phone for the hearing impaired in the library. 

 

Television Cable

Basic cable service is available to you, free of charge (Channels 2-22).  Premium packages can be purchased.  If you are interested in obtaining cable service in your suite, please contact the Social Services department.  In addition, the televisions in the common areas are also available to watch the cable television channels.

 

Terrace Rooms

Our Terrace Rooms, located off the Plaza, can accommodate 250 people and may be reserved by residents.  The areas are also available for public rental per the fee schedule.  See also Club/Organizational Meetings and Personal Parties.

 

Therapy

The facility has 2400 square foot gym with an aquatic pool where licensed therapists that can work with you and your physician to develop a customized rehabilitations program to meet your individual needs.  Therapy may include physical, occupational, and/or speech therapy on an in or outpatient basis.  If you are interested in therapy services or are having increased difficulty or are having surgery, please contact the nursing staff. See also Wellness.

 

Tipping/Gifts/Gratuities/Loans

It is the policy of the facility to strictly prohibit employees from accepting tips, gifts, gratuities, and/or loans for any of the services offered or provided.  Employees have been instructed not to accept these things.  We ask you to help us enforce this policy by not offering tips to our employees.

 

Tornado/Storm Instructions

Facility personnel will direct and guide residents to the designated areas as able.  Remain in the designated safe area until the ALL CLEAR is announced.

 

Transportation

The facility has transportation available to transport residents to and from doctor appointments per the fee outlined in the Statement of Rates and Ancillary Charges.  Complimentary transportation between Nye campuses is provided. We request families assist us in providing transportation for residents or attending the appointment with the resident to offer reassurance and support.

 

Valuables

The facility discourages keeping valuables or large sums of money at the facility and that money, jewelry, and other valuables should be given to my family/responsible party or may be locked in the Business Office for safekeeping.  The resident understands that the facility will not be responsible for any valuables or money left at the facility in the resident’s possession and is not responsible for any lost, stolen, or misplaced items.

 

Visiting Hours

Visitors are always welcome, but we encourage visiting between the hours of 8a.m. to 8p.m.  If your visitors cannot come during the times noted, please make arrangements for staff regarding access to the building.

Wellness

The facility encourages residents to maintain an independent, healthy lifestyle as long as possible.  Wellness of mind, body, and spirit is the goal of the facility so activities and programs are designed to create a positive sense of physical, mental, AND emotional well-being and to enhance self-growth.  This is accomplished by encouraging residents to maintain and increase their physical, mental, and emotional condition by participating in the wide variety of programs offered in and out of the facility.  See also Therapy.

 

Privacy Act Notification Statement/Long Term Minimum Data Set

The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is authorized to collect these data by Sections 1819(f), 1919(f), 1819(b) (3) (A), and 1864 of the Social Security Act.  The purpose of this data collection is to aid in the administration of the survey and certification of Medicare/Medicaid long-term care facilities and to study the effectiveness and quality of care given in those facilities.  This system will also support regulatory, amount of personal data needed to accomplish its stated purpose.

 

The information collected will be entered into the Long Term Care Minimum Set (LTC MDS) system of records, System No. 09-70-1516.  Information from this system may be disclosed, under specific circumstances, to (1) a congressional office from the record of an individual in response to an inquiry from the congressional made at the request of that individual; (2)  the Bureau of Census; (3) the Department of Justice; (4) an individual or organization for research, evaluation, or epidemiological project related to the prevention of disease of disability, or the research of health; (5) contractors working for CMS to carry out Medicare/Medicaid functions, collating or analyzing data, or to detect fraud or abuse; (6) an agency of a State government for purposes of determining, evaluating, and/or assessing overall of aggregate costs, effectiveness, and/or quality of health care services provided in the State; (7) another Federal agency to fulfill a requirement of a Federal statute that implements a health benefits program funded in whole or in part with Federal funds or to detect fraud or abuse; (8) Peer Review Organizations to perform Title XI or Title XVIII functions; (9) another entity that makes payment for or oversees administration of health care services for preventing fraud or abuse under specific conditions.

 

You should be aware that P.L. 100-53, the Computer Matching and Privacy protection Act of 1988, permits the government to verify information by the way of computer matches.

 

Collection of the Social Security Number is voluntary; however, failure to provide this information may result in the loss of Medicare benefits provided by the nursing home.  The Social Security Number will be used to verify the association of information to the appropriate individual.

 

Notice of Health Information Practices

Effective April 14, 2003  This notice describes how information about you may be used and disclosed and how you can get access to this information. Please review it carefully.

 

Understanding Your Health Record/Information

Each time you visit a hospital, physician, or other health care provider, a record of your visit is made. Typically, this record contains your symptoms, examination and test results, diagnoses, treatment, and a plan for future care or treatment. This information, often referred to as your health or medical record, serves as a:

• basis for planning your care and treatment
• means of communication among the many health professionals who contribute to your care
• legal document describing the care you received
• means by which you or a third-party payer can verify that services billed were actually provided
• a tool in educating heath professionals
• a source of data for medical research
• a source of information for public health officials charged with improving the health of the nation
• a source of data for facility planning and marketing
• a tool with which we can assess and continually work to improve the care we render and the outcomes we achieve
• understanding what is in your record and how your health information is used helps you to ensure its accuracy; better understand who, what, when, where, and why others may access your health information; and make more informed decisions when authorizing disclosure to others

 

Your Health Information Rights

Although your health record is the physical property of the health care practitioner or facility that compiled it, the information belongs to you. You have the right to:

• request a restriction on certain uses and disclosures of your information as provided by 45 CFR 164.522
• obtain a paper copy of the notice of information practices upon request
• inspect and obtain a copy of your health record as provided for in 45 CFR 164.524
• amend your health record as provided in 45 CFR 164.528
• obtain an accounting of disclosures of your health information as provided in 45 CFR 164.528
• request communications of your health information by alternative means or at alternative locations
• revoke your authorization to use or disclose health information except to the extent that action has already been taken

 

 

 

Our Responsibilities

This organization is required to:

• protect the confidentiality of your health information
• provide you with a notice as to our legal duties and privacy practices with respect to information we collect and maintain about you
• abide by the terms of this notice
• notify you if we are unable to agree to a requested restriction
• accommodate reasonable requests you may have to communicate health information by alternative means or at alternative locations

 

We reserve the right to change our practices and to make the new provisions effective for all protected health information we maintain. Should our information practices change, we will mail a revised notice to the address you’ve supplied us.

We will not use or disclose your health information without your authorization, except as described in this notice.

 

For More Information or to Report a Problem

If have questions and would like additional information, you may contact the Administrator or Director of Social Services at the facility.

 

If you believe your privacy rights have been violated, you can file a grievance with the Administrator or Director of Social Services or with the secretary of Health and Human Services. There will be no retaliation for filing a complaint.

 

Examples of Disclosures for Treatment, Payment and Health Operations

Below are examples of how your health information may be used.  It is not intended to be all-inclusive but rather examples of typical uses of that information.  Specific questions should be directed to the Administrator or Social Services Designee of the facility.

 

1. We will use your health information for treatment.

For example: Information obtained by a nurse, physician, or other member of your health care team will be recorded in your record and used to determine the course of treatment that should work best for you. Your physician will document in your record his or her expectations of the members of your health care team. Members of your health care team will then record the actions they took and their observations. In that way, the physician will know how you are responding to treatment. Information may be provided to your physician by phone, fax, or photocopies.

 

We will also provide your physician or a subsequent health care provider with copies of various reports that should assist him or her in treating you.

 

2. We will use your health information for payment.

For example: A bill may be sent to you or a third-party payer. The information on or accompanying the bill may include information that identifies you, as well as your diagnosis, procedures, and supplies used.

 

3. We will use your health information for regular health operations.

For example: Members of the medical staff, the risk or quality assurance manager, or members of the quality assurance team may use information in your health record to assess the care and outcomes in your case and others like it. This information will then be used in an effort to continually improve the quality and effectiveness of the health care and service we provide.

 

Business associates: There are some services provided in our organization through contacts with business associates. Examples include physician services in the emergency department and radiology, certain laboratory tests, and a copy service we use when making copies of your health record. When these services are contracted, we may disclose your health information to our business associate so that they can perform the job we’ve asked them to do and bill you or your third-party payer for services rendered. To protect your health information, however, we require the business associate to appropriately safeguard your information.

 

Directory: Unless you notify us that you object, we will use your name, location in the facility, general condition, and religious affiliation for directory purposes. This information may be provided to members of the clergy and, except for religious affiliation, to other people who ask for you by name. Your name will be posted next to your door and on the facility directory, unless you notify us that you object.  Pictures may be taken to be placed in the medication administration record

 

Notification: We may use or disclose information to notify or assist in notifying a family member, personal representative, or another person responsible for your care, your location, and general condition.

 

Communication with family: Health professionals, using their best judgment, may disclose to a family member, other relative, close personal friend or any other person you identify, health information relevant to that person’s involvement in your care or payment related to your care.

 

Research: We may disclose information to researchers when their research has been approved by an institutional review board that has reviewed the research proposal and established protocols to ensure the privacy of your health information.

 

Funeral directors: We may disclose health information to funeral directors consistent with applicable law to carry out their duties.

 

Organ procurement organizations: Consistent with applicable law, we may disclose health information to organ procurement organizations or other entities engaged in the procurement, banking, or transplantation of organs for the purpose of tissue donation and transplant.

 

Marketing: We may contact you to provide or information about treatment alternatives or other health-related benefits and services that may be of interest to you. The facility distributes a newsletter on a monthly basis and we may include personal history with birth date, unless you notify us that you object.

 

Fund raising: We may contact you as part of a fund-raising effort.

 

Food and Drug Administration (FDA): We may disclose to the FDA health information relative to adverse events with respect to food, supplements, product and product defects, or post marketing surveillance information to enable product recalls, repairs, or replacement.

 

Workers’ compensation: We may disclose health information to the extent authorized by and to the extent necessary to comply with laws relating to workers compensation or other similar programs established by law.

 

Public health: As required by law, we may disclose your health information to public health or legal authorities charged with preventing or controlling disease, injury, or disability.

 

Law enforcement: We may disclose health information for law enforcement purposes as required by law or in response to a valid subpoena.

 

Federal law makes provision for your health information to be released to an appropriate health oversight agency, public health authority or attorney, provided that a work force member or business associate believes in good faith that we have engaged in unlawful conduct or have otherwise violated professional or clinical standards and are potentially endangering one or more patients, workers or the public.

 

The following uses and disclosures may not require authorization, or the opportunity to agree or object:

1. Uses and Disclosures Required by Law
2. Uses and Disclosures for Public Health Activities
3. Disclosures about Victims of Abuse, Neglect or Domestic Violence
4. Uses and Disclosures for Health Oversight Activities
5. Disclosures for Judicial and Administrative Proceedings
6. Disclosures for Law Enforcement Purposes
7. Uses and Disclosures about Decedents
8. Uses and Disclosures for Cadaveric Organ, Eye or Tissue Donation Purposes
9. Uses and Disclosures for Research Purposes
10. Uses and Disclosures to Avert a Serious Threat to Health or Safety
11. Uses and Disclosures for Specialized Government Functions
12. Disclosures for Workers’ Compensation

 

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy your stay with us.  If you have any questions regarding these guidelines or anything else, please do not hesitate to contact the facility Administrator or any member of our staff.