Currently, no federal law exists to name the exact number of staff a nursing home must have. However, it does state that nursing homes must have enough staff to care for residents with reasonable safety.
Nursing homes report staff hours to Medicare, and there are types of caregivers every facility should have on staff.
Nurses and aides
Every operational nursing home must have at least one registered nurse for a minimum of eight hours per day, seven days a week. They also need an RN or licensed practical or vocational nurse on duty at all times.
RNs provide overall care to the residents, and LPNs/LVNs work with RNs to ensure they meet the needs of each resident according to their individual care plan.
Certified nurse aides are also important staff members, working under the direction of an RN to assist residents with their daily activities.
Physical therapists
Most nursing homes have PTs to help residents improve activity levels and manage pain. They often work with the resident’s medical team to create personalized therapy plans that will restore movement and improve their overall well-being.
Administration staff
Every nursing home must have a state-licensed administrator to manage the entire facility. They supervise administrative and clinical affairs, performing tasks like overseeing resident care, addressing financial matters, ensuring staff has medical supplies and any other task required to run a nursing home.
Facilities report staffing hours to Medicare per resident. The reports show an average of time spent with residents without specifics about the quality of care they receive, but it helps ensure sufficient staffing.