What factors determine the resident selection for dining assistance?

The selection of residents for dining assistance is primarily determined by the charge nurse assessment and the plan of care. This is because the charge nurse is responsible for evaluating each resident's individual needs in terms of their physical, emotional, and nutritional health. The assessment considers various factors such as mobility, cognitive function, and any specific medical conditions that might influence a resident's ability to eat independently.

The plan of care, developed based on this assessment, outlines the required support for each resident, ensuring that they receive appropriate and safe assistance during mealtime. This systematic approach prioritizes individual care rather than subjective measures like personal requests or family preferences, which may not encompass the comprehensive health needs of the resident. By relying on professional assessments, facilities can ensure that residents receive the necessary dining support tailored to their specific needs.

In contrast, personal requests and family preferences, while important for overall satisfaction, do not directly determine the clinical need for assistance, and the length of stay is not an assessment factor for dining assistance since it does not reflect a resident's individual capabilities or health status.