Admissions Procedure
Clients interested in coming to Downs Cottage Care Home are encouraged to visit the home and sample the atmosphere and level of service. Often day-care is arranged on a regular weekly basis while waiting for a vacancy. This gives the client time to get to know the staff and adjust to new people and surroundings.
Where possible, admission takes place following an assessment by the Matron/Manager or her deputy and is subject to bed availability. Should the assessment indicate that the level of care needed is high, this will be discussed with the client and relatives before admission.
Payment details are agreed with the resident prior to admission, usually by the accounts department.
The identity of the resident's allocated "named nurse" is made known to them and their relatives at an early stage in the admission procedure.
If the admitting nurse is not the named nurse then arrangements are made to introduce the named nurse at the earliest opportunity.
The resident will be shown to his/her own room and will be given time to make themselves comfortable. They will be introduced to staff and fellow patients and given a tour around the home to provide orientation and familiarity.
They will be advised of meal times, visiting arrangements, care of property and all other information to ease the transition into the home environment. Every assistance will be given to answer any questions they may have.
A month’s trial period is always given before taking permanent residency.