We go above 
and beyond

This comment is directed specifically to Mr. Raccuglia.

You were right about one statement you made, and that was that you were naive when it comes to the care that is given to the residents in most nursing homes. While I’ll admit there are some homes that are lacking, that is usually the exception and not the rule.

I have been a CNA for more than 20 years, and I know that I am the first line of defense for my residents. If I see something out of the ordinary, I report it right away to my nurse. If for some reason something wasn’t done, if I had to, I would go over their heads and report it to my director of nursing. But, I’ve never had to because they pretty much know that I understand what I’m talking about. I would not let any resident suffer or come to harm. I have always taken pride in my job and the way I treat my residents.

I also admit there are times when we have to medicate a resident, and not because, as you put it, “so they can be easily handled, or as a convenience to the attendants,” But so they don’t become a danger to themselves or the other residents. And that is always a last resort. We first try re-direction and then de-escalation techniques.

I like to think that myself and my fellow aides and staff here at Orchard View Rehab and Health Care Center go above and beyond when it comes to the care of our residents. Mr. Raccuglia, I offer you an open invitation to come and see me and how we treat our residents. I can honestly say I enjoy coming to my job each and every day. I actually look forward to it. Can you say the same about your job, Mr. Raccuglia?

Keith “Klink” Klinefelter

Wyanet