Make sure that your family member gets outside for sun and fresh air on a regular basis. Be careful that the CNAs don't take him or her out to the patio and dump them there because of the chance of severe sunburn. In general, let the facility know that you are watching them and that you know what they are required to do. Don't be afraid to let them know that you are aware of the state and federal regulations and expect the facility to follow them. Watch for any signs of pneumonia or other infectious diseases such as staph or scabies because infection control is usually poor in many nursing homes.
Nursing homes are often reluctant to call doctors until symptoms become serious.
It is important for you to insist on a doctor's diagnosis before the problem becomes life threatening. Older, bedridden residents have a harder time recovering from illnesses if they are not treated promptly. If you believe that your family member is in a life threatening situation, insist that the nurses call an ambulance for the emergency room. If they refuse, dial 911 and get an ambulance yourself. Family members in trouble can die while you argue with a reluctant nursing staff or if you are waiting for a doctor to call back.