This book provides a detailed rationale for the creation of ombudsman offices; suggestions for structuring and documenting an ombudsman program and how to address issues that arise in litigation; a comprehensive presentation of various legal issues associated with organizational ombudsman programs;and numerous examples of how ombudsmen function in their organizations to illustrate how they are effective in addressing issues that people would not otherwise raise.
As more people live longer, the need for quality long-term care for the elderly will increase dramatically. This volume examines the current system of nursing home regulations, and proposes an overhaul to better provide for those confined to such facilities. It determines the need for regulations, and concludes that the present regulatory system is inadequate, stating that what is needed is not more regulation, but better regulation. This long-anticipated study provides a wealth of useful background information, in-depth study, and discussion for nursing home administrators, students, and teachers in the health care field; professionals involved in caring for the elderly; and geriatric specialists.
"Many people and organizations do not understand what organizational ombuds are and how they work. They want to know what value these programs really add, and they frequently express skepticism about ombuds' claim of confidentiality and how these programs can operate independently within an organization when an ombuds may be an employee of the organization. This book is a practical guide for those who have questions such as these about organizational ombuds programs and how they operate"--
Public and private organizations can benefit from the creation and implementation of an ombudsman program designed to problem-solve at the organizational level. This timely book presents the ombudsman in concept and in practice, offering full design and operational details from start-up to key activities and roles, as well as the benefits for the top executives, the employees and the customers. Case studies from numerous fields are examined to illustrate how a strong ombudsman program is vital to avoiding litigation, resolving conflicts and assisting management.
Understand the legal framework that provides the structure of Nursing! This is the only current text to critically examine the vast array of legal and ethical matters confronting nursing faculty in classroom and clinical settings. Designed to assist students preparing to be nurse educators, academic nursing administrators, and novice and seasoned faculty in making real-life decisions about academic issues within a legal and ethical framework. Replete with practical advice from experts in the fields of nursing, law, and ethics, this text guides the reader through legal and ethical principles, analyses of relevant case-based scenarios, and practical recommendations for handling problems in accordance with existing laws and institutional policy. Clearly and concisely written and organized, this text provides a comprehensive description of the legal process, including higher education law, the courts, case law, the role of a university attorney, and how to read and cite judicial decisions. Real-world case scenarios and detailed analyses of pertinent issues, including coverage of incivility, discrimination, harassment, academic dishonesty, and freedom of speech, are examined from the perspective of students, faculty, and administrators. Key Features: Written by a nursing dean, a former nursing dean, an ethicist, and a higher education attorney An entire section of legal and ethical cases, featuring a unique philosophical and ethical perspective Delivers best practices for nursing faculty Provides tips on when to consult the university attorney, critical elements to consider, actions to take when law and ethics conflict, helpful resources, and a glossary of legal terms An Instructor’s Manual and discussion questions facilitate teaching.
In this report, "Care and compassion?" the Health Service Ombudsman says the NHS is failing to treat older people with care, compassion, dignity and respect. The report is based on the findings of ten independent investigations into complaints about NHS care for people over the age of 65 across England. It serves to illuminate the gulf between the principles and values of the NHS Constitution and the felt reality of being an older person in the care of the NHS in England. The Ombudsman's findings show how ten older patients suffered unnecessary pain, indignity and distress while in the care of the NHS. Her investigations highlight common failures in pain control, discharge arrangements, communication with patients and their relatives and ensuring adequate nutrition. These are not isolated cases. Of the nearly 9,000 properly made complaints to the Ombudsman about the NHS last year, 18 per cent were about the care of older people. The Ombudsman accepted twice as many cases for investigation about older people as for all other age groups put together. The findings reveal an attitude - both personal and institutional - which fails to recognise the humanity and individuality of the people concerned and to respond to them with sensitivity, compassion and professionalism. These accounts present a picture of NHS provision that is failing to meet even the most basic standards of care. The NHS must close the gap between the promise of care and compassion outlined in its Constitution and the injustice that many older people experience.
