Staff should be trained properly on what should and should not go into communication logs. Staff is often required to show they have been reading the communication logs. It is done by initialing the entry, or with computers, clicking on “read”. After months and years of reading similar and often repetitive enteries, it is easy for group home support staff to not even “see” what they just read. Often staff will glance and either initial the page or click “read” on internet communication logs (like Therap) right before they leave their shift.
Proper communication log entries are important for the following reasons:
- It is a legal document
- Medication errors can be avoided with proper communication of changes
- Behaviors reduced if next shift is aware of any issues resident had during previous shifts
- Increased adherence to work schedule changes
- Decrease in missed appointments
- Promptness in following changes
Ways to verify staff is really reading communication logs:
- Give a prize/be entered in a drawing when they answer questions regarding com log entries correctly
- Question individually on com log entries regularly
- Follow up that instructions/tasks were followed promptly
Try the following suggestions to keep group home communication log entries interesting and encourage reading of communication log entries at group homes:
- Include company updates and activities
- 1-3 times per week include short reviews from training classes, policy and procedures, and provider manuals
- Acknowledge the good works of staff
Sometimes no matter what you do, staff will not read communication log entries or enter information. Let staff know ahead of time when you expect the problem to be corrected (give a specific date) and follow through. If the problem is not corrected you may need to follow up with a verbal warning or write up so that the group home support staff employed in your group home will know you are serious.
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