A dedicated approach to restorative nursing.

This study was conducted to determine whether a dedicated restorative nursing program fostered improvement in residents' functional status and quality of life. Restorative nursing assistants were selected, provided with special training, and under RN supervision, were solely responsible for the delivery of restorative care. The dedicated program was provided to 50 residents in a long-term care facility. Data were gathered using the Minimum Data Set, which measures activities of daily living, continence, and mood status in long-term care facilities. The data parameters included functional status and depression. The results indicated that a dedicated restorative program did foster improvement in some areas of functional ability. Dedicated restorative nursing staff were able to complete assignments in an efficient, timely manner and document results. The program led to more consistent care delivery and a higher quality of care.