Alleviate some of your workforce challenges by training staff and volunteers to become feeding assistants. Overall health is greatly improved when residents are able to maintain good nutrition. AHCA's easy-to-use training manual provides important background information and practical exercises. Topics covered in this timely resource include feeding and hydration techniques, safety and emergency procedures, communication and interpersonal skills, and infection prevention and control.
As a reminder, CMS has modified the requirements at 42 CFR 483.60(h)(1)(i) and 42 CFR 483.160(a)regarding required training of paid feeding assistants. Specifically, CMS has reduced its minimum training time requirement from eight hours to one hour. CMS has not waived any other requirements under 42 CFR §483.60(h) related to paid feeding assistants or the required training content at 42 CFR §483.160(a)(1)-(8), which contains infection control training and other elements. Additionally, CMS has also not waived or modified the requirements at 42 CFR §483.60(h)(2)(i), which requires that a feeding assistant must work under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN) or licensed practical nurse (LPN).
Any new feeding assistant training programs must email the DPH at nars@state.ma.us and attest that they meet all of the state and federal requirements for a feeding assistant training program before operating and complete the standard attestation form.