A.M. Care (Early Morning Care) 

Purpose: 

• To refresh the resident. 

• To provide cleanliness, comfort, and neatness. 

• To prepare the resident for breakfast, if they choose to receive a.m. care prior to breakfast. 

• To promote psychosocial well-being. 

Equipment: 

• Provon 3-in-1 product or equivalent cleansing agent. 

• Washcloth. 

• Briefs and incontinence products, if necessary. 

• Bedpan and toilet tissue if needed. 

• Toothpaste and toothbrush. 

• Glass of water. 

• Mouthwash (if applicable). 

• Comb or hairbrush. 

Procedure: 

1. Awakening the Resident: 

• Quietly awaken the resident if this is the resident’s/family’s preference. 

2. Toileting: 

• Offer a bedpan and toilet paper or take the resident to the bathroom. 

• Assist with toileting needs, ensuring dignity and privacy. 

3. Oral Care: 

• Allow the residents to brush their teeth or dentures if able. 

• If the resident is unable, assist in brushing their teeth or dentures using toothpaste and a toothbrush. 

• Offer mouthwash if the resident wants and can use it. 

4. Washing: 

• Use the Provon product or equivalent to cleanse the resident’s hands and face. 

• Provide a washcloth for additional cleansing if necessary. 

5. Bed and Linen Care: 

• Straighten and/or change all bed linen, blankets, and spread as needed. 

• Ensure the bed is neat and comfortable for the resident. 

6. Incontinence Care: 

• Provide incontinence care as needed, ensuring the resident is clean and dry. 

5. Comfort and Positioning: 

• Position the resident comfortably in bed or a chair. 

• Ensure the call light is within easy reach of the resident. 

7. Preparation for Meals: 

• Prepare the bedside stand to receive breakfast if the resident prefers to eat in bed. 

• Assist the resident to the dining room if this is their preference. 

8. Ensuring Comfort and Safety: 

• Leave the bedside area clean and ensure the resident is comfortable. 

• Assure the resident has all necessary equipment within reach, such as telephone, remote control, tissues, phone, walker, etc. 

9. Reporting: 

• Observe and report any unusual or abnormal conditions and symptoms to the charge nurse immediately. 

Compliance and Documentation: 

• Ensure all care activities are documented in the resident’s care plan. 

• Adhere to CMS guidelines and Requirements of Participation, ensuring that care provided aligns with regulatory standards. 

• Maintain a record of any reported conditions and actions taken for review and continuous quality improvement. 

References: 

• Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). State Operations Manual (SOM), Appendix PP - Guidance to Surveyors for Long Term Care Facilities. 

• CMS Requirements of Participation for Nursing Homes.