[najida]

There was an incident in this state about 6 or so years ago where a relatively young, but disabled resident was outside smoking on a warm, windy spring day and staff member was outside with him.

Anyhow, the cigarrette was blow from his hand and landed in a wad of kleenex, papers etc that was stuffed beside him in the chair.

From what I gather, all the conditions were perfect- wind, flamable materials and clothes-- and he went up like a torch before the aid could react.

The regs now in the state specify that if smoking is allowed, it must be done in a safe area, with fire detection and sprinklers, ventilation and most of all, staff supervision.

I think just about every home in this town allows smoking, just in very defined parameters of time, location and staff assistance.

[SheLion]

I think just about every home in this town allows smoking, just in very defined parameters of time, location and staff assistance.

Well, maybe that's how it should be.  At least they still allow the old folks to relax and smoke. 

I knew someone once who was in a rehab hospital.  The smokers each morning were given 10 cigarettes from their packs.  They would only be allowed to smoke in the day room once an hour.  If they smoked two cigarettes in that hour, and ran short by the end of the evening, tough. 

I thought that was a bit harsh.  But at least they could still smoke and enjoy the day room.

[sarasmom]

I agree that designated supervised smoking areas are a must, not only in "nursing homes", but also in private homes when caring for an impaired adult, no matter the age.
NOT saying I think someone caring for an impaired adult at a private home needs "laws" to deal with such a common sence issue.
And I am definitely not advocating smoking bans in nursing homes!
There comes a time when individuals cannot be allowed to continue certain actions, when they have diminished judgement, due to age or illness.
For their own safety, and the safety of those around them.
Driving a vehicle is one such instance.
Smoking at will, is another.
But the idiotic administration of this particular nursing home is insane.
It's about as bad, and as stupid, as severely restricting pain medication for a terminal end stage cancer patient, lest they become addicted to drugs.