Snow is magical, snow is beautiful… Snow is also slippery and dangerous and gets gray and icy pretty quickly. But even when there is snow falling or on the ground, your patients need you to care for them.

Getting to work in the snow

If you’re not sure how to get to work if your street is snowed in or buses aren’t running, call your coordinator to find out what arrangements they have made. They may be sending drivers to take you to work safely. As soon as the snow stops, clear your walk and sidewalk so you can get in and out of your house without sinking in the snow.

Whether you’re taking public transportation or getting a ride to work, make sure your shoes have soles with a good grip. It’s so easy to slip in snow and there is often ice hidden underneath that you don’t see till you slide on it. If you like to wear sneakers or crocs to work, put those in a bag and wear some good boots till you arrive at the door of the nursing facility.

At the nursing facility

Even it seems toasty warm to you indoors, remember that the elderly often feel the cold much more than younger people. As you do your rounds, you can ask each patient if they are warm enough and provide extra blankets or a hot drink to those who need it.

Patients who can’t see out of the window from their beds will appreciate a “trip” to see the snow, especially if it’s still falling. There’s nothing more enchanting than watching snow fall from inside a warm and cozy room.

Getting home

Since snow can delay transportation and cause traffic, you may find yourself getting home later than usual on a stormy day. Eat a snack and drink something hot before you go out. You may even want to bring something to read or have a show downloaded on your phone so you can be entertained while you wait.

Working when it’s snowing can be challenging, but luckily the snow usually melts pretty quickly and leaves only memories. You are likely to forget this day pretty quickly but your patients will remember your dedication and smile for a long long time.