Strategies for smacking down stress

Staffing shortages, absenteeism and long hours all contribute to employee stress. So it’s important for FSDs to help staff manage the emotional side of the workplace. Here's how two are tackling the challenge.

The executive chef at one Immanuel Pathways senior living community is down three people on her team.

“That creates a lot of stress,” admits Lisa Lantry, director of dining services for the Omaha, Neb.-based parent company of 11 independent living, assisted living and long-term care facilities.

Until hires can be made, Lantry has assigned a roaming chef to assist until more positions can be filled, and also has offered administrative support so the understaffed operation can stay focused on meeting residents’ dining needs.

Jen Wright, director of nutritional services at Grace Healthcare in Clarksville, Tenn., offers any of her 25 employees the opportunity to vent and discuss issues. “Being that sounding board is sometimes the best solution,” she  says.

However, she warns, “Never get involved if you are not real and genuine with your sensitivity. And do not patronize and belittle the situation of an employee.’”