Angie Urman

Angie Urman, vice president of clinical operations at Knute Nelson in Alexandria, said the nursing home received their first new guests around 7:45 p.m. Thursday and the second batch came later, at about 10 p.m.
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Fortunately, said Urman, the facility received background information on the new residents prior to their arrival, which she said aided in deciding where the residents would go once they arrived.

Extra staff was on hand when the patients arrived, along with facility volunteers, which Urman said helped with the transition process. As the guests arrived, they were treated to snacks and introductions before going to their rooms.

"The majority were happy to finally get someplace or relieved to be here," said Urman. "And there were a couple that didn't really understand what was happening."

Over the weekend, the residents got acquainted with the new facility and Urman noted that many took part in activities, such as getting their hair fixed, playing cards or getting back to crocheting - all activities they were used to doing.

"We really didn't want to disrupt their routines," she said, noting that many of them said they felt like they are on vacation. "We might be spoiling them a little!"

Urman said she has been very impressed by the staff at Knute Nelson. Many of them who worked the day shift on Thursday came back and helped out when the new residents arrived that evening. "Everyone has gone the extra mile," she said.

At this point, Urman said she is not sure how long the 18 new guests will be staying. She spoke with a social worker at Eventide Monday morning, who said the facility has not been damaged, but that they were waiting to see what Monday and Tuesday's storm was going to bring. Urman predicted that the residents - two men and 16 women - would stay through the end of the week.

Angie Urman Vice President of Clinical Operations