Chapters 24-31 Flashcards
Frying
A method of cooking that uses a lot of fat and is the least healthy way to cook
References
People who can be called to recommend you as an employee. They can include former employers or former teachers. Do not use relatives or friends
Know the facts about home care
1) Many people who are discharged from the hospital have not fully recovered their strength and stamina. Many require skilled assistance or monitoring. Most insurance companies are willing to pay for a part of this care because it is less expensive that a long hospital or facility stay.
2) The growing numbers of older people and chronically ill people are also creating a demand for home services.
3) The HHA (Home Health Aide) should only do tasks that are listed on the care plan. If the client makes an inappropriate request, say “no” and explain that only tasks assigned in the care plan are allowed.
Know the differences between working as a home health aide and working in a long-term care facility
1) A home health aide has more independence. In a care facility, you know what supplies will be available and what kind of cleanliness and organization to expect at work. In home care, you may not know until you get there.
2) Long-term facilities are built to make caregiving easier and safer. They have wide doors, large bathing facilities, and special equipment for transferring residents. In home care, the layout rooms, stairs, lack of equipment, cramped bathrooms, rugs, clutter, and even pets can complicate caregiving.
Know the facts about how to organize home care assignments
To finish all your assignments each day, you have to work efficiently. To be efficient, you need to decide the order in which to do your tasks. It is a good idea to make a list of the tasks you will do and the order in which you will do them.
Be able to identify “dirty” items in the home
The floor; Saliva and other discharges from the mouth and nose; Body wastes, such as stool (feces) and urine; Drainage from wounds; Spoiled food. This includes any objects that come in contact with these items
Know the facts about disinfection with wet heat/dry heat
Wet heat: Boil in water for 20 minutes
Dry heat: Bake in the oven at 350 degrees for 1 hour
What is the proper ratio of bleach to water in a disinfecting solution?
One part bleach to nine parts water
Know the facts about fall prevention
Clear all walkways of clutter, throw rugs, and cords. Avoid waxing floors, and use non-skid mats or carpeting where appropriate. Have clients wear clothing that fits properly, e.g. is not too long. Keep frequently used items close to the client. Improve where necessary, return adjustable beds to lowest position when you are finished with care.
Know the facts about burn/scald prevention
Roll up the sleeves and avoid loose clothing working at or near the stove. Keep space heaters away from client’s beds, chairs and draperies. Make sure clients know when you’re about to pour or set down a hot liquid. Poor hot drinks away from clients. Keep hot drinks and liquids away from the edges of tables and make sure the clients are sitting down before serving hot liquids.
Know the foods to avoid in infants and toddlers to help prevent choking.
Do not give infants and toddlers popcorn, peanuts, hard candy, gum or foods such as hotdogs or grapes. Cut all foods into bite-size pieces suitable for the age of the child.
Know the five “rights” of medication
1) The right client
2) The right medication
3) The right time
4) The right route
5) The right amount
Know the facts about how HHAs can help clients with self-administered medications
1) remind the client when it is time for in the medication and check the five rights of medication. Read the medication label for the client identify the container and bring it to the client. Provide food or water to take with a medication, shake liquid medication divided by the care claim. Open and close containers, observe the client taking medications.
2) Document to the client the medication, the time, and other medication or food taken at the same time. Report any possible reactions to your supervisor. Clean and store or dispose of special medication equipment after use
Know the facts about medication storage
Keep the clients medication in one place, separate for medicine used by other members of household. If there are young children or disoriented elderly person in the home, recommend to the family to the medication be locked away. Or medication should be kept in child proof containers if the children are in the home. If medicine requires refrigeration, make sure the bottles toward the back on an upper shelf. If medication should be stored away from heat and light as appropriate. The client or family members to discard medication if expired, are not labeled, or are discolored. Make sure medications are not discarded in the trash. Children or animals may have access to them, do not dispose of them yourself
Know what to do if the client refuses to take a medication
If your client refuses to take certain medications, explain that their recovery often depends on taking the right medication. If the client still refuses, notify your supervisor. Do not push the client to take the medication. However, try to find out what is making him/her reluctant to take it.
