1. What made you decide to become a Caregiver?
I wanted to make a difference in my work, and help people to the best of my ability.
2. What does professionalism mean to you?
To be tidy, neat, responsible, and dependable.
3. What does preparation mean to you in regards to your workday?
Making sure I am clean, presentable, and inappropriate work attire. Leave a few minutes early as well, to prepare for unforeseen obstacles.
4. What does framework mean to you in the caregiver arena?
Framework means everyone does what they need to keep everything running smoothly.
Purpose: If the caregiver fails, that goes back to the case manager and so on until an issue is resolved.
5. How are you meeting the needs of others as a Caregiver?
As a PCA I make sure the client has whatever they need, and that their home is sanitary and organized to their preference.
6. Professionalism: How do you take responsibility for yourself?
Attitude: Positive
Mood: Always stay happy
Motivation: Our elders paved the way for us, we need to help them
Job knowledge: Read up on TLC’s articles
Compassion: Listen to the client, understand their thinking/feelings
7. Preparation: How do you reduce risk to yourself and your client?
I make sure I am only doing what I am permitted to do in my job description, as well as making sure the client is not overdoing themselves. Like watching as they descend stairs, walk behind them during errands.
8. What does proper attire mean to you?
Typically a scrub top and solid color trousers, with supportive sneakers. In winter months, sometimes a plain sweater. In summer, occasionally capris.
10. What precautions do you take?
I make sure there is nothing I or the client can trip on, no sharp objects unattended or in a bad place, make sure floors are dry. I keep my cleat slips in my care as well as a shovel and all fluids just in case.
11. What observations do you make when working?
I observe to make sure the client’s mobility is not failing, and that their mental state is remaining the same. I watch them as they move around, especially if they are unstable or need walking assistance like a cane or walker.
12. What does self-control mean to you?
Your personal life and personality should stay at home, not divulge to a client.
13. What does it mean to follow a care plan?
To make sure you accommodate the clients’ needs as well as complete all daily tasks they need to be done.
14. What is proper communication?
Open speech about client concerns to someone higher up, an example being if the client fell, make sure the case manager is notified as soon as possible.
15. How do you maintain a proper environment?
Make sure everything is picked up, clear floors, and no health or safety hazards that could injure the client or make the client ill.
16. How do you maintain meeting the basic needs of your client?
I ask them on day one what they need and expect of me, I read the care plan regularly, and fulfill my duties.
17. What does patience mean to you in the framework of caregiving?
Let the client tell you the same story every day, it makes them happy. Walk slower with them, they can’t get around as fast. Stay calm when they are upset or angry, it’s not their fault.
18. How do you handle the unexpected?
Step back and form a rational and quick plan, then take control of the situation until it’s settled.
19. What does proper documentation look like?
Paperwork is completely filled out, with date, time, and a signature, if necessary it will have a follow-up.
20. How do you review and improve?
I take in criticism and work hard to take it into account and better myself and the work that I do.
