1. What made you decide to become a Caregiver?
I was drawn to the elderly population at an early age. I had 2 grandmothers who I grew up with – one with Alzheimer’s, and one who had an operation that left her on a ventilator.
2. What does professionalism mean to you?
Being qualified and knowledgeable in caregiving in order to assist with elderly care in their homes. Appropriate attire, demeanor, etc.
3. What does preparation mean to you in regards to your workday?
Knowledgeable of client/routines, continue to educate plan for the day – meals, activities, something the client wants to do, etc… ‘expect the unexpected’ be aware of phone #s, etc.
4. What does framework mean to you in the caregiver arena?
A framework is guidelines for caregiving; dignity, respect, involving the client, promote independence, assist, advocate, take care of self, and ask questions when needed.
Purpose: Guidelines everyone can follow.
5. How are you meeting the needs of others as a Caregiver?
By communication – client, family, TLC… To the best of my ability physical, emotional needs, talking/visiting.
6. Professionalism: How do you take responsibility for yourself?
I remind myself I have a purpose, the client is my focus.
Attitude: Smile, stay involved, keep the conversation
Mood: smile, positive thoughts/words
Motivation: Stretch/exercise
Job knowledge: Enjoy research, reading, asking questions
Compassion: Naturally compassionate
7. Preparation: How do you reduce risk to yourself and your client?
Being prepared and ready – always be aware of where the client is at, think things through before acting if uncertain call for help.
8. What does proper attire mean to you?
“Dress for success” Look nice
9. What does proper mobility mean to you?
Bend knees, back, and neck straight, stay close and with the client, get a chair, etc. Safety is Number 1!
10. What precautions do you take?
Important phone numbers being visible, being prepared for an emergency, calling TLC with questions.
11. What observations do you make when working?
Changes in the client’s physical and behaviors. Bowels, urine color, etc.
12. What does self-control mean to you?
Ability to control me with emotions, what I say, etc.
13. What does it mean to follow a care plan?
Dr./Nurse puts care plan in place, communicates organized actions for a client, gives directions for caregivers to follow, lists diagnoses, specific needs.
15. How do you maintain a proper environment?
Calm, respect the client and their home, routines, safety.
16. How do you maintain meeting the basic needs of your client?
Listen to the client, communicate with one another, assist, ask for help if needed.
17. What does patience mean to you in the framework of caregiving?
Ability to listen to client’s needs, etc. Taking the time with the client to follow through.
18. How do you handle the unexpected?
Stay calm, level-headed decisions, call for help as needed.
19. What does proper documentation look like?
Days events with the client, changes with the client, meals, meds, follow the care plan.
20. How do you review and improve?
Improve – take to heart what is being said during the review, follow and implement.
