Caregiving Can Be Heartbreaking, and We Thank You for It
Standing out in a field of caregivers can be difficult. Implement these 6 tips to get noticed and be the cream of the crop.
Attention to Detail
Attention to detail can mean the difference between noticing an illness early enough for regular treatment and noticing so late that hospitalization may be necessary. Pay attention to differences in the client, as even small differences in eating habits, conversations, and mood among other things should be documented and reported to their doctor and/or family.
Focus on the Client
When you are caring for a client, your focus should be on them. Don’t bring your drama to work with you, dragging the client down. Discussing your drama with a client can add stress to their life and take the focus off of their care. They may begin to see themselves as just another source of your stress and decline to ask for help they require or tell you if something is wrong.
Look for Commonalities
Your client likes sports and you do too? Great! Talk about the game that was on last night or last week or the greatest (or worst) game you’ve ever witnessed. Talk about players or coaches or the latest news about the NFL draft. If not a common love for sports, look for something else you share a love for. There will almost certainly be something, no matter who you are. This kind of genuine conversation will get the client talking and feeling more comfortable and they will likely be excited to continue the conversation during the next visit.
Show Compassion
Always remember the client isn’t just a part of the job, they’re another person. Helping the individual complete tasks may be work as usual for you, but it may mean the difference between comfort and pain for them. Be sure to help the client in any way that you can and have authentic conversations with them throughout the visit. Sometimes all they may need to brighten their day is a little bit of company.
Be Available
Depending on the client’s current lifestyle, there may be certain times they are accustomed to doing certain activities. Because it can be helpful to keep a consistent schedule, availability during these times can be the key to a successful caregiver-client relationship. Make sure to get an understanding of when the client will need help and be honest and open about your availability in order to keep good relations with the client and their family.
Be Honest
If you don’t understand something the client or their family wants you to do, be honest about your understanding. Repeat back to them your interpretation of the request to ensure it is properly fulfilled. The worst thing you can do as a caregiver in this situation is say you understand the care required when that is not the case. Not only can this result in your being fired and receiving a negative recommendation, but it can also have serious negative health consequences for the client if tasks are performed improperly. Honesty in these situations will likely also increase the trust clients and their families have in you.
Get Certified
CPR and First Aid training and certification can help you gain the trust of family members focused on safety. This type of training reassures clients along with their family members that you will be able to act appropriately during an emergency situation.
Using these simple tips when interacting with clients and their families can help you to stand out as a desirable candidate in future care situations.
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