Neglect is considered mistreatment that results from lack of attention or carelessness. Neglect can be physical, emotional, or financial. Leaving a resident unattended in a dangerous situation is an example of physical neglect, because basic safety was disregarded.
While Western culture uses therapeutic touch as a way to offer support or comfort, other religions or cultures see it as a violation of privacy. For example, Asians or Muslims do not welcome touch by strangers or by the opposite gender. When in doubt, ask for permission or be conservative in your approach.
A "Do Not Resuscitate" (DNR) order is obtained by a client (or the client's Power of Attorney for Healthcare) who does not want any actions to be taken if their breathing or heart stops. Do not do CPR or dial 911 when a DNR order is in effect. Provide post-mortem care and notify your supervisor.
If you are providing care for a patient and hear a disturbing noise nearby, make sure your patient is safe before checking on what has happened. Calling for help is wise, in case there is a medical emergency. Return to your patient as soon as possible.
Cultural diversity includes acceptance and respect of other religions and their practices. Religions may be different regarding which day of the week is set aside for worship. Jewish, Muslim, and Seventh-Day Adventists worship on Fridays and Saturdays. There may also be dietary restrictions and days of fasting. Within a religion, individuals may participate in some, but not all, aspects. Allow residents to observe their religion without interference or discrimination.
When a client (or the client's Power of Attorney for Healthcare) obtains a "Do Not Resuscitate" (DNR) order, they do not want any measures taken if their breathing or heart stops. When a DNR order is in place, do not do CPR or call Emergency Services. Notify your supervisor and provide post-mortem care.
HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Privacy Act) is the Federal law that protects a resident's privacy. This includes documentation, records, and communications. Information can only be shared with those who need it to provide treatment. There are severe penalties for sharing information, even if it is unintentional.
Before starting client care, all healthcare workers must complete HIPAA regulations training. Every level of customer privacy protection falls under the purview of facilities. It might be alluring to wish to discover more about a specific client, and since you are an employee, it is possible to accomplish so. But even the most elementary details or a conversation are against HIPAA. Your job could be at risk if you ask for information.
Neglect is mistreatment that happens as a result of indifference or carelessness. Physical, emotional, or monetary neglect are all possible. Physical neglect occurs when basic safety is neglected, like in the case of leaving a resident alone in a hazardous environment.
Personal phone calls during work hours takes you away from your job. It is also distracting to others. Each facility has a policy regarding using phones during work, including personal cell phones.
A resident has the right to choose, including whether or not to wear their dentures. Although dentures can make eating easier and improve nutrition, there may be a reason the resident doesn't wear them. Jaw bones can change over time, causing dentures to not fit well or to be uncomfortable. Ask the resident why they aren't wearing their dentures. Tell the nurse if a dental appointment is necessary.
If the CNA has a neglect charge, their license will be revoked for at least a year. Each state licensing board has regulations regarding reinstatement after claims of abuse or neglect. If the state allows reinstatement, they will provide information about the process. An attorney may be useful in reviewing the case and helping dispute or reinstate the license.
All abuse or suspected abuse must be reported. Every health care facility has a procedure for handling concerns about client care. If an incident involves a co-worker, notify the charge nurse. If a nurse aide observes the charge nurse in a situation that could be dangerous or neglectful for a resident, the nurse aide can go directly to the Nursing or Administrative Supervisor.
Every health care provider has a legal obligation to report any suspicion of abuse. Another report must be filed if it persists after being reported on or if no investigation has been conducted. There is a hotline for reporting known or suspected abuse in every state.
Home health clients have the same rights as patients in any other setting: nursing home, hospital, or clinic. They may refuse treatment without fear of punishment. You should try to find out why they don't want their medications. Perhaps the reason can be resolved or there is another issue that they can tell you about. Report their refusal to your supervisor. Do not try to trick or threaten them. Always remove any medication that is not taken.
A legal term known as "aiding and abetting" refers to having knowledge of a crime even though you weren't present. If you don't report it, it's assumed that you helped, making you an accomplice. Always notify your supervisor right away if you notice any kind of abuse, neglect, or wrongdoing.
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CNA Legal & Ethical Behaviours #3
