Residents' Top 5 Complaints About Nursing Homes: #3

The patient lift is a machine used to transfer a resident from their bed to their wheelchair and back. No resident I've met likes using one, and I suspect the reason is the combination of loss of control, the frightening feeling of being suspended, helpless, in midair, and a lack of training which makes the procedure more alarming and uncomfortable than it needs to be.

When I was in grad school, all psychologists-in-training were required to undergo psychotherapy. Similarly, aides could gain perspective from a ride in the lift as part of their orientation or ongoing training.

Read the rest of the My Better Nursing Home Blog - Click Here.

Using the Internet to Your Advantage - In Your Facility

While most of us use the internet in our personal lives, it doesn't always occur to us to share it with people outside the home. For long-term care residents, the facility is their home, but how many enjoy the same internet access we all take for granted? Does your facility have internet-connected computers available for the residents, or high speed internet connections in resident rooms? If not, you're missing out. The internet can be a great source of entertainment, learning, and human interaction. Wait - human interaction? Yep. Read on!

Generally speaking, older residents are less likely to be computer literate than facility staff or volunteers. The adage "if you don't know how to use electronics, ask a teenager" is popular because it's true, and pairing teenagers with residents can bring a lot of life and vitality into your facility. Many high schools encage their students to volunteer, sometimes offering school credit for volunteer hours. For our purposes, though, any computer literate, patient volunteers will do. Got your volunteers? Great! Here are some ideas for how volunteers can help residents enjoy all the fun and entertainment the internet holds.

Email and Communication
To the mobile phone generation, email can seem pretty dated, but it's still one of the fastest, best ways people have to stay in touch with others. Everyone loves to receive mail--whether it's a paper letter or an email note--and helping residents access email is a simple but rewarding task. If a resident has limited mobility, a volunteer can take dictation and type letters. For visually impaired residents, a volunteer reader can be a big help.

A common problem for residents is that their family members live too far away to visit frequently. Various internet services can help bridge the gap between visits. At the most basic level, email is a great way for residents to stay in touch with relatives, and to exchange pictures and web links. If you have a headset with microphone available, residents can also use Skype to make video or audio phone calls. It's free to contact other Skype users, and less expensive than traditional long distance service to contact users outside of Skype. Even sites like Google now allow video chat for free. You just need a web camera, speakers, and a microphone (or an inexpensive all-in-one headset). There's nothing quite like chatting with long distance friends or family to put a smile on a resident's face.

Fun and entertainment
Many seniors enjoy doing research on their ancestors and the internet has several resources for genealogy research. This is also a great activity to share with volunteers. Ancestry.com is one of the most popular genealogy sites. It requires subscription fees, but offers a 2-week free trial to new members.

Google Maps Street View

Another fun activity is to take a virtual vacation by browsing photos online. Photo sharing sites like flickr.com and photobucket.com make it very easy to search for images by location. Take a tour of sun-soaked Greece, or help a resident take a stroll down main street in his or her home town. Google earth and google street view images give you the perspective of walking or driving down a street, and I have yet to meet anyone who doesn't get excited about zooming in on their home or residential facility on a satellite map.

We can't forget the internet's most popular options: movies and games. Most of the major TV networks allow you to stream recent shows on their web sites. This is a great way for residents to keep up with their favorite shows without having to stick to a viewing schedule. hulu.com is a great place to find the last three or four episodes of current series, and full runs of older shows. For movies, Netflix is the best deal. DVDs can be delivered directly to residents through the mail, and there is no need to run down to the local kiosk or rental store. Also, Netflix has a huge collection of movies and TV series available for instant viewing online. You'll need to pay for a monthly subscription to access Netflix's services (after a free trial), but the fees are modest and there are no contracts. A subscription could make a great gift for a nursing home resident.

When it comes to games, there are hundreds of game web sites and many are free. Unfortunately, many of the free sites are supported by advertising, so the pages can be flashy and annoying. Certainly not a fun experience when all you want to do is play some solitaire. Even worse, some of these game sites prey upon their visitors by packing the games with spyware and privacy- invading tracking programs. Please be cautious when looking for games, and do not download anything from a site you're not familiar with, or a name you do not trust.

Luckily, more sites are realizing that older players don't want all the bells and whistles, and are developing games that will appeal to this demographic. AARP is a good starting point to find user-friendly games on a trusted web site. All the favorites--sudoku, solitaire, mah jong--are here: http://games.aarp.org/

No matter what you choose, the more you get volunteers or family visitors involved, the more personal interaction your residents will have, and that's good for everyone.

Nursing home resident's say 'we love our staff!'

Balloon Man Visits The Nursing Home

Using the Internet to Your Advantage

Work in a medical or long term care facility is very hands on and person-centered, so most people don't think of bringing the internet into the mix, but you'd be surprised how internet resources can make your working life easier. Web sites and search engines make it easy to find information and answers in a hurry, and there are many online tools that can help you stay organized.

One of the easiest tools is Google's calendar. Here, you can list events from both your work and personal life and have them on one page. You can also mix in calendars for family members, roommates, or anyone else with whom you share your time. Since it's online, you can access it from any computer with an internet connection. A mobile phone with internet or a data plan can also be used to view Google calendars.  

Remember the Milk is another great tool for keeping your day in order. It works online or on most mobile phones. RTM lets you set up a simple "to-do" list so that you never forget an appointment, or forget to pick up milk on your way home from work. It's the perfect way to jot down a quick reminder, or to make sure you don't miss an important meeting.

A calendar is great for keeping your tasks organized, but how do you take care of the day to day home tasks that pile up while you're at work? FlyLady to the rescue! FlyLady is a web site that teaches you how to manage every day tasks (like cleaning the bathroom, decluttering a closet, or squeezing in a workout) without losing your mind. FlyLady gives you tips and tricks to keep your house tidy and your stress levels low.

When it comes to on-the-job resources, there are many web sites available. Med Aides and Pharmacy Assistants can use the internet to stay current on medications and their uses. Try http://www.pharmacychoice.com/ (click the Resources tab) the next time you need fast information about a medication. Online classes are also a wonderful way to renew your Med Aide licence or pick up new skills.

Also, most Federal and State regulations and documents are posted online. Find the forms or statutes you use most often and save them in your web browser (Favorites in Internet Explorer, Bookmarks in Firefox). That way you'll always have what you need at your fingertips. No need to rummage through file drawers or stacks of paper on a desk.

Home Health Aides can benefit from online calendars and sites like Remember the Milk to make sure home visits stay on schedule. The National Association for Home Care and Hospice web site also has many resources. If you've had a rough day and need some support or guidance, the forums at http://forums.agis.com/ let you connect with other caregivers. Share your advice when you can, and learn from others when you need some help.

Activity Directors probably have the most internet resources available. You can find almost limitless ideas for activities online. Try these web sites for ideas and support: http://www.activitydirector.net/ and http://www.activitydepartment.com/

Finally, Nursing Assistants have many online resources to choose from. If you want to brush up on a particular skill or technique, this website has several video lessons: http://deptets.fvtc.edu/nursing/index.htm. Nursingassistants.net is chock full of information and tips to make your work easier.

Since most of our students live and work in small communities, it can be hard to find people who understand your work and can offer valuable advice. The sites above let you connect with people around the country (and even the world), and give you access to information you'd never be able to find locally. Take a few moments to search for information, or explore the sites in this article, and see how much the internet can help your working life.

In our next blog post, we'll discuss ways you can use the internet to help your residents and people in your care.

Ready To Run Away When The Surveyors Come?

Work in a long term care facility is filled with hundreds of little stresses, but every now and then one comes along that throws you into a panic. For many employees, survey time can be the worst. You know the drill: A state employee shows up with a clipboard and puts your facility under the microscope. Suddenly you're worried about every little thing, and unable to concentrate on your work. Is your paperwork in order? Did you remember to wash your hands after helping Ms. Jones with her eyedrops? Did Mr. Morris get his lunch in a timely manner?

Ok, stop. Take a deep breath. I'm going to let you in on a secret about surveys. Ready?

Survey days are the same as ANY OTHER DAY.

That's right. Whether you're the DON, a CNA, or facility's Activities Director, it's up to you to do you very best for your residents every day you come to work. If you're doing your job properly, everything will run smoothly and survey day won't be any different than any other day on the job.

Want to make survey as painless as possible? Do a mental run-down of everything the surveyors look for and make sure you could pass inspection with flying colors. Is your workflow in order, or are you always scrambling to take care of things when they pop up? Checklists can be a great help for both directors and employees. Rather than having to juggle everything in your head--and deal with interruptions and distractions--you can just refer to your checklist and keep things running smoothly. It's the easiest way to make sure you never forget something important, and it'll help you get back on track when all those little distractions pop up. If your records are up-to-date and neatly organized, you'll sail right through that part of the survey.

Next, take a moment to pretend that you're visiting your facility for the first time. Look around you and take note of what you see. Are the residents happy and involved with activities, or are they sitting alone in silence? Does everyone look well groomed, or is hygiene lacking? How does the air smell? When you work in a place day after day, you can get accustomed to smells, but it's important to take a moment to pay attention. If anything seems off, or if there are issues with the residents, take care of them now. That way, when it's survey time, you can relax and be confident that everything is in order.

Stand in the entrance to the dining hall, or in the facility's entry. How would your coworkers appear to a stranger? Are people stressed and short tempered, or do you see lots of smiles and pleasant interactions? Are residents addressed by name? If there is anything discourteous or disrespectful occurring, take care of it immediately. It might require a staff meeting or a memo, but clearing up any issues now will make survey a breeze.

Finally, remember that surveyors are just people doing their jobs, like you. They aren't there to cause trouble or make your life difficult. Yes, a lot of things are riding on a survey, but if you're working safely and conscientiously already, you have nothing to worry about. Help inspectors get their work done and get the information they need, and you'll be able to get back to your work that much more quickly. If you're doing a good job every day, survey day will be a breeze. Smile, take a deep breath, and go about your business without worrying.

 https://www.cms.gov/manuals/downloads/som107c07.pdf

 

How to Be a Good Online Student

In my last post, I gave an overview of whether or not online learning is for you. Now I'd like to focus on what it takes to succeed in online learning. If you've decided that an online class sounds just right for you, this list can help you not only survive, but thrive in your class.

1. Take care of all the required busywork up front. If the class requires a book or workbook, make sure you leave plenty of time to get it. If you're ordering the book from an online store (or even a regular bookstore), the book might be out of stock or backordered. Leave enough time for the post office to get your book to you before class starts, or you could find yourself falling behind. Also, make sure you have submitted all the required paperwork for your class. Here at We Care Online, several of our Kansas classes require students to include a copy of a Nurse Aide or Social Security card as part of the registration. If your class has a clinical component, make sure you know where and when the class will meet, and make any arrangements for transportation or child care.

2. Get familiar with your computer. If you only use your computer for checking email or watching videos, take some time to play around online and get comfortable with how your web browser works. Ask your questions and get familiar with how the computer works before you're under the pressure of class deadlines. It's much easier to get over nerves when you're just surfing for yourself versus when you're in the middle of a class and assignments are due.

3. Start your class promptly and stay on track. If possible, get a little bit ahead on assignments so you'll have a cushion of time later on in the class. A lot of people assume that online classes are easier and take less time than traditional classes, but this is rarely the case. Don't assume you can take it easy in the beginning and make up for lost time at the end.

4. Manage your time. When your class starts, take a look at the class outline, and at the assignments for all chapters or units. Get a feel for how long it will take you to work through each section and set up a schedule for yourself so you'll stay on track. There can be a lot of variation in the length of individual learning units, so don't assume that each one will take the same amount of time to complete.

5. Be sociable. Online classes have a discussion board when you can talk to your fellow students. There are generally some assigned questions related to the class material, but don't be afraid to start a new topic or to stray a little off topic to get to know your classmates better. You're all just names on a screen to each other until you write a message and let your personality come through. Share experiences you have had in your working life that might help your other students, such as how a technique is performed at your facility, or something you have learned on the job.  But always be mindful of patient confidentiality issues! It's ok to change names or details to protect someone's privacy.

Unfortunately, it's easy to get too comfortable online and share more than you should. Always be mindful of over-sharing. It's fine to mention if you have kids, or where you work, but be wary of giving out personal information like phone numbers or birthdates. Think of it this way: if you're chatting with someone in line at the grocery store, you might tell a funny story about your toddler, but you're not going to tell that person where you live or where your kids go to school. If you're not comfortable sharing it with that person in the grocery store line, you probably shouldn't share it online either. Be open with your knowledge of class topics--you're here to learn, and learn from others--but keep the personal information personal.

Finally, always be mindful of the fact that when you're online, humor and sarcasm are not always obvious, so jokes can fall flat and people might misunderstand what you are trying to say. Always take a moment to pause and read over your discussion board comments, or email messages, before sending them. Do your best to use good grammar and proper spelling, and to project a professional image at all times. Leave a good impression on your classmates--you never know when you might bump into them in your working life. A student might someday be your co-worker, boss, or employee, or a reference on a job application. Make sure your words reflect the best you have to offer.

The Virginia Adult Learning Resource Center has a wonderful tutorial about online learning. Some of the items are specific to VALRC students, but the majority of the information applies to any online class. The sections on time management and internet terms are particularly good. If you are new to computers, or hesitant online, this tutorial could set your mind at ease.

Start here: http://www.valrc.org/tutorials/onlinelearner/introduction.htm

Are Online Courses For You?

Online classes are described as many things - fast, convenient, inexpensive - and while there are many benefits, they're not for everyone. If you're on the fence about whether an online class is for
you, or not, ask yourself the following questions:

1. Do you have reliable internet access and a fairly new computer?

Many classes have interactive content like slideshows and video clips. Class materials can also be heavy on pictures, so having a computer that can process multi-media content, and an internet connection that can handle the load, is essential.

2. Are you a strong reader? Are you comfortable reading many pages of text on a screen, and interacting in a discussion board?

If you're the kind of person who reads a book to learn how to do something, or enjoys reading a manual to learn how to work a new piece of equipment, online learning is definitely for you. Most online
classes will involve reading lessons on the computer, and then doing assigned readings in a textbook. You may also have a discussion board where you can interact with your classmates in, you guessed it, text.

It can be a LOT of reading, so if you prefer face-to-face conversations, and being around people, you might find online classes can be a bit lonely. On the other hand, discussion boards are great places to find lively discussion and to learn from your fellow students. It's slower than talking in-person, but can often be a richer experience because of the thought everyone puts into their postings.

3. Do you have the time to commit to a course?

Many people feel that online classes are easier than traditional classroom learning, and that there are many opportunities to cut corners and spend less time on your schoolwork than you would at a
regular school. Not true. Online classes take every bit as much time as traditional classes, and might even take more. Discussions are slower via message board, and readings can take longer than lectures.
Take the time commitment into consideration before signing up for a class. Yes, it's on your schedule, but it still requires you to put in the necessary time.

4. Do you budget your time well?

One of the biggest perks of taking an online class is the flexibility in schedule. You can study in that hour after the kids go to bed, or sip coffee in your pajamas while you take a unit quiz. It's hard to beat the comforts of home, and the convenience of working at your own pace, but online courses still take discipline. At We Care Online, class units have specific deadlines, and you're required to do assigned readings, visit the discussion board, and do your unit tests all on a set schedule. If you need the motivation of peers in a classroom, online learning might not work for you. There is some room for procrastination, but you do need to have a certain amount of discipline. Be honest with yourself about your ability to self-motivate and stay on task.

5. Do you enjoy interacting online?

The more interaction there is in the discussion boards, the more everyone learns. You also help build your professional network (and you might make some friends, too!). Thanks to the anonymity of online
classes, it's easy for shy people to speak up and add their insights to a class discussion. Everyone is equal on a discussion board, and you have all the time you need to compose your words and make sure
you're saying what you mean to say. No one will talk over you, or roll eyes at your comments.

Still not sure if online learning is for you? Try this quiz: http://online.uwc.edu/quiz_2.0/selftest3.asp

Also, here's a calculator to help you determine whether or not an online class will save you money vs. a traditional classroom class. http://sln.suny.edu/gs/gs_costcalculator.shtml

WeCareOnlineClasses.com

How To Keep Your Cool When Dealing With a Difficult Resident

You don't have to work in long term care for long before you encounter a difficult person. Sometimes it's a resident, other times a coworker, or even someone outside the facility like a resident's family member or doctor. Beyond the golden rule, what can you, as a health worker, do to improve these encounters? To simplify things, I'm going to address issues with residents here. A lot of these tips are universal and can help with any difficult person, but some are very specific to long term care residents.

First off, no matter how difficult it is, keep your temper in check. It's easy to get your hackles up when people are being belligerent - moreso when you know you're right and they're wrong - but nothing will
ruin the encounter faster than a lost temper. If you need to leave the room or turn away to regain your composure, do so. Taking a deep breath and letting it out slowly, or counting to ten in your head,
really does help.

Composed and ready to face the situation now? Great. It's important to remember that many residents are adjusting to many changes in their lives. It is very rarely about you, and almost always about something
else that's bothering the resident, so don't take outbursts personally. The loss of health and independence can be very hard to face. Fear, anger, sadness, and pain can pervade almost every aspect of a person's life when they first transition to assisted care. Keep in mind that any of these things might be behind a resident's rudeness or inappropriate behavior. Instead of scolding the resident, or getting your feathers ruffled, use your empathy skills to gently encourage a resident to share what is bothering him or her. A leading question like, "I hear a lot of tension in your voice. Is your pain worse today?"  can give the resident the chance to tell his or her side of the story. Let your residents know that you're on their side
and will do everything in your power to help address their issues.

Now, with a belligerent resident, this might be an invitation to carry on about problems and pains, whether real or imagined. Do your best to get to the heart of their issues and offer solutions. Is Mr. Smith's wheelchair pad worn and causing discomfort? Is Ms. Jones' robe aggravating her skin condition? It's often the simple fix that can diffuse the litany of complaints. If fear is the root of the problem,
demonstrating empathy and sharing your knowledge might be all it takes to set a resident's mind at ease. Perhaps a resident is balking at taking medication because he or she doesn't fully understand why it is
necessary. Telling the resident to "take it because the doctor said so" won't help the situation. Use your knowledge to explain, as best you can, what a medication does or doesn't do, and set the resident's mind at ease. A resident might also lash out due to loneliness. Do whatever you can to be a friend to your residents. Sometimes all they need is someone to listen. Talk to your facility's Activity Director or Social Services representative and arrange for the resident to attend a group activity or have a volunteer stop by and visit with the resident.

Another issue that faces residents as they transition to a nursing facility is the feeling of a loss of  responsibility. Many resent going from being parents and caretakers to being dependent on others. Refusing to take medicine, or not wanting to attend meals in the dining room can point to a deeper issue. Residents are going from being in control of their own schedules to being forced into a facility's schedule, and that can be tough. You can help by offering residents choices and allowing them to exercise independence and judgment on their own. Instead of offering water with pills, let the resident chose between water, milk and juice (according to the diet plan). Ask residents what time they like to eat meals, and if the time is different from your facility's dining hours, see if it would be possible to arrange for an
in-room meal at a time more fitting for the resident.

In all encounters, focus on the positive. If you need to get through an awkward or unpleasant activity (like a sponge bath) chat about a TV show coming on later that day, or about the facility-wide Bingo game
that evening. If a resident is fighting you as you try to change a wound dressing, remind them that the sooner you finish, the sooner the resident can go back to doing something he or she enjoys. Let them see that by sitting quietly and letting you do your work, they can move on to more pleasant things more quickly.

Finally, be on the lookout for residents who suffer in silence. Most people are taught to keep a stiff upper lip, or to remain stoic in the face of troubles, so it can be very hard for your residents to admit they are hurting and need help. Use your skill at reading body language to help see beyond the surface behavior to what might be going on under the surface. Stiff posture or fidgeting might indicate a person is in pain. Staring into space or frequent sighing can clue you in that your resident's mind is on something other than the here and now. It might be too embarrassing for residents to discuss medical problems with you at first, but if you demonstrate an air of trust and make your residents feel safe, you can help them to express what's really behind "bad" behavior.

Want to read more on this topic? Check out these articles.
http://nursinglink.monster.com/careers/articles/5771-difficult-patients-why-theyre-that-way-and-how-to-handle-them

http://ezinearticles.com/?Elder-Care-Solutions---Dealing-With-Difficult-Aging-Parents&id=3901872

Interview With An Health Unit Coordinator Graduate

Last week we wrote about the role of Health Unit Coordinators in care facilities. This week we're going a little further and talking to a graduate of our Health Unit Coordinator class, Babette P. Babette completed our course and then took the exam to join the industry's national association. With almost a year's worth of working experience behind her, so shares what she's learned.

WeCareOnline: Thanks for talking with us, Babette. First off, are you now working as a Health Unit Coordinator? If so, how long did it take?
Babette: Yes, I work in a 55 bed ER. It took 3 months.

WCO: Are you happy with your job?
B: It is very challenging, but I like it.

WCO: What surprises did you find when you started your job?
B: I was prepared for pretty much all, it was just a steep learning curve. Most of it was good. The only area that an online class cannot prepare you for is transcribing orders.  Even with the practice CD, it was still a big jump.

WCO: Does your position require you to be Certified by the National Association of Health Unit Coordinators?
B: Yes, it is required within 90 days of hire.

WCO: Do you think it was worth it to get your NAHUC certification?
B: Yes, it probably put me ahead of some of my co-applicants.

WCO: Would you recommend the We Care Online Health Unit Coordinator course to others?
B:  Yes, I already have to two people.

WCO: What is your favorite part of Health Unit Coordinating?
B. Helping to make a scary situation easier for patients and family.

WCO: Please share a little more about Health Unit Coordinating and how the We Care Online class helped you.

B: I like Health Unit Coordinating because I am a valued part of the health care team.  We work together for the best possible outcome.  Making a difference in the outcome of a patient's illness, or helping co-workers to be more efficient and productive is rewarding.  I did not have the time, nor did I want to spend endless hours commuting to a college where the course was offered.  WeCareOnline made it possible for me to attain my goal of becoming a Health Unit Coordinator with no commute and within my schedule constraints.

Thanks for your time, Babette. We wish you continued success with your Health Unit Coordinating career, and we're happy we could help you get your start!

For anyone else considering an HUC position, our HUC class is offered continuously throughout the year. It's an open enrollment class, so there are no start or end dates, and you can dive in immediately after we process your registration. With just sixty hours of class time (at your convenience), you can be on your way to a rewarding career with growth potential. What are you waiting for?

What is a Health Unit Coordinator?

If you say you're a Certified Nurse Aide or Restorative Aide, most people know what you're talking about, but not so much if you're a Health Unit Coordinator. This frequently overlooked position is one of the most in-demand jobs in health care today, and the field is only growing. What is a Health Unit Coordinator? The HUC is the person who keeps a nursing unit running, allowing others to do their specific jobs. The HUC is a jack of all trades and can do anything from answering phones and working a reception desk to transcribing doctor's and nurse's orders for patient care. As the name implies, the HUC coordinates the workflow in a health care unit. This can involve everything from ordering supplies, to processing paperwork, and handling admissions and discharges. HUCs are the link between doctors, nurses, and other service staff.  It is a position requiring strong clerical skills and an ability to juggle multiple tasks and demands. This article has more detail on the various skills and duties involved in being an HUC - http://www.mshealthcareers.com/careers/healthunitcoord.htm

The position requires patience and above-average communication skills. If you thrive in a busy environment and enjoy the satisfaction that comes from making sure things run smoothly, this could be the perfect job for you. Health Unit Coordinators do not need to be certified to fill an HUC role, but they do need specialized training. The Health Unit Coordinator is one of our most popular classes and can give you all the training you need to work as an HUC. NAHUC (http://www.nahuc.org) is the professional association for health unit coordinators. It's mission is to promote health unit coordinating as a profession through education and certification. You do not need to be certified to be a member, and you do not need to be a member to be certified. Both the membership and certification can help your career though, so certification is recommended.

Salaries for HUC vary by area, but those in large cities can expect $30-$35,000 a year, and smaller areas are generally $25-$30,000 annually. An overview of average salaries by city can be found here. HUC is also a great stepping stone to a nursing career. It will give you an insider's view of how a unit runs, and give you experience that can help in any other health care job.

See our Health Unit Coordinator Course information HERE.

Raising Quality Kids...when you're working night and day!

People used to joke about "doctor's hours", how doctors were only on the job when it was convenient, but anyone who has ever worked in health care knows how far that is from the truth. Today's medical workers, like CNAs and HHAs, often work long hours and irregular, on-call shifts. All this while juggling the needs of their families.

Quality time with the family can be hard to come by, and it can be hard to devote the time you need to your kids. How can health care workers raise quality kids while meeting the needs of very demanding jobs?

First, don't panic! While your kids certainly need periods of undivided attention, you can still manage plenty of quality time while going through your day. As this (http://www.lovingyourchild.com/2010/04/raising-kids-quality-time/) article points out,"Contrary to popular notion, the best parent-child memories are not created out of major milestones marked with much celebration and fanfare. It’s the little moments spent in doing things together that create beautiful memories – cherished and held close to the heart forever." Little things like talking about the upcoming day with your children while making your and their lunches can go a long way. Instead of rushing out the door with a travel mug of coffee, take a few moments to enjoy a bowl of cereal with your kids. It'll start your day--and theirs--off right. Similarly, instead of plopping down in front of the TV after work, turn the TV off and play a board game with your family. Or take a walk around the block, or hit the park to toss a ball around. Getting out of the house and away from the TV can bring out the chatterbox in your kids, and you'll be able to keep current on their lives with very little effort.

Driving to and from daycare or school is another frequently missed opportunity. Instead of letting your kids bury their heads in a movie or video game, take the time to ask about their days. Talk about some of your experiences at work (being mindful of confidentiality, of course!). Long term care workers could write books full of all the great stories they hear from their elderly residents. Why not share some of those stories with your children and encourage them to share in kind? Don't use this time to gripe about work or problematic co-workers. Instead, focus on the positive. You can help your kids understand why your work is important (and why you need to be away from home during your shifts) while encouraging them to talk about their day care or school time, too. Audio books are another great way to get closer with your kids. Find a story or author you both enjoy and you can discuss the book between chapters. It's a great way to break the ice and get your kids talking. Picking books that reflect your values lets you share what's important while entertaining at the same time.

Family meal time is one of the best ways to keep involved with your kids lives. Dinnertime conversations are a great way to impart your values and let your kids know what is important to you. But an opportunity most people miss is hanging out with your kids while preparing the meal. Many people feel their kids just get in the way in the kitchen, but if you give your kids specific tasks, they can take pride in the meal and spend some valuable time with you. We live in a world of microwave meals and convenience foods, but often, a home cooked meal is worth the effort. Moreso, if you have you little helpers by your side. Here are two great resources with recipes and tips for getting your kids involved in meals. http://www.cookingwithkids.com/part1/challenges.html/ http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes-and-cooking/safe-easy-kitchen-tasks-for-little-fingers/index.html

Feeling overwhelmed? You cook, you clean, and do everything in your power to keep your household running smoothly. All while working a full-time (and sometimes overtime!) job. Isn't that enough? Well, "Our children, for the most part, are unaware of the myriad of things that we do FOR them. However, they are fully aware of the things which we do WITH them." (http://www.raisingsmallsouls.com/quality-time-with-children/). Sometimes it's OK to let the cleaning slip in favor of an impromptu game of tag. Or let dinner be a little late so you can take an extra five minutes to talk with your child about the new piece of artwork on the fridge. Going to the park is all well and good, but just sitting back and watching isn't nearly as meaningful as diving into a game of tag with your kids.

Bringing your experience into the conversation is one of the best way to connect with your children and impart memorable lessons. Instead of family movie night, try talking with your kids over snacks. Or watch a short program together and turn the TV off to discuss it. No matter what their attitudes may say, kids still look to their parents for guidance on how to live their lives. Sharing your experiences while they talk about theirs is a great way to teach values. You can bring your experience as a health care worker to bear, too. For example, if you witnessed an incident of verbal elder abuse, you can compare it to a bullying incident your child witnessed at school. Talk about your feelings and how you each reacted to the situation. It'll help bring your daily work to life for your children, and give you some insight into your kid's lives, too.

Finally, if your children are old enough, see if they might be interested in volunteering at the facility where you work (or a similar facility). They can gain valuable life experience, and maybe a renewed respect for what mom or dad does all day! As with most things in life, it's more about quality than quantity. "While more than half of employed parents guess that their children want more time with them, in fact, most children did not put this on top of their list. Instead, kids wished that their parents would be less stressed and less tired from work." (http://www.familytlc.net/working_parents_teens.html).

Other helpful links:
http://www.kelloggforum.org/working-parents-and-children-effects-problems/
http://www.cookingwithkids.com/
http://life.familyeducation.com/family-time/parenting/36489.html

What CNA's Want

Last week I did an informal survey on my social networks. I asked "What do CNA's want from their job? Better pay? Better hours?" I received quite a few replies stating that better pay and better hours are a given. Wouldn't we all want to be paid better and set our own hours? Of course! So here are the other replies - condensed.

1. Respect, Respect, Respect!

"Respect from DON and/ or co-workers. Then the better job you do you get a raise....I don't see the CNA getting any credit."

2. More Help

3. A Voice

"I can deal with the pay, and the hours, what I want is a voice."

4. A Place to Make Me Feel Good About What I'm Doing

"Everybody wants better pay and hours, but ultimately they want some place to hang their hat, that makes them feel good."

Great input everyone!  Thanks!

Upgrade your CNA license - Med Aide, Restorative Aide - Click Here

 

Top Ten Jobs for the Next Decade and Beyond

Interesting scope of work for the future.  I found the following at: Top Jobs and Career Trends....

I've added links to a few classes at We Care Online that go along with some of these jobs at the end. Check them out!

1. Computer Programmer.
   Even though many American companies actively recruit overseas workers for programming jobs, there is still plenty of work for qualified computer specialists right here in the United States. Security breaches and concerns about potential terrorism have heightened security at many companies. Because "offshoring" computer programming work poses so many security risks, many large employers have reverted to using in-house teams of programmers who can be monitored more carefully. A degree in computer forensics would allow you to become one of the monitors.
   
   In addition, the development of new operating systems and common code bases has allowed many more industries to develop custom software solutions. A decade ago, many companies from wildly different fields might have used the same spreadsheet program. Today, developers with unique backgrounds build specialized applications like databases, point-of-sale systems, and customer relationship networks.
   
   View Related Career Training Programs:
   - Computer Programming Degrees
   - Online Courses in Programming
   - Computer Diploma Programs
   - Security Courses
2. Day Care Provider.
   Until recently, many day care providers struggled with low wages, high stress, and poor job security. With the explosive demand for quality child care, however, many parents are now willing to pay higher premiums to facilities with excellent reputations and strong learning programs. A professional in this industry can command an even higher salary with an early childhood special education degree.
   
   Though some parents lament the reduced emphasis on play activities in many modern day care settings, the consumer demand creates many lucrative opportunities for child development majors who want to follow their passion while earning significant rewards.
   
   View Related Career Training Programs:
   - Day Care Management Diploma
   - Child Psychology Diplomas
   - Early Childhood Education
3. Elder Care Specialist.
   The parents of Baby Boomers relied on large families to share the burden of caring for elderly loved ones. With fewer children to care for them, the Baby Boomers are turning, in record numbers, to professionally operated assisted living facilities. A far cry from yesterday's nursing homes, today's senior communities often integrate luxury amenities like four-star dining, golf, and live entertainment.
   
   Despite the luxury resort setting, each facility relies on teams of qualified healthcare specialists to look after the needs of residents. With government and consumer scrutiny of elder care facilities at an all-time high, employers demand job candidates with proven skills and positive attitudes. Consider a degree in health information technology for a fast-growing job with a minimal amount of clinical work.
   
   View Related Career Training Programs:
   - Gerontology Degrees
   - Life Care Planning Certificates
   - Medical Assisting Courses
4. Employment Specialist.
   Caught between the demands of child care and elder care, more Americans have turned to employment agencies to arrange short term or flexible employment relationships. Likewise, companies that need to scale up or scale down their operations to comply with seasonal customer demand have outsourced their staffing needs to a growing number of professional agencies.
   
   The U.S. Department of Labor identifies "employment placement specialist" as one of the fastest-growing specialties of the coming decade. For people with strong interpersonal skills and a wide range of interests, this position offers the opportunity to connect eager employers with qualified workers. Not only does this career offer significant job satisfaction, it usually pays a commission on the income of placed workers. Therefore, a busy employment specialist can earn a significant income by using her natural matchmaking talents.
   
   View Related Career Training Programs:
   - Human Resources Management Degrees
   - Human Resource Training
   - Career Development Courses
5. Environmental Engineer.
   With the rapid growth of previously small communities all across the country, many local governments and private developers must wrestle with the challenges of rising populations. At the same time, many of our country's more established cities and towns must cope with crumbling infrastructure, such as outdated water and sewer lines or failing electrical supplies.
   
   Environmental engineers play an important role in every community. They oversee new construction and renovation, assuring the preservation of natural resources and the safety of residents. With new, more stringent regulations on the books, many environmental engineers now work for developers and corporations that want to take a proactive approach to their business. By acting in the public interest, these companies can build strong relationships with customers while avoiding damaging fines or even prosecution.
   
   View Related Career Training Programs:
   - Environmental Engineering Degrees
   - Conservation & Environmental Courses
   - Environmental Science Degrees
6. Home Health Aide.
   Many aging Baby Boomers intend to live in their own homes for as long as possible. Likewise, many people who suffer from injuries or illness can avoid the huge expenses of a long hospital stay by recuperating at home. Both of these populations rely heavily on the work of home health aides to maintain their well being.
   
   In many cases, home health aides are nurses who prefer to work in patients' homes instead of in the stressful environment of a hospital or an assisted living facility. Frequently, home health aides benefit from flexible scheduling and short commutes, making this a solid career choice for parents of young children. Some aides can assist licensed professionals without holding a license themselves, offering excellent opportunities to earn income while still completing their degree program.
   
   View Related Career Training Programs:
   - Nursing Degree Programs
   - Medical Assistant Courses
7. Management Consultant.
   A growing number of companies prefer to seek outside help with specialized problems or challenges, rather than attempt to keep experts on their own staffs. As a result, consultants who build reputations for solving client problems can earn significant income by dropping in on clients around the world.
   
   Once dominated by road warriors, the consulting arena has opened up to a variety of professionals, thanks to new networking technology. With qualifications and insight earned from years of experience and study, a consultant might work from home while helping clients all over the world.
   
   Many professionals who have grown bored with their companies or with their careers can shake things up by setting up shop as a consultant. In fact, many consultants launch their practices while still holding down a day job or completing an advanced degree program.
   
   View Related Career Training Programs:
   - Management Degrees
   - Business Management Courses
   - Small Business Management Courses
8. Networking Specialist.
   Unlike a traditional computer programmer, who focuses on solving problems with software, a networking specialist must figure out how to keep all of the various devices in an organization connected to each other. As networking grew from an offshoot of computer engineering into its own specialty, many professionals learned how to efficiently manage a company's information flow through hidden cables and routers.
   
   Technology continues to advance, so new and different jobs are constantly emerging. Today's networking specialist, for example, must integrate wireless devices like phones, laptops, and pagers into their data structures. Whether working for a private employer, an Internet service provider, or a government agency, networking specialists must work on-site to install and maintain highly specialized equipment. With new generations of networking hardware emerging every few years, this is a professional role that can never be delegated to overseas workers.
   
   View Related Career Training Programs:
   - Network Administration & Management Degrees
   - Network Security Degrees
   - Network Training Courses
9. Physician's Assistant. As more Americans seek medical treatment more frequently, many doctor's offices struggle to keep up with demand. High malpractice insurance rates and the pursuit of less stressful, more lucrative careers are diverting potential doctors into other fields of study. Therefore, many medical practices rely more frequently on physician's assistants to bridge an important gap in the health care process.
   
   Students who enjoy medicine but do not wish to pursue a full medical degree can launch careers as physician's assistants after only a few years of training. They perform tests, file reports and handle other routine tasks, freeing up doctors to spend more time diagnosing illnesses and researching cures. In some states, physician's assistants can even prescribe medication. An online physician assistant master's program can qualify you for one of these upper-level roles.
   
   View Related Career Training Programs:
   - Physician Assistant Degrees
   - Medical Assistant Programs
10. Social Services Coordinator. With more senior citizens applying for government benefits and many families leaving large cities for smaller towns, many government agencies and non-profit organizations seek qualified social services coordinators. These specialists assure that residents of a community can take full advantage of assistance programs. They also monitor the safety and wellness of individuals, especially young children and older adults that could become the victims of abuse, crime, or fraud. An online social work degree can qualify you for this rewarding career.

We Care Online Classes:

Home Health Aide for KS
Social Service Designee for MO, KS, CA, OK
Certified Nurse Aide for SD, KS, NE
Restorative Aide

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Elder Abuse and Neglect

Every year, tens of thousands of elderly Americans are abused in their own homes, in relatives’ homes, and even in  facilities responsible for their care. You may suspect that an elderly person you know is being harmed physically or emotionally by a neglectful or overwhelmed caregiver or being preyed upon financially. By learning the signs and symptoms of elder abuse and how to act on behalf of an elderly person who is being abused, you’ll not only be helping someone else but strengthening your own defenses against elder abuse in the future.

It’s difficult to take care of a senior when he or she has many different needs, and it’s difficult to be elderly when age brings with it infirmities and dependence. Both the demands of caregiving and the needs of the elder can create situations in which abuse is more likely to occur.

Many nonprofessional caregivers, spouses, adult children, other relatives and friends find taking care of an elder to be satisfying and enriching. But the responsibilities and demands of elder care giving, which escalate as the elder's condition deteriorates, can also be extremely stressful. The stress of elder care can lead to mental and physical health problems that make caregivers burned out, impatient, and unable to keep from lashing out against elders in their care.

Among caregivers, significant risk factors for elder abuse are

• Inability to cope with stress (lack of resilience)
• Depression, which is common among caregivers
• Lack of support from other potential caregivers
• The caregiver's perception that taking care of the elder is burdensome and without psychological reward

Substance abuse

Even caregivers in institutional settings can experience stress at levels that lead to elder abuse. Nursing home staff may be prone to elder abuse if they lack training, have too many responsibilities, are unsuited to care giving, or work under poor conditions.

The elder's condition and history

Several factors concerning elders themselves, while they don't excuse abuse, influence whether they are at greater risk for abuse:

• The intensity of an elderly person's illness or dementia
• Social isolation; i.e., the elder and caregiver are alone together almost all the time
• The elder's role, at an earlier time, as an abusive parent or spouse
• A history of domestic violence in the home

The elder's own tendency toward verbal or physical aggression

In many cases, elder abuse, though real, is unintentional. Caregivers pushed beyond their capabilities or psychological resources may not mean to yell at, strike, or ignore the needs of the elders in their care. (The preceding is an excerpt from helpguide.org.  Click HERE for the full article.)

Below is  presentation with more information on Elder Abuse.

All About Online Learning

What is e-learning?

E-Learning can be a lot of different things to different people and organizations. But for this blog we are using the typical Internet based learning for our definition.

Taking a class online, via the Internet, means using your computer’s internet connection to log in to a website and access course information. The course can include course reading, internet research, textbook reading, video, discussion board and many other ways to learn your course curriculum.

Why are people using online learning?

Lots of colleges and universities use e-learning, or distance learning, as a tool to reach more students. For the student, online education means less travel, working at your own pace and most of all, convenience.

More and more students are turning to online learning as a means to meet their needs. It is especially advantageous for those who work and have families at home.

What are the advantages to online learning?

Online learning allows the student to work when he has time to work on the class. That time may be early in the morning before going to work, before the kids are awake. Or late in the evening after everyone is asleep. She can chop away at the class in whatever time increments are available, 30 minutes or 3 hours.

Depending on the student’s location and class, an online class can also be financially wise. If he lives in a rural location, driving back and forth to school is not always possible. Online courses open up the choices, allowing the student to choose a school/university outside her range of travel. With an online class, all he has to do is turn on his computer!

What are the disadvantages?

Technological restrictions are probably the biggest disadvantage to an online class. The student must have an Internet connection. It is best to have a DSL or cable modem. A dial up connection can be used, but most courses have lots of information and media to be used. Using the dial up can be frustratingly slow.

The student should also be familiar with a computer and internet. For the student who knows nothing about internet, the online course can be discouraging. If she is not familiar, then she should have someone available to help her navigate the internet and course activities.

Sometimes an Internet course can be expensive. Some colleges charge more for the online version of their courses because someone has to create and monitor the course. Check around to make sure the course isn’t available elsewhere for a better price.

What can help you become a good online learner?

Time management. The biggest roadblock of online learning is learning to manage time. Once the student experiences the freedom of being able to access their course at their convenience, it’s easy to keep putting it off. Designate specific times to be online, working on the course or reading.

Social interaction. We all need contact with others. With an online class, it’s easy to for the student to become isolated. Use the discussion boards, chat and other means available within the course to stay in contact with other students and instructors.

Ask questions. Asking questions is integral to a students learning. Be sure to ask questions of the instructor and/or other students via email, discussion or chat. Asking questions also helps in retaining information learned.

Stay motivated. Keep the goal in mind. Don’t lose focus. Think about what you’re going to do once the course is completed. Is it one less course toward a degree? Does it mean certification in a position with a raise?

Start small – baby steps.

Think about taking a short, easy course first. Thriving in a smaller course will be a confidence booster to move on to the next bigger course!

Below are a few links about online learning that may be of interest to you.

Quiz – are you ready for e-learning?

Is online learning REALLY better?

Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Learning

Check out our online courses at: wecareonlineclasse.com

Safe Transfer Techniques

Safety and the Home Health Aide

A Home Health Aide brings modern home health to patients in the special warmth of their home. Receiving care at home brings rest and reassurance to patients and their loved ones. Being a Home Health Aide is a very rewarding career.

For some, going into a new neighborhood or unfamiliar home can be scary. Most patients and their families are generally not a threat. However, it is always good to be aware of safety issues around you.

Here are a few tips to help make your job safe and to reduce your fear so that you can focus on helping your patient.

The following is adapted from practicenotes.org. Before you enter a family's home, you should have a safety action plan. This plan should include precautions that will help you avoid stepping into a dangerous situation. It should also contain strategies that will help you manage a confrontation if one occurs.

Safety Assessment. To gather the basic information you need for an action plan, you should conduct a safety assessment of the situation. Doing a safety assessment before you leave the office will allow you to decide what preventative measures you should take, such as who to bring (going out in teams), when to visit (preferably during daylight hours), and how to proceed.

As a first step in this assessment, learn what you can about the family's history: have they had violent encounters with the police, schools, or social services? Is there a history of mental illness in the family? Have they had negative interactions with your agency in the past? Some of these details will be noted in agency records. For others, you may need to consult informal sources, such as your supervisor, coworkers, or colleagues.

Also, give serious consideration to the street, neighborhood, or area where the family lives. You will want to exercise extra caution—for example, avoid wearing jewelry—in known drug areas, isolated places, or high crime areas. No matter where you are going, be sure your car has enough gas and is in good working order.

Although many times you will not be able to learn much about a family, even a little information can help you make an informed judgment.

Safety Action Plan. When you've found out what you can, make a plan. Be sure to follow any safety protocols or policies your agency has (for example, leave information about where you are going).

In addition, the article, "Sample Action Plan for Safety", contains suggestions for keeping yourself safe on a visit. And trust your instincts. If something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't. Try to figure out why, and decide what to do. Observing your surroundings is key.

No matter how thorough you are, safety assessments and action plans are not magic bullets. If they are to work at all, you must remain alert and observant once you are in a family's home.

Situations for the Home Health Aide to avoid. (From our Home Health Aide online class)

Do only what and exactly what your case manager instructs you to do! There are some situations you should recognize and avoid. Doing more than is assigned. Practice saying "no" in a tactful way, encouraging the client to contact the case manager if more services are wanted. When you do something that was not assigned, you are assuming responsibility (liability) for these acts and your agency is no longer responsible.

Doing less than is assigned. This may put the client in danger and lead to a charge of negligence, which means "an action or lack of action that leads to an accident or injury." Doing hasty, careless, or poor-quality work. You have received training in the proper way to carry out your work activities; it is your responsibility to work carefully.

Doing hasty, careless, or poor-quality work. You have received training in the proper way to carry out your work activities; it is your responsibility to work carefully. Sometimes, even with the greatest amount of care being taken, accidents happen: A valuable vase breaks while you are dusting it or a client falls. If you have been carrying out your assigned duties and exercising a reasonable amount of care, you usually are not held liable for the damage or injury that results; agencies carry liability insurance to cover these types of accidents.

Using your car for work activities.This applies to transporting a client in your car, even when you are taking the client to the doctor's office or just out for a ride, without letting your car insurance agency know. If an accident occurs, you might be liable for the resulting damage and you may be required to personally pay for those damages, if you do not have proper coverage. Be sure your driver's license is current and in good standing, that your car is in good repair; and have approval of your agency to take the client in your car. Also, check to see if you will be paid mileage for use of your car by your agency. Before employing an individual, some agencies will require that the home health aide has a valid driver's license, car, and proper automobile insurance.

Failing to do accurate and daily reporting and documentation.You are in a hurry and decide not to chart today on your client, cut plan to do it the next day when you will have more time. The client's daughter comes to visit her mother and sees that northing is written on the chart that day and immediately assumes that no one was there to care for her mother. The daughter becomes quite upset over this incident, which could have easily been avoided, and calls the home health agency. ailing to act in an emergency.

Failing to act in an emergency. You should know what the emergency plan is for each client you care for, and you should be prepared to follow it. In a life-threatening situation, call 911 if available in your area. If 911 service is not available, call for an ambulance before calling your case manager. There are few exceptions before calling an ambulance in an emergency. In some cases the family wants to be notified first before calling an ambulance. This information should be clearly stated in the client's care plan. Some agencies may require you to be CPR/first aid certified before you are hired. Do not try to perform first aid or cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if you have not been trained to do so.

Attempting to do things that are beyond your abilities. It is okay to say, "I don't know how to do that. Let's see if we can get someone who does." You are not employed as a nurse, a plumber, an electrician, or a counselor.....do not try to be one.

Injuring yourself or the client by doing something you are not assigned or adequately trained to do. If you have been assigned to do something you do not feel comfortable doing, ask for more training. Trying to do something without assignment and adequate training, such as moving a client with a Hoyer lift, can leave you liable for injury those results. that later cause injury to you or another home health aide. Do not take unnecessary risks. Follow the agency procedures for reporting.

Be proud of your job has a Home Health Aide! Follow your agency’s safety policies and you’ll be giving the best care possible to your patients!

Find out more about our Home Health Aide online courses for Kansas by clicking here.