{

Qualities of a Healthcare Worker

Principles of Health Science

{Professional Appearance

Your appearance communicates level of confidence and a positive self image.

Research has shown that within 20 seconds up to 4 minutes, people form an impression about another person based mainly on their appearance.

Rules about appearance may vary.

Certain professional standards apply to most health careers and should be observed as a professional.Creating a Positive

Impression

Healthcare involves promotion of health and preventing disease; healthcare workers serve as role models

Five main factors the contribute to good health: Diet – eating healthy Rest – adequate sleep for energy and dealing with

stress Exercise – maintains circulation, improves muscle

tone, enhances mental attitude, aids in weight control, contributes to more restful sleep

Good posture – prevents fatigue, less stress on muscles

Avoid use of tobacco and drugs – use of these substances can be detrimental to health

Promoting Health

Required in many healthcare occupations

Should be neat, well fitting, clean, and free from wrinkles

Some facilities require certain color uniforms for certain departments

Name badges with photo IDs are expected to be worn by all employees at all times

White shoes are preferred in most settings; shoes need to be clean, properly fitted and provide good support

Uniform

Essential because you will be working very closely with other people.

Strong odors such as those caused by tobacco, perfumes, aftershave lotions, etc. can be offensive and should be avoided.

Nails should be kept short, clean, and natural. Many healthcare facilities prohibit artificial nails.

Hair should be kept clean, neat, and easy to care for while at work.

Jewelry is usually not permitted due to possible injury and germ transmission. Exceptions: wedding ring, watch, small “stud” pierced earrings

Personal Hygiene

Excessive makeup is discouraged.

Tattoos that are visible are prohibited in many healthcare facilities. Some facilities require that all tattoos be covered by clothing at all times.

Learn and follow the policies established by your workplace.

Makeup and Tattoos

{Personal Characteristics

Certain personal characteristics are attitudes apply to all health occupations

You should make every effort to develop these characteristics and attitudes

Personal Characteristics

Desirable Characteristics

Empathy Respect Responsibility Dependable Patience

Acceptance of Criticism

Enthusiasm Self-Motivation Discretion Collaboration

Your vocab words!!!

{Communication

Communication is the exchange of information, thoughts, ideas, and feelings.

Communication process includes three essential elements:

Sender – person creating the message Message – information ideas, or thoughts Receiver – individual who receives the

message

Feedback is a method that can be used to determine that communication was successful.

Communication

Clear message – must be in terms the sender and receiver both understand.

Clear and concise message – correct pronunciation and use of good grammar are important.

Receiver must be able to hear and receive the message. Ex. medicated patients, hearing impaired, limited English, etc.

Receiver must be able to understand the message – avoid the use of unfamiliar terminology.

Avoid interruptions or distractions. Ex. telephones, bright lights, children misbehaving, etc.

Elements of Effective Communication

Listening is another essential part to effective communication.

Listening means paying attention to and making an effort to hear what is being said.

Good listening skills include: Be alert and maintain eye contact Avoid interrupting Avoid thinking about how you are going to

respond More?

Listening

Verbal and Nonverbal

Verbal spoken word

Nonverbal facial expressions body language touch etc.

Nonverbal is said to be around 90% of all communication

When verbal and nonverbal messages agree, the receiver is more likely to understand

Barriers to Communication

Physical Disabilities

Deafness or hearing loss

Blindness or impaired vision

Aphasia or speech impairment

Psychological Barriers Prejudice, attitude, or

personality Stereotypes may cause snap

judgments about the individual Examples?

Fear is often the cause of a negative attitude in your patient

Healthcare workers must learn to put prejudice aside

{Teamwork & Leadership

Teamwork consists of many professionals with different ideas, backgrounds, and interests, working together for the good of the patient

Teamwork improves communication and continuity of care

Every person on the team must understand the role of each team member

Good interpersonal relationships are essential

A leader is an important part of any team

Teamwork

Democratic – one who encourages the participation of all individuals in decisions that have to be made or problems that have to be solved in their workplace

Laissez-faire – more informal, does not interfere, minimal rules or regulations, “hands off” attitude

Autocratic – dictator, total rule, makes all decisions

Types of Leaders