Role of Support Workers:
- Direct Care: Assisting clients with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and feeding while ensuring dignity and safety.
- Emotional Support: Providing companionship and mental health stimulation.
- Health Assistance: Medication reminders, reporting health changes, and basic emergency responses.
- Advocacy: Liaising with families and professionals, respecting client preferences.
- Holistic Approach: Addressing physical, psychological, social, and cultural needs.
Key Responsibilities:
- Personal care
- Nutrition and mobility assistance
- Social and emotional engagement
- Light housekeeping
- Documentation and reporting
- Maintaining confidentiality
Compassionate Care Principles:
- Respecting dignity and privacy
- Providing individualized, empathetic care
- Encouraging independence
- Holistic and culturally sensitive practices
Integration in Healthcare Teams:
Support workers serve as a link between clients and healthcare professionals, contributing to team communication, observation, and care plan implementation.
ADLs vs. IADLs:
- ADLs: Basic self-care tasks (e.g., bathing, eating).
- IADLs: Complex activities for independent living (e.g., managing finances, transportation).
Professionalism in Support Work:
- Ensures consistency and quality care.
- Builds trust and promotes teamwork.
- Enhances ethical care and fosters ongoing learning.
