{ 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