Tips: • Always use gloves when performing patient/client care. This is to protect you. Gloves are removed by turning one glove inside out, placing the first glove in the palm of the second gloved hand, and then turning the second glove inside out over the first glove. • Laundry should be held away from the body using gloved hands. • Broken glass (i.e., glass thermometers) should not be picked up directly with your hands. • Each patient/client should have a thermometer for their use only. After using the thermometer, wipe it with alcohol and store it in the holder. • Report to the supervisor immediately if you have a needle stick injury or if you see needles in the trash or bed. • The supervisor will educate the patient/client on how to dispose of needles properly. If your patients/clients use needles in the home, let the patient/client handle the needle – not you! • Personal protective equipment (PPE) includes gloves, gowns, face shields with mask and eye cover, and pocket resuscitation masks. The Agency will supply this equipment. Cleaning Equipment Review the following policy and procedure: Online Bookmark Title of Policy Surveillance, Prevention, and Control of Infection (IC) Cleaning and Management of Supplies and Equipment Death and Dying Overview The home health aide must be able to examine his or her feelings about death, and they must be aware of the feelings and behaviors of the dying patient/client. The patient’s/client’s feelings will influence the care provided by the aide, and the aide’s feelings will influence the manner in which care is provided to the patient/client. Emotional Reactions to Dying There is no time to prepare for death when it comes accidentally or swiftly, but most persons who approach death because of advanced age or a terminal illness go through a sequence of feelings and behavior. According to Dr. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, dying persons and their families typically progress through a sequence of reactions: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance.
