11.2.3: Personal Safety

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Erin O'Hara-Leslie, Amdra C. Wade, Kimberly B. McLain, SUNY Broome

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It is important that Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides take precautions to keep themselves safe while working within the community and in the patient’s home. They should follow these guidelines to protect their safety.

Always know the route. Have maps and directions with you and know where you are going in advance. If needed, call the patient for directions or obtain them from the agency prior to leaving for the destination.
If you have a cell phone, keep it charged and with you. Do not use it while driving.
Do not take unsafe shortcuts while driving or walking to and from a patient’s home.
Never alter your route without telling the agency. Always inform a supervisor about your whereabouts.
Observe surroundings at all times and remain vigilant. Do not become distracted by talking, music, or using a cell phone.
Keep your eyes on the road while driving and look around at your surroundings while walking to and from a patient’s home.
Do not carry a purse, large amounts of money, or wear expensive jewelry. This makes you a target for possible thieves. If you must carry a purse or belongings, hold them securely against your body.
Lock your car and keep valuables hidden in the trunk, out of sight.
Carry your keys in your hand so that you can quickly unlock your door.
Park in well-lit areas and try to park as close to the patient’s home as possible to reduce walking time.
If you ever feel unsafe, leave the area immediately and go to a safer location. Call a supervisor for assistance.

Self Check Activity \(\PageIndex{1}\)

True or False

1. It is okay to use your cell phone while driving as long as it is to call a supervisor. True or False? ____________

Multiple Choice

2. Which of the following are ways to keep safe? Select all.

a). Do not carry a purse.

b). Lock car doors.

c). Always inform a supervisor if there is a change in route or appointment.

d). Keep aware of your surroundings while walking or driving.

e). Park in well-lit areas.

f). Leave an area if you feel unsafe.

Answer

1. False

2. All answers are correct

FEEDBACK:

1. Never use your phone while driving, regardless of reason. Always pull into a safe location and stop driving if you must use your phone.

2. Ways the HHA/PCA can keep safe include not carrying a purse, locking car doors while driving or parked, inform others such as a supervisor if you have a change in your route, be observant of your surroundings, park in well-lit areas, and never stay in an area if you feel unsafe.