The Holistic Nursing Assistant 13 Honesty and Integrity Honesty and integrity (strong moral principles) are very important to resident safety. If you make a mistake, you must always tell the truth about what happened. Do not try to cover up the mistake. Residents’ health and well-being depend on your honesty. No matter how busy you are or how unimportant you think information is, never leave out details or information about a resident’s condition or about care given when reporting or documenting. Flexibility Being able to complete a wide range of duties and being able to work independently, when appropriate, are important qualities for any holistic nursing assistant. You may see different residents every day, so become familiar with adjusting to change and to working with new people. You should also be flexible about your schedule, as you may have to work different hours every week, long shifts, or unusual hours. A respectful attitude will help you succeed in your position. Having positive regard, or an attitude that is supportive and accepting of others, is another way of demonstrating respect. As a nursing assistant, you may come across difficult situations that require dignity and compassion. Nursing assistants see residents who are injured, ill, irritable, anxious, lonely, impatient, and depressed. Nursing assistants may also work with residents who are dying. Being compassionate when caring for residents who are dealing with these difficult life situations can ease their pain (Figure 1.9). Heartfelt kindness can go a long way. Work Ethic, Reliability, and Dependability It is important to arrive to work on time. This demonstrates a positive work ethic, or a belief that your work is important. You are responsible to your coworkers and those in your care to be ready for work when you are scheduled. Be thorough, follow policies, immediately let licensed nursing staff know when you observe any changes in a resident’s condition, and be accurate and timely in your reporting and documentation. Trustworthiness Both your coworkers and those in your care will appreciate working with someone they can trust. Be trustworthy by keeping information confidential and documenting it in the proper place. You must take this part of your role and responsibilities very seriously. It is your legal and ethical responsibility to protect personal and medical information. HEALTHCARE SCENARIO Employee of the Year The adult center in your city recently announced that Loretta Sanchez was named employee of the year. Loretta has been employed by the center for the past 15 years as a nursing assistant. The executive director of the center was pleased to share that Loretta was nominated and received the award due to her dedication and loyalty to the center. Loretta’s caring and compassionate approach with residents, staff, and families also influenced the selection. In particular, the report noted that Loretta has a very positive attitude, has a smile on her face, and always has a good word to share. She works well with her team and is ready and willing to take on extra projects and assignments. The executive director of the center stated that Loretta is “an inspiration and a great role model for her peers.” Apply It 1. List Loretta’s professional qualities and behaviors. 2. Why do you think the executive director of the center feels Loretta is an “inspiration and a great role model” for her coworkers? Photographee.eu/Shutterstock.com Figure 1.9 Nursing assistants promote a healing environment by showing respect and compassion to residents. Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.