14 Chapter 1 Being professional means putting the resident first. No matter the circumstances, never let your personal feelings and needs get in the way of providing quality care. Being professional also means maintaining high standards. Nursing assistants who act in a professional manner will earn reputations as being people who seek the best for those in their care. Acting in a professional manner at work will allow you to relax during your free time, knowing you have done a good job. Residents depend on nursing assistants. When you are a nursing assistant, residents will put their trust in you. Therefore, you must demonstrate the professional qualities, attitudes, and behaviors you would want to see in somebody who was caring for you or your loved one. What Are Personal and Professional Boundaries? As a nursing assistant, you will be expected to demonstrate professional behaviors and establish helping and caring relationships with residents. Boundaries, or accepted and expected limits on behavior or actions, are a basic part of all relationships. Both personal and professional boundaries exist for everyone, and particularly for nursing assistants, regardless of the healthcare facility. Therefore, when acting within one’s role as a nursing assistant, you must recognize and maintain these boundaries. Maintaining personal and professional boundaries will help you establish appropriate relationships with residents and their families (Figure 1.10). Teamwork Always work toward being a productive, helpful, and supportive member of the healthcare team. Be aware of and sensitive to ways you can assist other staff. Supporting your coworkers will help increase the quality of your care. This also pays off when other staff members give in return and help you when you need assistance. Positive Relationships When you provide care, you will often have close contact with residents’ family members, friends, and significant others. Establishing positive relationships with these people will help you provide quality care and create a positive, healing environment. Be calm, kind, supportive, and ready to help when needed. Remember to enjoy what you are doing. A positive attitude will improve the quality of care you provide. Communication Skills As a holistic nursing assistant, try to understand the differences and diversity of those in your care. Be courteous and communicate clearly and directly when interacting with others in person, on the phone, or by e-mail. Also be sure documentation is well written and easily understood. Nonverbal communication, such as gestures and body language, must be considered and should be appropriate to the people you are speaking with and to the situation. You will learn more about developing strong communication skills in Chapter 12. CULTURE CUES Understanding Culture Culture includes traditions, beliefs, rituals, customs, and values (ideals) that are learned over time and are specific to a group of people. Think about your own culture and its effect on how you understand and demonstrate professional and caring behaviors. Your family culture may also influence the way you treat others. For example, you may find it difficult to talk with older or sick residents if you have never done so before. You may not have experienced a specific resident’s culture and may be unsure how to respond to the resident’s specific needs. Apply It 1. How has your family culture influenced your ability to demonstrate caring behaviors? 2. If caregiving does not come naturally to you, how can you become more comfortable when giving care? 3. Ask your instructor for feedback about ways you can become more comfortable helping others. Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.