10 Care of the Home and Personal Belongings
Introduction
Maintaining a clean and organized home is an important task of the Home Health Aide/Personal Care Aide. It helps to provide a home free of infection and pests and promotes good hygiene and physical and psychological well-being. This module will explore the purpose of housekeeping and discuss how housekeeping in a patient’s home is different than in one’s own home. We will learn the importance of using proper body mechanics and how to prioritize tasks in order to be as efficient as possible. We will explore different types of cleaning products and why each are used. Finally, we will discuss important housekeeping tasks to be completed in each room of the house, as well as how to do laundry.
Unit A: Importance of Housekeeping in the Home
Housekeeping is an essential task of the Home Health Aide/Personal Care Aide. It helps to enhance a patient’s quality of life. When a patient’s home is clean and organized it helps them to feel better psychologically and it keeps them safer physically (Leahy, Fuzy & Grafe, 2013). During times of illness, there may be much stress, disorganization, and even chaos in the home. Becoming ill and dealing with disease, disability, or injury can be stressful. It can also occupy a great deal of the patient and family’s time, which leads to requiring assistance with keeping their home clean. Helping to keep the patient’s home clean and safe is one important way that Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides can help the family during their time of need.
Having a clean home is important for infection control. Proper disinfection removes microorganisms. Microorganisms are bacteria, fungus, and viruses that can cause disease. Maintaining a safe and clean home also helps to prevent accidents and further injury or disability. Tidying up on a regular basis allows Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides to prevent accidental falls.
Many people take great pride in their home. When they are sick or disabled, they may not be able to maintain their home the way they used to or would like. With assistance from a HHA/PCA, they can have a living space that reflects the pride they have in their home. Some patients may not have good knowledge of how to maintain a clean home. With the support and assistance of a HHA/PCA, they can learn proper cleaning techniques and household management skills. Having this knowledge will help to enhance a patient’s independence, self-esteem, ability to feel control in their life, and comfort.
Self-Check Activity M10-1
True/False
1. Maintaining clean home helps to prevent the spread of bacteria, viruses, and fungus. True or False? ______
2. Housekeeping is an essential task of the Home Health Aide/Personal Care Aide. True or False? ______
Unit B: Performing Housekeeping in the Home
We all maintain our own living spaces. Each of us has preferred ways of doing things. We have specific cleaning supplies we might especially like. We may like to perform household tasks in a certain order. We may even feel very particular about other people touching our personal belongings. While Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides use the housekeeping skills that they already use to clean their own homes, they can also learn new ones in this course.Remember, cleaning another person’s home is very different than cleaning your own home!
The way Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides do things may be very different from the way their patient does, or prefers to have them done. Remember though, that there is more than one way to complete a task. Remember also that the patient’s preferences are always correct and must be respected. Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides must always be conscious (aware) of respecting their patient’s belongings, their preferences, and their cultural values and practices (Leahy, Fuzy & Grafe, 2013).
Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides will be using equipment and cleaning supplies different from their own. They should find out how to use their patient’s equipment correctly. Ask the patient to explain how to use it, read the manufacturer’s instruction booklet, or seek assistance from a supervisor. They should ask their patient to tell them how they would like their home to be cleaned and the cleaning supplies they prefer them to use. Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides must remember when completing tasks in which they must move the patient’s belongings to always put them back where they were. They shouldn’t take it upon themselves to rearrange their patient’s belongings or furniture. Think about how you might feel if someone came into your home and started to rearrange your things because they thought their way was best! Handle the patient and family’s belongings carefully. Replacing items, especially equipment, can be very expensive.
While it is important to encourage independence and support a patient’s ability to perform household tasks independently, Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides should always be sensitive to their limitations (Leahy, Fuzy & Grafe, 2013). They may not be able to physically complete a task that others may find very simple. They may also not be able to psychologically handle the extra burden or stress of cleaning or performing other household tasks. Do not be judgmental about their abilities. Instead, Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides should work with them to find the tasks that they are able to do. Find creative ways to adapt tasks to their abilities. For example, a patient may not be able to stand for long periods of time. However, they may be able to very successfully perform many household tasks seated. They could fold laundry, iron clothing, prepare food, and even vacuum from a seated position!
Self-Check Activity M10-2
True or False
1. It is okay to clean your patient’s home the way you normally clean yours. After all, you know how to clean!True or False? __________
2. Patients should be expected to keep their own home clean, and do the majority of the cleaning tasks, even if they are physically ill or stressed. True or False? __________
Unit C: Ways to Be Safe and Save Energy and Time
Using proper body mechanics is of utmost importance. Proper body mechanics means using the body in an efficient and safe way. Using proper body mechanics prevents Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides from injuring themselves or a patient. Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides should always be aware of performing tasks safely, and they should also encourage their patient to do the same. Show a patient safe ways of doing things and good body mechanics. Remember, using proper body mechanics helps prevent injury. This applies to both Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides and their patients! Review the procedure in Module 12 for how to use Proper Body Mechanics.
Maintaining Proper Body Mechanics
- When standing, keep your feet about hip width apart (about 12 inches). This provides a strong base of support and balance for you to work.
- Always bend at your hips and knees when lifting or stooping, instead of bending at the waist and overextending your back.
- Use the larger and stronger muscles of your thighs, hips, shoulders, and upper arms while bending or lifting objects. This protects your back and smaller muscles from injury.
- Hold heavy objects close to your body when lifting or carrying them.
- Turn your entire body, including your head and legs toward the task you are doing, rather than twisting.
- Remember good posture. Keep your back and trunk straight and aligned with your hips and your head facing forward toward the direction you are working. This prevents twisting, which increases your risk of injury.
- Always raise the bed to waist height when working with a patient who is in bed, or making a bed. This prevents unnecessary bending of your back.
- When pushing, place one leg forward. When pulling, move one leg back. This provides you with a stronger and more stable base of support than if both legs were next to each other.
- Whenever possible, have another person help you with lifting, rolling, or moving patients.
- Have others help you with lifting or moving heavy objects.
- Do not perform tasks that will be physically dangerous to you, or for which you may not physically be capable.
- Keep in mind that when moving a patient, the path or direction in which you are moving must be clear of objects that could get in the way and cause potential injury.
- Always lock the brakes on the bed and wheelchair before transferring a patient. This prevents the bed or wheelchair from moving and causing potential injury to you or the patient.
Self-Check Activity M10-3
1. When standing, you should have your feet about this many ____________ inches apart.
a). 10 inches
b). 20 inches
c). 12 inches
d). 5 inches
2. When bending to pick up something, you should bend at the waist. True or False? _______
3. Wheelchair and bed brakes should always be locked before transferring a patient. True or False? ______
Time Management
Prioritizing and staying organized will help Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides to make the most efficient use of their time and energy. In some households, Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides may only be required to do a few household tasks. For other households, there may be several tasks for them to complete. It is often helpful to make a list of tasks that must be done. Always follow the Care Plan and perform the tasks it states. If a patient asks a HHA/PCA to perform a task in which they are not comfortable, they should use the good communication skills they learned in this course to speak with them about it. Inform a supervisor and seek guidance from him or her.
Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides should encourage their patient to assist and perform tasks as they are able. Between both people, they may be able to perform many tasks. This will help promote their self-esteem and independence, while also efficiently using time. Document the time it takes to complete tasks on the Care Plan. Never document a task was completed before it was done.
Always remember that providing personal care to the patient is the FIRST priority of a HHA/PCA. They must never neglect or ignore a patient’s needs in order to complete a household task. It is helpful, however, to learn to plan time and prioritize tasks in order to complete all that is required.
Make a Task List
On a piece of paper, Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides should write down all the things they must complete during their time in the patient’s home as the Care Plan directs. Look at all the tasks that must be completed during the week and during the month. Some items may only need to be done once per week or month.
Prioritize Tasks
Prioritizing tasks means placing the tasks in order of importance. For example, it is more important to focus on meeting a patient’s needs such as eating and toileting than it is to do household chores such as laundry or vacuuming. This does not mean that the HHA/PCA does not complete the household chores. It means if a patient has an important need such as bathing, toileting, or eating, that those needs should be met prior to completing household tasks such as laundry or sweeping. Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides can learn to prioritize by using several methods. Here, we will discuss the ABC method and the 1-10 method. You can view these and other helpful time management tips by visiting Planet of Success at: http://www.planetofsuccess.com/effective–time–management/
The ABC Method
Learn to prioritize by the ABC method.
-
- A: Tasks which are important and urgent at this time.
- B: Tasks which are important but not urgent at this time.
- C: Tasks which are not important and not urgent at this time.
After making a task list, go through it and mark which items should be A, B, or C. Those that are marked A should be completed today. Once those are completed, move on to complete tasks that are marked “B”. Tasks that are labeled “C” can be completed as time allows. Remember though, just because a task is marked “C” does not mean it does not have to be completed. It just may have to be completed at a later time.
Example of a task list using the ABC Method:
A
Provide patient bath
Cook and feed breakfast
Help patient with scheduling doctor appointment
B
Laundry
Make patient bed
Mop kitchen floor
C
Clean out refrigerator
Organize linen closet
Vacuum living room
Grocery shopping
The 1-10 Method
Prioritize using the 1-10 method. Tasks that are most important are ranked “1”, while the least important tasks are ranked “10”. Tasks lists can be organized by priority number or labeled with the priority number. Remember, patient needs and preference will indicate what items will need to be made a priority.
Example of task list using the 1-10 method:
Patient bath#2
Make patient bed#4
Laundry#5
Mop kitchen floor#6
Clean out refrigerator #9
Cook and feed breakfast#1
Vacuum living room#8
Grocery shopping#7
Help patient with scheduling doctor appointment#3
Organize linen closet#10
Tips for Efficient Use of Time
Here are some tips to help Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides make the most efficient use of their time:
- Break down larger jobs into smaller tasks.
- Be flexible and realistic. It is not always possible to get everything done that is on your task list. Sometimes, unexpected situations come up. Complete the highest priority tasks first.
- Revise the task schedule as needed. Instead of going grocery shopping, which takes a longer amount of time, you may instead be able to do a task you intended to complete later in the week and which takes less time, such as laundry.
- Do two things at once whenever possible. This will help you make the most efficient use of your time. For example, you can put laundry in the washing machine and while the loads are cleaning, work on providing a patient bath or cooking a meal.
- Whenever possible, group tasks that can be done in the same place. This helps to eliminate (remove) unnecessary steps.
- After giving a patient a bath and changing the bed linens, gather up all the dirty laundry that is in the room at the same time. Use a laundry basket or hamper to help make the most efficient use of time and energy. Then, take all the clothing at one time to the laundry area, rather than making several trips.
- When cooking, make more than one meal at a time and freeze some for use at a later time.
- Instead of cooking a small batch of a meal, cook a larger quantity and freeze it into smaller portions.
- Be economical with patient supplies. Being economical means being mindful of waste. Use only the necessary amount of cleaners to get the job done. This avoids waste.
- Use baskets, hampers, grocery bags, and trays to help carry several items at once. This helps to reduce the number of steps you must take to complete a task. However, be careful to not overload yourself or carry too much at once.
- Keep supplies organized and in one place. For example, cleaning supplies can be stored under the kitchen sink in a secure cabinet.
- Use the proper tools for the task to be completed. Know how to use the tools correctly and in a safe way. For example, use a chef’s knife instead of a steak knife for chopping food.
- Clean as you go. If something spills, wipe it up right away before it dries or stains. Cleaning stains is often time-consuming.
- While preparing food, clean during preparation to keep your space clean and clutter-free. This will keep you organized and save time in the long run.
- Remember to always use proper body mechanics. Injuries cost us pain, time, and money. Protect your body.
Self-Check Activity m10-4
Self-Check Activity M10-4
Use the ABC method to prioritize the following tasks by putting the tasks in order (A is 1st, B is 2nd, C is 3rd).
Tasks:
A). Provide a bed bath
B). Sweep and mop the kitchen floor
C). Wash the only set of bed linens the patient has, which are soiled.
Unit D: How to Get the Job Done
Infection Control
Proper infection control will help to eliminate pests, bacteria, viruses, and fungi. All of these things can lead to disease.Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides should complete proper hand washing before and after each task. This is the best way to prevent the spread of infection (CDC, 2015). If hot water and soap are not available, use an alcohol based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol (CDC, 2015). Hands should be washed prior to and after contact with the patient and their belongings, prior to and after using the bathroom, prior to, during, and after preparing food, and after changing diapers, handling pets or pet waste, or after coughing or sneezing (CDC, 2015).
Use gloves as appropriate to the situation. Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides should wear gloves whenever they will come into contact with body fluids such as blood, feces, urine, or saliva. Wear gloves when changing patients, assisting them to toilet, bathing, handling dirty linens, or preparing food. Never reuse disposable gloves. Discard them after one use. Review the Handwashing procedure in Module 12 for proper handwashing technique.Use rubber or household gloves when handling harsh chemicals. These gloves can be sanitized and stored for later use.
Use separate cleaning rags and towels for clean and dirty areas. Only use clean dishcloths and towels in the kitchen for handling food. Use a separate cleaning cloth and rubber gloves for the bathroom. Whenever possible, use disposable wipes or cloths for cleaning areas such as the toilet, which have many microorganisms on its surface.
Ensure food is properly stored and refrigerators and freezers are at proper temperatures. Review module 8 for proper food storage procedures. Ensure that packaged food stored in cupboards is kept closed in air tight seals which will prevent spoilage and invasion of pests. If Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides notice evidence of pests such as roaches, lice, bed bugs, or mice, they should inform a supervisor. Additional precautions will need to be taken to rid the patient’s home of infestations.
Self-Check Activity M10-5
True or False
1. The best way to prevent the spread of infection is to practice proper hand washing. True or False? ______
2. Gloves should be used whenever you will come into contact with blood or body fluids. True or False? ______
3. Clean dish towels and rags should be used in the kitchen and whenever food is to be handled. True or False? ______
Basic Supplies and Equipment Needed
To make the most efficient use of time, and to properly clean a patient’s home, Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides will need to use the appropriate cleaning supplies and equipment.
Basic Cleaning Tools
- Broom, dust pan/brush
- Mop, pail
- Toilet brush
- Rags, scrub brush
- Sponges, dish cloths or dish rags
- Vacuum cleaner, carpet sweeper
- Dust mop, dust cloths
- Cleaning products, cleaning wipes, disinfectant
- Rubber household cleaning gloves
Cleaning Products
There are many types of cleaning products on the market. The type used will depend on the surface being cleaned, the purpose of the cleaning, patient preferences, and what is available in the patient’s home. Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides should ask their patient if a cleaner is safe on a particular surface.
- All–purpose cleaners: are generally used for many purposes and on many surfaces. They can be used on countertops, cook ranges, walls, floors, and other surfaces. Always check the label to see what surface the cleanser can be used on. Some cleansers are not safe on surfaces such as unfinished wood. When in doubt, ask the patient and/or a supervisor.
- Disinfectants: are used to disinfect (get rid of germs) surfaces. They can be sprayed on surfaces such as faucet handles, doorknobs, light switches, phone handles, refrigerator handles, and other surfaces. Disinfectants come in many forms, such as sprays, wipes, and solutions.
- Bleach: can be used as a disinfectant and cleaner to clean the bathroom and surfaces such as cutting boards, and for laundering white clothing. Never use full strength bleach on surfaces. To make a cleaning solution using bleach, mix 1 teaspoon (tsp.) of bleach to 1 gallon of water (CDC, 2014). Be cautious of spilling bleach on unsafe surfaces and clothing as it will discolor the surface. Never mix bleach with ammonia or any other cleaner (CDC, 2014). Fumes can be toxic and fatal.
- Soaps and detergents: are used for washing dishes and laundry. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for amount of detergent required for dishwashers and washing machines. Using too much detergent can ruin the appliance.
- Abrasive cleansers: are used for scouring surfaces such as stainless steel sinks and stovetops. These types of cleaners should only be used on certain surfaces as they could ruin surfaces for which abrasive agents should not be used.
- Glass cleaners: are used for glass surfaces such as windows and mirrors.
- Dusting spray: is used for dusting. Dusting spray should be sprayed onto a cleaning cloth and not directly onto the surface to be cleaned.
- Specialty cleansers: are cleansers that are available for special purposes or surfaces. Stovetops, appliances, and electronics may require a specialty cleaner.
Self-Check Activity M10-6
True or False
1. Bleach and ammonia can be mixed to make a disinfectant solution. True or False? ______
2. Any type of cleaner can be used on all surfaces as long as it has disinfectant in it. True or False? ______
Safety Tips for Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides Using Equipment and Supplies:
- NEVER mix cleaning products. Dangerous chemical reactions can occur that can harm you or a patient.
- NEVER mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic and can lead to your or a patient’s death.
- Always follow the instructions on the label of the cleaning product and follow them exactly.
- Whenever possible, open windows while cleaning and be cautious of using chemicals such as ammonia or bleach in closed in spaces. Fumes can be toxic and deadly.
- Always find out how to use equipment by reading instruction manuals or by asking the patient or a supervisor.
- Do not overload equipment on electrical circuits.
- Never use electrical equipment near water. This could result in electrocution and death.
- Always unplug electrical appliances before cleaning.
- Never poke or repair electrical equipment with metal objects.
- Never use electrical equipment with a frayed or damaged cord. This could result in electrocution and death.
- When unplugging appliances, grasp the plug at the base to remove from the electrical outlet. Never pull from the cord as this could damage the cord.
- Keep equipment clean and in good working order. Speak to the patient and supervisor if equipment is in need of repair.
Self-Check Activity M10-7
True or False
1. Bleach and ammonia can be mixed to make a cleaning solution. True or False? ______
2. To remove an electrical appliance such as a vacuum from an electrical outlet, you should pull at the cord.True or False? ______
3. It is okay to wipe down an electrical appliance using a damp sponge and soap as long as it is not plugged in.True or False? ______
Kitchen Cleaning Tasks
The kitchen should be cleaned after every use. Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides should encourage family members to do the same.
Kitchen tasks:
- Wash dishes immediately after use
- Dishes should be washed in hot soapy water using dish detergent.
- Air dry washed dishes and pots rather than using a dishtowel to save time.
- If using a dishwasher, learn how to properly use it. Dishwashers can also be used to sterilize items. Some dishwashers require food to be scraped and plates to be rinsed before loading. Many items cannot be washed in a dishwasher, such as electrical appliances, china, crystal, and cast iron. Always check with the patient.
- Put dishes away after they have air dried.
- Clean the kitchen sink and faucet with a scouring or specialty cleaner once per day.
- Wipe and clean surfaces as you work and at least once per day.
- Take out the garbage daily before you leave for the day.
- Sweep the kitchen floor daily and mop at least once per week, or more if needed. Ensure the floor is dry to prevent falls.
- Stove tops should be cleaned with hot soapy water, an all-purpose or a specialty cleaner. Find out the appropriate type of cleaner to use.
- Ovens are cleaned periodically. Some ovens are self-cleaning while others require direct cleaning with a specialty oven cleaner. Be cautious to use rubber gloves and to not inhale oven cleaner as fumes can be toxic. Ensure no children or pets are around when using oven cleaner as ingestion of the cleaner can be deadly.
- Clean out the refrigerator once per week. Discard items that are spoiled. Wipe surfaces of spills and crumbs. Ensure food is properly spaced in the refrigerator to allow good air circulation.
- Wipe the refrigerator door and any spills inside once per day.
- Defrost the freezer when necessary. When defrosting, all food should be removed and stored in a cooler to keep it cool and prevent spoilage. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to defrost the specific unit a patient has.
- Clean inside cabinets, drawers, and cupboards once or twice per year, or as needed.
Self-Check Activity M10-8
True or False
1. When using an oven cleaner, make sure you wear gloves and that no pets or children are around as the cleaner can be deadly if ingested.True or False? ______
Multiple Choice
2. How often should counter and stove tops be cleaned?
a). Once per week
b). Twice per week
c). Any time they are dirty and at least once per day
d). That’s not my job!
Bathroom Cleaning Tasks
The bathroom is a living space that has many bacteria present due to urine, feces, and blood. It is also a damp and moist space, which encourages many types of bacteria to grow.
Bathroom tasks:
- Wash from clean to dirty areas to prevent spreading dirt or bacteria from dirty to clean areas. The toilet should be washed last and a separate rag from other surfaces should be used for the toilet.
- Ensure the toilet is flushed each time it is used. Encourage household members to do this. Close the lid on the toilet prior to flushing after using the toilet to prevent splashing of urine and feces onto other surfaces.
- The shower and shower surfaces should be wiped down after each use. Ensure the cleaner used is safe for the surface. Scouring cleaners are not safe for use on porcelain and tile as it can scratch.
- Shower walls, tub bottom, shower curtains and doors should all be wiped down daily and thoroughly cleaned at least once per week with an all-purpose or specialty cleaner.
- Hair should be removed from drains to prevent clogs after each bath/shower.
- Used towels should be hung to dry or placed in a laundry hamper to be washed, rather than kept on the floor. This is an important safety precaution. Towels on the floor can lead to falls.
- Bath mats and rugs should be hung to dry off the floor. This will also decrease fall risk.
- The sink should be wiped down after brushing teeth, shaving, or washing to rinse the surface of toothpaste, shaving cream, and cleansers.
- Faucets should be disinfected with an all-purpose cleaner or disinfectant solution daily.
- Toiletries and personal items should be stored and kept organized.
- Mirrors and glass surfaces should be cleaned with glass cleaner and kept clean of splashes.
- Wipe the surface of the toilet lid, toilet cover, and flush handle with a disinfectant cleaner daily.
- Scrub the inside of the toilet bowl with a brush and use an all-purpose cleaner with disinfectant at least once per week. Be sure to scrub under the rim of the toilet. The toilet brush should be washed with a disinfectant solution and allowed to air dry before storing.
- Ensure handrails and safety equipment are in good working order on a daily basis. Inform a supervisor immediately if they are not.
- Vacuum or sweep the floor daily. Wet mop at least once per week. Ensure the floor is dry to prevent falls in the bathroom. Always close off access to rooms that have been mopped to prevent falls.
- Ensure hand towels and bath rugs and mats are clean and dry. Replace with clean towels daily.
- Wipe down hampers and waste baskets with a disinfectant cleanser at least once per week.
Self-Check Activity M10-9
True or False
1. The same cleaning cloth should be used to wipe shower walls, sinks, and toilets in order to save money and time.True or False? ______
2. Bath mats and rugs should be picked up after use to prevent falls.True or False? ______
Multiple Choice
3. Which of these would be the priority task?
a). Cleaning the toilet
b). Wiping the mirror
c). Ensuring handrails in the shower and near the toilet work well.
d). Vacuuming the floor
Living Room Cleaning Tasks
The living room is often a place family spends a great deal of time. It should always appear tidy and organized. Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides can encourage the family to pick up after themselves by modeling this behavior.
Living room tasks:
- Pick up clutter as you see it and at least once per day. Encourage and teach family members to do the same.
- Pick up newspapers, magazines, books, and toys as needed and at least once per day.
- Organize items kept in the living room and store them in their appropriate places.
- Vacuum rugs at least once per week. If there is dirt or food crumbs on the floor, you may need to vacuum more frequently. Crumbs from food attract pests.
- Sweep tile or linoleum floors daily. Mop at least once per week and more if floors are dirty.Always ensure a floor is dry after mopping to prevent falls.
- Dust surfaces once per week or more as required. You can use disposable dust cloths, dusting spray, or rags to remove dust.
- Ensure there are no loose rugs and other trip hazards, such as cords, in order to prevent falls.
- Lamps and lighting sources should be checked for good use. Good lighting helps to prevent falls.
Bedroom Cleaning Tasks
The bedroom is a place where many people sleep and rest. To promote good health, hygiene, and rest, the bedroom should be tidied daily.
Bedroom tasks:
- Pick up clutter as you see it and at least once per day. Encourage and teach family members to do the same.
- Beds should be made daily.
- Bed linens should be changed at least once per week or more as needed and whenever soiled or wet. Patients should never be kept in a bed with soiled or wet bed linens.
- Wastebaskets should be emptied daily and wiped down with a disinfectant at least once per week.
- Dirty linens and clothing should be picked up and stored in a hamper for laundering.
- Clean clothing should be folded and stored in their appropriate places.
- Dust surfaces once per week or more as required. You can use disposable dust cloths, dusting spray, or rags to remove dust.
- Sweep daily to remove dirt, dust, and food crumbs. Mop floors if a tile, linoleum, or vinyl surface at least once per week. Vacuum rugs at least once per week.
- Lamps and lighting sources should be checked for good use. Good lighting helps to prevent falls.
- Ensure there are no loose rugs and other trip hazards, such as cords, in order to prevent falls.
Self-Check Activity M10-10
True or False
1. You should look for and remove trip hazards and ensure rooms are well lit on a frequent basis. True or False? ______
Washing Floors
When washing floors, Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides should always sweep or vacuum first. This helps to remove debris, food crumbs, visible dirt, and dust. Mark off the area to prevent others from entering while the floor is wet. Use the appropriate floor cleaner. Certain cleaners should be used for vinyl, linoleum, or tile and may not be safe for wood surfaces. Other types of cleaners may need to be used for wood surfaces.
Self-Check Activity M10-11
True or False
1. The most important thing to remember about washing floors is to make sure the floor is completely dry before someone walks on it in order to prevent falls.True or False? ______
Laundry
Always wear gloves when handling soiled laundry. Find out how to use the washing machine and dryer by reading the instruction manual, asking the patient, and/or a supervisor. Home Health Aides/Personal Care Aides should talk to their patient about their preferences about how they want their clothing laundered. Some types of clothing should only be hand washed or washed in certain temperatures and with special washing cycles. Some clothing items should not be placed in the dryer.
- Check all pockets for money and other items prior to washing. Return any money found to the appropriate person.
- Separate clothing into piles to be washed. Darks, whites, towels, and delicate items are all usually washed separately from each other.
- Only use the recommended amount and type of laundry detergent. Some machines require high-efficiency detergent. Using more or the wrong kind of detergent can ruin the washing machine.
- Some clothing requires specialty detergent. Baby clothing should only be washed with hypoallergenic and special detergent to prevent skin irritation.
- Never use bleach when washing clothing other than all-white clothing or linen. Check with the patient prior to using bleach to find out their preferences.
- Soiled or stained clothing may require pretreatment with a special cleaner prior to washing. A small amount of liquid detergent or stain treater can be applied to the stain and worked in with a scrub brush or old toothbrush. Whenever possible, treat stains immediately. They are more difficult to remove once set.
- Use the correct temperature for washing the clothing. Use cool or cold water whenever possible to save energy and money. Hot water is generally used for bed linens, towels, and whites. Cold water is generally used for darker items.
- Use the correct wash and dry settings for the clothing to be washed/dried. Normal wash and dry settings can be used for most clothing. Delicate or gentle cycles are typically used for delicate clothing, undergarments, curtains, and tablecloths. Find out the patient’s preferences. Heavier items such as towels and blankets need longer drying times and will usually be set on higher temperatures.
- Use fabric softeners and dryer sheets according to patient preferences. Generally, dryer sheets are not used with towels as it prevents water absorption.
- Clean the lint filter after every use. This prevents fires and helps the dryer to work most efficiently.
- Keep the top of the washing machine and dryer clean. Wipe up laundry detergent spills immediately.
- Fold clothing once dry immediately in order to prevent wrinkling. Store clothing in the appropriate place. Fasten hooks and buttons prior to storing. Always ensure clothing is completely dry prior to storage or mildew can grow.
- When ironing, always check the clothing label for the appropriate iron temperature. Use the lowest setting if you are unsure.
- Use only distilled water in irons to prevent clothing staining from minerals in hard water. Use an ironing board or special surface while ironing to prevent burns to the surface on which you are ironing.
- Always keep the iron moving and never set it on clothing as this will burn and damage the clothing. It could also potentially cause the clothing to set on fire.
- Immediately hang or store clothes once you have finished ironing to prevent wrinkling.
Self-Check M10-12
True or False
1. Bleach can be used with any type of fabric, as it is a good disinfectant. True or False? ______
2. If clothing is very dirty, you can use more detergent than the instructions say. True or False? ______
3. Before washing, clothing should be separated by darks, whites, towels, and delicates. True or False? _____
Post-test
- True or False: Maintaining a clean home helps to prevent the spread of bacteria, viruses, and fungus, and helps promote good mental and physical health.
- True or False: Patient belongings should be carefully handled and care should be taken to put objects back where they were found. Furniture and belongings should not be rearranged unless the patient specifically asks.
- When standing, you should have your feet about this many ____________ inches apart.
- 10 inches
- 20 inches
- 12 inches
- 5 inches
- True or False: Providing personal care and meeting patient needs are a priority for the HHA/PCA. However, proper planning and prioritizing tasks will allow the HHA/PCA to provide personal care and complete required household cleaning tasks.
- Which of the following is the priority task?
- Laundry
- Preparing lunch for the patient
- Patient needs to be turned and positioned and offered the bed pan.
- Which of the following demonstrate proper body mechanics? Select all that apply.
- Turn your entire body instead of twisting your back when moving objects or people.
- Maintain good posture.
- Raise beds to working height and avoid leaning over patients to perform tasks.
- Keep feet hip width apart to provide a strong base of support.
- Bend at the hips and knees instead of the waist when lifting.
- Abrasive cleaners are appropriate for which type of surface?
- Stainless steel sinks and stovetops
- Windows
- Wood floors
- Porcelain bath tubs
- True or False: It is okay to mix bleach or ammonia with other cleaners as the combined effects will make a very good disinfectant solution.
- True or False: To remove an electrical appliance such as a vacuum from an electrical outlet, you should remove it by holding the base of the plug and not the cord.
- True or False: Bleach can be used on any surface or type of clothing as a disinfectant.
- True or False: Bath mats, rugs, and towels should be picked up immediately after use to prevent falls.
- Which of the following is the priority task when performing household duties?
- Folding clean laundry
- Making the patient’s bed
- Closing off the kitchen area from use after it has just been mopped
- Vacuuming the living room
1. True
2. True
FEEDBACK:
1. Keeping a home clean helps prevent the spread of microorganisms and invasion of pests. This provides for a safe environment for the patient.
2. Housekeeping is an essential task of the HHA/PCA. It helps to enhance a patient’s quality of life by helping them to feel better psychologically, and it keeps them safer physically. Becoming ill and dealing with disease, disability, or injury can be stressful. Helping to keep the home clean can bring a sense of organization to a patient and their family.
1. False
2. False
FEEDBACK:
1. The Home Health Aide/Personal Care Aide should always be respectful of patient’s preferences for how their house is cleaned, supplies used, and while handling patient’s belongings. Their home is their own personal space and the HHA/PCA should be mindful of this.
2. Patients may not be physically capable of cleaning their homes due to illness, disease, or disability. It is an important task of the HHA/PCA to provide light housekeeping duties to assist the patient and their family in their time of need. Patients and family members may help within their physical capabilities. The HHA/PCA should never pressure, rush, or make a patient feel badly if they are unable to assist in taking care of their home.
1. C
2. False
3. True
FEEDBACK:
1. When standing, lifting, or pushing, feet should be hip width apart, which is approximately 12 inches.
2. Never bend at the waist when picking up something. Always bend at the knee and lower your body closer to where the object is. Hold heavy objects close to your body as this is your center of gravity and will help prevent injury.
3. Always lock wheelchair and bed brakes before turning, positioning, or transferring a patient. It will help prevent injury to the patient and you.
1. A
2. C
3. B
FEEDBACK:
Using the ABC method of prioritization means following these simple rules:
-
- A: Tasks which are important and urgent at this time. These tasks are completed first.
- B: Tasks which are important but not urgent at this time. These tasks are completed second.
- C: Tasks which are not important and not urgent at this time. These tasks are completed as time allows.
1. True
2. True
3. True
FEEDBACK:
1. According to the Centers for Disease Control, handwashing is the single best way to prevent the spread of infection.
2. Gloves should always be worn whenever you will come into contact with blood or body fluids.
3. Always use clean dish towels, rags, dishes, and cooking equipment when preparing food. This prevents contamination of food by microorganisms.
1. False
2. False
FEEDBACK:
1. Never mix bleach with ammonia or any other cleaner. Fumes can be toxic and fatal.
2. The type of cleaner used will depend on the surface being cleaned. Not all cleaners are safe for all surfaces.
1. False
2. False
3. True
FEEDBACK:
1. Bleach should never be mixed with ANY other type of cleaning solution, such as ammonia. The fumes can be toxic and deadly.
2. Always remove an electrical appliance by pulling at the base of the plug, never on the cord. This could potentially damage the cord and lead to electrical injuries.
3. Always unplug and electrical appliance prior to cleaning it to prevent electrocution. Once the appliance is unplugged, it can be cleaned using the appropriate type of cleaning agent and method.
1. True
2. C
FEEDBACK:
1. When using an oven cleaner gloves should always be worn. Oven cleaner should never be used when children or pets are around as the fumes and the cleaner may be toxic and could be fatal if ingested.
2. Counter and stove tops should be cleaned any time they are dirty and at least once per day. It is easier to remove spills as soon as they happen than to clean them once they have dried. This will help to save time.
1. False
2. True
3. C
FEEDBACK:
1. Never use the same cleaning cloth on the toilet as is used on other surfaces. Doing so could result in spreading microorganisms from urine and feces onto other surfaces.
2. Always pick up bath mats, rugs, and towels after use to prevent falls.
3. The priority task is always safety. If the HHA/PCA comes upon a safety hazard they should immediately fix it, or inform their supervisor if they are unable to fix the problem on their own.
1. True
FEEDBACK:
1. The HHA/PCA should always be observant of any fall hazard that exists in the home. They should pick up clutter, ensure rugs are secure to the floor, and that rooms are well lit.
True
FEEDBACK:
The most important thing to remember about washing floors is to ensure no one enters a room with a wet floor. Wet floors are fall hazards and the HHA/PCA should take appropriate precautions to ensure patients are safe from all harm.
1. False
2. False
3. True
FEEDBACK:
1. Bleach is not safe to use on all types of fabric. Generally bleach is only used on white linens.
2. You should not use more detergent than the instructions on the washing machine or laundry detergent label states. This could damage the washing machine.
3. Clothing should be separated prior to washing by color and type of fabric. This will help prevent clothing from becoming damaged.
1. True
2. True
3. C
4. True
5. C
6. All are proper body mechanics
7. A
8. False
9. True
10. False
11. True
12. C
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2014, July 2). Cleaning and sanitizing with bleach after an emergency. Retrieved from http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/bleach.asp
Center for Disease Control. (2015, September 4). When & how to wash your hands. Retrieved from www.cdc.gov/handwashing/when–how–handwashing.html
Leahy, W., Fuzy, J., & Grafe, J. (2013). Providing home care: A textbook for home health aides (4th ed.). Albuquerque, NM: Hartman.
Planet of Success. (2011). Effective time management tips. Retrieved from http://www.planetofsuccess.com/effective-time-management/