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Questions and Answers
How do PSWs help improve the quality of life for clients?
In addition to assisting with daily activities, what other responsibility do PSWs have regarding the elderly?
What is a common task for personal support workers (PSWs) in Canada?
Why is the availability of PSWs projected to decrease by 2026?
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What impact does social isolation have on patients?
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What is a key ethical consideration for Personal Support Workers (PSWs) when assisting individuals with personal care tasks?
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Why is it important for PSWs to understand ethical considerations in their work?
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In addition to addressing mental health issues, what is another ethical consideration for PSWs working closely with individuals in need of assistance?
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Why is it important for PSWs to be familiar with common medical terminologies?
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Why should PSWs have a good understanding of basic medical procedures and emergencies?
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How does having sensitivity towards clients' emotions benefit the work of PSWs?
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Study Notes
Assisting with Daily Activities
As unregulated workers without a defined scope of practice, personal support workers (PSWs) in Canada have a wide range of duties and responsibilities that can vary from employer to employer and client to client. Their work includes assisting individuals with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, grooming, preparing meals, administering medication, and helping with mobility issues. This care is provided both in the clients' homes or in supported independent living environments.
Patient Care
The role of a PSW extends to providing care for people who are ill, convalescent, frail elderly, or disabled. They often provide personal interaction to clients who may be socially isolated, thus improving their quality of life. PSWs play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of these individuals by managing risks associated with daily activities. However, given the high demand for home and community-based services and shortages in the field, the availability of PSWs has been decreasing.
Working with Elderly
As part of the growing demographic of older adults, PSWs often work extensively with the elderly population. In 2015, there were an estimated 34,000 PSWs in Ontario working in home and community care. By 2026, it is projected that their availability will continue to decline due to a range of factors including low pay, lack of job security, and inadequate education standards.
Ethical Considerations
Working in close proximity with individuals who need assistance with personal care tasks raises ethical considerations for PSWs. This includes maintaining privacy during activities like bathing and dressing, ensuring dignity and respect, and addressing any issues related to mental health or dementia. The profession requires sensitivity towards clients' emotions, physical limitations, and cultural differences.
Medical Terminology
While not required to have medical degrees, PSWs should be familiar with common medical terminologies relevant to their role. They must understand basic medical procedures, medication administration, and emergencies such as seizures and choking. Having a working knowledge of these terms allows them to communicate more effectively with healthcare professionals and provide better care to their clients.
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Description
Learn about the duties and responsibilities of personal support workers (PSWs) in Canada, including assisting with daily activities, providing patient care, working with the elderly, and ethical considerations in the profession. Explore the importance of medical terminology knowledge for PSWs.
