Domestic Affairs - Task 05.pptx

Accompany the client for medical care Task 05 How to Prepare for Your Elderly client’s Doctor Appointment Doctor Visit Checklist ▶ Before the Visit Write down all questions or any concerns you might have so you don’t forget them. This will help you state them clearl...

Accompany the client for medical care Task 05 How to Prepare for Your Elderly client’s Doctor Appointment Doctor Visit Checklist ▶ Before the Visit Write down all questions or any concerns you might have so you don’t forget them. This will help you state them clearly. Identify current symptoms. Update the patient file and medication list. Be sure to include all medications, over the counter drugs and supplements. Call to confirm appointment During the Visit Bring the updated medication list Clearly report all of your loved one’s symptoms; don’t try to diagnose the problem. Ask your questions and record the answers Record doctor's instructions Discuss recommendations Verify follow-up After the Visit Review your notes Check prescriptions Discuss the visit Update your calendar Call for test results How to Prepare for Your Elderly client’s Doctor Appointment ▶ 1. Know What To Bring ▶ 2. Get Copies Of Recent Test Results ▶ 3. Allow Extra Time To Get Ready ▶ 4. Sit Down & Make A List Of Questions/Concerns Together ▶ 5. Arrange For Transportation ▶ 6. Ask To Come Into The Office To Take Notes  1. Know What To Bring ▶ Give your client’s doctor’s office/surgery a call a few days before the appointment to find out what to bring. Typically, a senior needs to bring the following to a doctor’s appointment: ▶ Insurance information A list of medications being currently taken, including over-the- counter drugs and herbal supplements Hearing aids, blood sugar records, and other condition- specific items  Medical History Medications you’re currently taking (both the brand and generic names), including the dosing and dosing schedule: Allergies to medicines, foods, and contrast dye (sometimes used in medical testing): Major medical issues you’ve had over the last several years, including the estimated diagnosis date: Major surgeries you’ve had over the last several years, including the estimated surgery date: Any abnormal lab findings that you’ve had (starting with the most recent results): 2. Get Copies Of Recent Test Results ▶ Example:Recent eye or dental exam or a specialized test such as an X-ray or MRI scan. ▶ Such information can be especially beneficial if your client is seeing a doctor for the first time.  3. Allow Extra Time To Get Ready ▶ The last thing you want to do is cause anxiety for yourself and your loved one just prior to a doctor’s appointment. ▶ One way to minimize stress is to allow some extra time to get your client ready, especially if he or she normally needs assistance with dressing, grooming, or mobility. ▶ On a related note, arrive at the appointment about 15–20 minutes early to give your client some time to relax and get comfortable.  4. Sit Down & Make A List Of Questions/Concerns Together ▶ Even if your client is going to a familiar doctor, he or she may forget to bring up important questions or concerns. ▶ For this reason, set aside some time before the appointment to make a list of questions and specific concerns your client would like to discuss with the doctor. ▶ Home caregivers can help families maintain detailed records of their loved ones’ daily routines and note any issues their doctors should know about.  5. Arrange For Transportation ▶ Consider arranging for transportation if you’re unable to take your client to the appointment. ▶ One solution is to ask another family member to provide transportation. ▶ Another option is to see if your area has a ride service that specializes in safely picking up and dropping off seniors. Ways to Transport a Senior to the Doctor or Other Appointments  6. Ask To Come Into The Office To Take Notes ▶ Most doctors’ offices will allow a senior’s family caregiver to be present during the visit if it’s clearly in the senior’s best interests to do so. ▶ If this is permitted, take notes so your client can focus on interacting with the doctor. ▶ Your notes can also come in handy later if there’s a need to clarify: ▶ Follow-up instructions Test orders Medication adjustments Other care recommendations  Medical Appointments ▶ How do you schedule an appointment with your doctor? Call or visit the clinic or doctor’s office You will need to tell them your information: Name Address Phone Number Date of Birth Medi-Cal Number Health Plan/Insurance Name of your doctor Why you need to visit the doctor  Important Information about Medical Appointments Use a calendar to record all medical appointments for you and your family Arrive 30 minutes early Bring photo ID, Insurance Card and any Referrals Always ask for an interpreter if you need one. You must call to cancel your appointment 24 hours before scheduled appointment time A family member or friend may join you during your appointment  What Happens During a Medical Appointment? Your Client’s height, weight, temperature and blood pressure is checked A Doctor or Nurse will ask you/client questions about health and the health of their family /History Client may need to give a blood sample or urine sample If you /client have questions or worries about your health ask your doctor Summary  Themedical care schedule of the client should be studied carefully and patiently.  Thedates of appointments should be informed to the client and the relevant parties in advance.  Thenecessary documents and money should be arranged in advance following the organizational procedure.  The transport should be arranged following the organizational procedure.  The client should be prepared for the medical consultation according to the medical condition of the client.  The assistance for the ambulation should be arranged in advance if required.  The client should be taken to the consultantsafely accordingto the appointment made or the urgency need.  The necessary information should be provided to the consultant accurately. ▶ The necessary instructions should be obtained from the consultant clearly.