top of page
Writer's pictureblakerhorsley

If you were a PSW describe a situation where you would have to ADVOCATE on behalf of a client.

As a Personal Support Worker (PSW), there are numerous situations where I may need to advocate on behalf of a client. Advocacy is an essential part of my role in ensuring the well-being and rights of my clients are protected. Here's an example scenario where advocacy may be necessary: Let's say I'm assigned to provide care for an elderly client named Mr. Johnson, who resides in a long-term care facility. Over time, I observe that Mr. Johnson is frequently left alone in his room for extended periods, resulting in his social isolation and a decline in his mental and emotional well-being. Additionally, I notice that the staff members often rush through their duties, not allowing enough time for individual attention and meaningful interaction with the residents. In this situation, I would take on the role of an advocate for Mr. Johnson by addressing his concerns and working towards a solution. Here's how I would approach it:

  1. Gather information: I would document my observations and gather relevant details about Mr. Johnson's experiences, including dates, times, and specific instances where he was left alone for prolonged periods.

  2. Communicate with Mr. Johnson: I would have a conversation with Mr. Johnson, allowing him to express his feelings and concerns about the lack of social interaction. This would help me understand his needs better and provide a foundation for advocating on his behalf.

  3. Discuss the issue with the care team: I would bring up my concerns with the care team, including the facility's management, nurses, and other staff members. I would present the evidence I've gathered and emphasize the impact on Mr. Johnson's well-being. It is crucial to approach this discussion in a respectful and collaborative manner, seeking their support to address the issue.

  4. Develop an action plan: In collaboration with the care team, I would propose potential solutions to improve Mr. Johnson's situation. This could include scheduling regular socialization activities, encouraging staff members to spend quality time with residents, or implementing a buddy system where residents can engage with each other.

  5. Advocate for change: If the care team is unresponsive or fails to take appropriate action, I would escalate the concern to higher management within the facility. This may involve submitting a formal complaint or engaging with the resident's family members to join in the advocacy efforts.

  6. Document and follow up: Throughout the process, I would maintain detailed records of the steps taken, conversations held, and any outcomes achieved. Regularly following up with the care team and monitoring the situation would be essential to ensure the proposed changes are implemented and Mr. Johnson's well-being improves.

By advocating for Mr. Johnson's needs and concerns, I aim to ensure that he receives the attention, care, and social interaction he deserves, ultimately enhancing his quality of life in the long-term care facility.




0 comments

Comments


bottom of page