There are many instances in which a caregiver is asked to accompany a senior citizen to a doctors visit. This is one of the regular errands which many caregivers are asked to take part in with regards to their senior home care duties. Most of our clients in the Houston, Pearland, Cypress and surrounding areas have their doctors close by. But the distance to the primary physician isn’t as important as your loved one’s care, so our team will get them there.
The home care provider is an essential part of this visiting process. Communication between the doctor and the patient, as well as possibly liaising with family members is an important role as is providing support and companionship during the visit. There are some instances when the caregiver will assist the patient through the process of the physician’s appointment and can take notes about the aspects mentioned through the visit.
In the case that the senior is visiting the doctor independently, the care provider can ask for notes which can be delivered to the family and support group. This way, the notes can be an accurate depiction of the visit in the chart or the case of the patient.
There are times when the caregiver will be solely responsible for getting the patient to the office of the health care practitioner. It is important that any care provider be sure to arrive at least fifteen minutes early and plan for any scheduling issues that may occur between the office of the physician and the patient.
The care provider should take measures to ensure the comfort of the client while waiting. Bring a book, magazine or knitting to do through the visit to occupy the patient and reduce the anxiety which is associated with waiting. Provide companionship for patients that are anxious about their appointment or about test results that may be displayed and listen to any concerns that the patient may have.
A caregiver that is willing to act as part of this team will see more success when it comes to their career and more importantly the well being of the senior under their care. Here is a summary of the techniques caregivers can use to ensure the most success with the client:
- Be attentive and listen to the concerns of the client, ask the client if he or she would like these concerns relayed to the doctor.
- Take notes if you are included in the doctor’s visit and have these notes or progress reports ready to give to family members and other members of the support team.
- Draw the client’s attention away from any anxious thoughts before an appointment through distraction, conversation and other activities.