Florida Bill of Rights. Protect your Dignity and Privacy!
January 13th, 2010
Florida Bill of Rights
“A patient has the right to be treated with courtesy and respect, with appreciation of his or her individual dignity, and with protection of his or her need for privacy.”
The above is a quote from the Florida Bill of Rights. You can read it in its entirety by following this link:
http://www.doh.state.fl.us/mqa/Profiling/billofrights.htm
Sometimes, a Certified Nursing Assistant has to do some very personal and not so pleasant tasks as a caregiver. It is of the utmost importance to always protect the privacy of all of the patients he or she cares for, while helping them to maintain their dignity. It takes a special kind of person to do this successfully. I can’t tell you how many times I have walked by a patient’s room in a facility and seen bare skin. I would be humiliated if that was myself. I always try and remember to treat the patient the way I would want to be treated or a family member. That is with respect, courtesy, respect for my privacy and kindness.
Never assume a patient is comfortable being bathed, using the toilet, or receiving any type of assistance in front of their family members. This can be a very humiliating experience. Maybe the patient has never been ill or needed any type of help before. The patient should feel comfortable expressing pain or crying, if needed, without feeling embarrassed. It is best to ask the visitors to leave while you do your task. This will also assure the patient that you are looking out for their best interest.
Know your rights!
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