Respect for the patient’s property is demonstrated through various actions taken by staff as outlined below:
As far as your own personal belongings are concerned, request that patients identify an area in which you may store items such as a coat, boots, bag, etc. while present in the home to provide service. You should not leave items in the patient’s home while you are not providing service. Any item brought into the home should leave with you after your shift.
- Staff handle patients’ possessions such as clothing, outer garments, shoes, equipment, etc. appropriately;
- Staff request permission to use the telephone for agency contact and for personal calls in emergency situations only;
- Staff take appropriate precautions not to damage the patient’s property, furniture, carpet, floor, equipment etc.; and
- Staff do not waste or abuse the patient’s resources (e.g., supplies, food, utilities, etc.) during the provision of service.
As far as your own personal belongings are concerned, request that patients identify an area in which you may store items such as a coat, boots, bag, etc. while present in the home to provide service. You should not leave items in the patient’s home while you are not providing service. Any item brought into the home should leave with you after your shift.