Safe Lifting & Transfer Techniques
Proper lifting technique is crucial to prevent injury to both you and the person you're caring for. Follow these guidelines:
Plan Before You Lift
Clear the path of obstacles, decide where you're moving the person, and communicate the plan clearly. Make sure you have proper footing and stable ground.
Use Proper Body Mechanics
- Keep your back straight and bend at the knees, not at the waist
- Keep the person close to your body
- Use your leg muscles, not your back
- Never twist while lifting — pivot with your feet instead
- Get help if the person is too heavy
Use Assistive Devices When Available
Transfer belts, slide boards, and mechanical lifts can make transfers safer and easier. Ask your care coordinator about available equipment.
Effective Communication Strategies
Good communication builds trust and makes care more effective. Here's how to communicate better:
✓ DO
- • Make eye contact
- • Speak clearly and calmly
- • Listen actively
- • Respect dignity and privacy
- • Ask before helping
- • Be patient
✗ DON'T
- • Talk down or use "baby talk"
- • Rush conversations
- • Interrupt
- • Ignore their preferences
- • Speak about them in third person
- • Raise your voice unnecessarily
Tip: If the person has hearing difficulties, face them when speaking, reduce background noise, and consider using written notes or gestures to supplement verbal communication.
Assisting with Personal Hygiene
Personal care tasks require sensitivity, respect, and proper technique to maintain dignity and safety.
Bathing & Showering
- Test water temperature before bathing (warm, not hot)
- Have all supplies ready before starting
- Use non-slip mats and grab bars
- Respect privacy — cover areas not being washed
- Never leave someone alone in the bath if they're unsteady
Dressing Assistance
- Let them choose their own clothes when possible
- Dress the weaker side first, undress it last
- Use adaptive clothing with velcro or larger buttons if needed
- Allow as much independence as safely possible
Medication Reminders & Management
Important: As a caregiver, you can remind and assist with medications, but you cannot administer medications unless specifically trained and authorized. Always follow your care plan guidelines.
Keep a Medication List
Maintain an up-to-date list including medication names, dosages, times, and any special instructions. Keep contact information for doctors and pharmacies handy.
Use a Pill Organizer
Weekly pill organizers make it easy to see if medications have been taken and help prevent missed or double doses.
Set Reminders
Use phone alarms, apps, or written schedules to remember medication times. Consistency is important.
Watch for Side Effects
Be aware of potential side effects and report any unusual symptoms to healthcare providers immediately.
Infection Control & Hygiene
Proper hygiene and infection control protect both you and the person receiving care.
Hand Washing
Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after providing care, especially after using the bathroom or handling soiled items.
Use PPE When Needed
Wear gloves when handling bodily fluids or soiled items. Use masks if recommended by healthcare providers.
Clean Surfaces
Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs, railings, and bathroom fixtures.
Proper Disposal
Dispose of soiled items properly in sealed bags. Follow guidelines for medical waste if applicable.