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Communication and Patient Rights (Indirect Care)

Indirect care covers communication skills, maintaining patient dignity, and respecting resident rights throughout every interaction.

12 steps·6 evaluator checkpoints·5 common mistakes

1Step-by-Step Procedure

1
Knock on the door and wait briefly before entering the resident's room.
2
Greet the resident by name with a pleasant, calm tone.
3
Introduce yourself: state your name and your role (e.g., "nursing assistant").
4
Explain the procedure you are about to perform in simple, clear language.
5
Ask the resident for permission before beginning any procedure.
6
Provide privacy by closing the door, pulling the curtain, or draping as appropriate.
7
Throughout the procedure, speak directly to the resident, maintaining eye contact at their level when possible.
8
Listen actively — allow the resident to respond and express concerns.
9
Respect any refusal of care and report it promptly to the nurse.
10
Before leaving, ensure the resident is comfortable, call light is within reach, and bed is in the lowest position.
11
Thank the resident and tell them you will check back.
12
Report any observations or changes in condition to the nurse immediately after the skill.

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Failing to explain the procedure before starting — always ask permission first.
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Leaving without placing the call light within reach.
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Forgetting to lower the bed to the lowest position at the end.
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Talking over or around the resident rather than directly to them.
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Not ensuring privacy before beginning a procedure.

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Think of indirect care as the "wrap" around every skill — it applies to all 25 procedures.
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Always state the resident's name, your name, and the procedure before touching anything.
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Memorize the ending: lower bed → call light within reach → thank resident → wash hands.
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A warm, respectful tone matters — evaluators observe your demeanor, not just your technique.

Also study the written exam topics

Physical Care Skills makes up 45% of the written exam — the same procedures you just reviewed will appear as multiple-choice questions.

Free practice questions with instant feedback and explanations.