Personal Care Warning Signs

We’ve observed students consistently making these critical mistakes when answering personal care questions. Being aware of these common pitfalls will help you avoid them during your exam:

❌ Privacy and Dignity Errors:

• Not providing proper privacy during care
• Failing to explain procedures before starting
• Exposing residents unnecessarily
• Ignoring resident preferences
• Not knocking before entering
• Discussing care in public areas

❌ Safety Oversight Mistakes:

• Forgetting to check water temperature
• Not using proper body mechanics
• Leaving residents unattended
• Missing fall risk precautions
• Improper bed position
• Not securing equipment

❌ Personal Care Sequence Errors:

• Working from dirty to clean areas
• Not following proper cleaning direction
• Mixing clean and dirty supplies
• Incorrect order of morning care
• Rushing through procedures
• Skipping important steps

❌ Observation Mistakes:

• Missing skin changes
• Not noting behavioral changes
• Overlooking new symptoms
• Failing to report changes promptly
• Not documenting observations
• Missing pressure point checks

❌ Communication Errors:

• Not explaining procedures
• Ignoring resident questions
• Missing non-verbal cues
• Poor reporting to supervisor
• Incomplete shift handoffs
• Failing to document refusals

❌ Equipment Usage Mistakes:

• Using wrong size equipment
• Improper cleaning between uses
• Not checking equipment safety
• Incorrect application technique
• Poor maintenance practices
• Missing safety checks

❌ Documentation Oversights:

• Incomplete care records
• Not noting resident response
• Missing important changes
• Late documentation
• Failing to record refusals
• Poor description of care provided

❌ Critical Thinking Errors:

• Not reading questions carefully
• Missing key details in scenarios
• Choosing familiar but wrong answers
• Not considering resident condition
• Rushing through “easy” questions
• Overlooking best practice options

Remember:

• The exam tests your ability to apply personal care principles, not just memorize steps
• Questions often present complex scenarios requiring careful consideration
• Pay attention to specific details in each question
• Consider safety and dignity in every situation
• Documentation and reporting are crucial elements

Ready to learn successful strategies for mastering personal care? Click ‘Next Topic’ to continue!