Week 2 of placements in aged care was better as I had more understanding of how things were done at my particular rest home.

In week 1, we observed each resident and their interaction with the HCAs so by week 2, we knew the capabilities of each resident. This enabled us to help them in tasks that we knew were difficult for them, without being prompted.

So far we have done a lot of bed making, showering, bathing and feeding. Each moment spent with residents is enlightening. We learn more about them and their families, as well as how they feel about being in a rest home and being cared for.

My goal for next week is to be able to do vitals on a resident. This could be challenging as a lot of the residents love to have a chat and I may have a hard time listening to the BP as well as concentrating on counting the pulse and RR.