Personal Characteristics of a Health Care Provider Objectives:   Identify character traits of a health care provider   Analyze professionalism Essential Questions   What characteristics are employers looking for in job applicants?   Which of these characteristics do I have?   Why must a health care provider be professional at all times?

Personal Characteristics  Empathy: ability to identify with & understand another person’s feelings, situation, motives  Honesty: others must be able to trust you at all times  Dependability: accept the responsibility your position requires  Willingness to learn and adapt

Personal Characteristics  Patience: tolerant and understanding  Acceptance of criticism  Enthusiasm: positive attitude  Self-motivation: ability to begin or follow through with a task

Personal Characteristics  Tact: ability to say or do the kindest or most fitting thing in a difficult situation  Competence: qualified and capable  Responsibility: willing to be held accountable for your actions

Personal Appearance  Good Health –Diet: well-balanced diet provides body with optimum health –Rest: adequate rest provides energy & ability to deal with stress

Personal Appearance –Exercise: improves physical & mental capabilities –Good posture: prevents fatigue with less stress on muscles

Personal Appearance –Avoid tobacco, alcohol & drugs: impairs mental & physical functions

Uniform  Neat, well fitting, clean, wrinkle free  Follow standards of place of employment

Clothing  Clean, neat, in good repair  Allow for freedom of body movement  Appropriate for position

Name Badge  Required at all facilities

Shoes  Should fit well & provide good support to prevent fatigue  Low heels best to prevent accidents & fatigue

Personal Hygiene  Control body odor: –daily bath or shower –use deodorant  Good oral hygiene  Clean undergarments  Avoid strong odors

Nails  Kept short & clean  Long, pointed nails can cause injury to patients  Germs transmitted when dirt collects under nails

Hair  Clean & neat  Avoid extreme styles & hair ornaments  Pin back off collar –Keeps hair from touching patient –Prevent hair from falling on tray or equipment –Avoid blocking vision during procedure

Jewelry  Can cause injury & transmit pathogens  Excessive amount interferes with patient care & detracts from professional appearance

Makeup  Avoid excessive use  Should create natural appearance & add to attractiveness