Topic > The need to preserve dignity and autonomy among residents for the healthcare provider

IndexIntroductionDefinition of dignityInteraction and communicationPrivacy and confidentialityPrivacy of personal spacePrivacy of the bodyPrivacy of informationEssential careConclusionIntroductionDignity is always a major concern in healthcare services of Hong Kong. In Hong Kong, residential aged care services can be divided into retirement homes, aged care and nursing homes, and nursing homes. The total number of places within these residential care services is 33134 and approximately 20% of residents are in care homes. It is important and necessary for the healthcare provider to preserve the dignity and autonomy of residents. Dignity is an ethical imperative in the context of healthcare. However, the fact is that, in most cases, these goals cannot be achieved. Dignity can be compromised during healthcare. Most older adults are treated in a disrespectful and unacceptable manner by their healthcare provider. As a result, older users of the service are suffering humiliation. Every human being has the right to be respectful in the world. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Definition of Dignity Dignity is the state or quality of being worthy of honor or respect. Dignity can be influenced by people's health conditions and the attitudes of others. It is proven that poor body image or poor body function experienced by health conditions would decrease their sense of control and confidence, as well as dignity. Furthermore, dignity can also be influenced by behavior in the care environment. Treating patients as valued individuals is the key variable that promotes dignity. The attitude of staff that affects the dignity of patients can be divided into three aspects: “Interactions and Communication”; "Providing privacy"; and “Essential Care”. Interaction and communication All human beings want to communicate and need a response and confirmation to feel like individuals, human beings. In general, healthcare workers were often busy in nursing homes in Hong Kong. Staff are more interested in completing tasks as quickly as possible and ignoring the patient's emotional and relational needs. Even if they are busy, healthcare workers should also interact with the elderly. If it's not the time to sit down and talk, at least talk during care starting with, "How's your day?" Expressing friendliness, such as “Do you want to say more about this…” in communication could help people feel at ease. The healthcare provider does not have to make any assumptions about the patients' needs. Always ask and confirm their preferences and give service users choices while feeling in control. For example today it's a bit cold, do you want to put on a jacket? Additionally, simply listening and responding to patients could make them feel valued. Please remember that it is important to use respectful language, treat with courtesy and speak slowly with elders when communicating. Patients will feel respected and appreciated and their dignity will be increased. Privacy and confidentiality Valid consent must be obtained from patients before any physical examination, treatment or personal care. Consent is a free, voluntary permission or agreement for something to happen. People have the right to decide whether to receive care and treatment for their bodies. Areas of privacy for people accessing healthcare are divided.