CHAPTER

47
Starting
Your
Career

OBJECTIVES
After reading this chapter, the learner should be able to do the following:

• List the tools needed to prepare for your job search.

• Differentiate between a chronological resumé and a functional resumé.
• List three sources of advertised positions.
• Identify methods for finding out about unadvertised positions.
• List the details that are important in a letter of application.
• Summarize why one should take time completing application forms.
• List what interviewers are trying to determine during an interview.
• Summarize why the interview is a key element in the job search.
• Summarize why it is important to practise and plan before an interview.
• Name the ways to make a good impression at an interview.
• Summarize why it is important to write a thank-you note following an interview.
• Apply the techniques described in this chapter to the job application experience.

http://evolve.elsevier.com/Canada/Sorrentino/SupportWorker 1075
 KEY TERMS
chronological resumé A resumé that highlights
employment history, starting with the most
current employment and working in reverse
chronological order (backward) through earlier
jobs. p. 1078
cover letter See letter of application. p. 1083
curriculum vitae (CV) A resumé that is lengthened
to include a description of achievements, such as
teaching experience, research, awards,
publications, and degrees. p. 1077
functional resumé A resumé that highlights
skills or functions and briefly lists positions
held. p. 1080
letter of application A letter that is included with a
resumé that summarizes the job applied for and
reasons for applying for it; it can be solicited or
unsolicited. Also called a cover letter. p. 1083
Finding a job takes discipline, focus, and hard
work. For many people, the process is stressful
because the end result is uncertain. However, with
good preparation and a sound plan, the job search
can be exciting and rewarding, as it gives you the
opportunity to learn about yourself and to meet
new people.
Today, support workers have a number of options
to choose from when deciding the type of environ-
ment they would like to work in and who they wish
to work for. While most beginning support workers
seek employment at an agency or facility, others may
choose to be self-employed to have greater flexibility
in working around their personal responsibilities.
Some support workers may find personal satisfaction
being self-employed and employed at an agency,
splitting time between both.
GETTING ORGANIZED
Your job search will be more successful if you get
organized before you start. Choose a place in your
home where you will work, and then make sure that
you have the following tools in your workspace:
1076
portfolio A binder containing the applicant’s
certificates, letters of recommendation, awards,
proof of volunteering, or other pertinent
information. p. 1082
reference A person who can speak to a potential
employer about the applicant’s skills, abilities, and
personal qualities. p. 1083
resumé A concise one- to two-page summary of
experience, education, work-related skills, and
personal qualities. p. 1077
solicited letter of application A letter of
application that responds to an advertised
position. p. 1083
unsolicited letter of application A letter of
application that inquires about potential
openings. p. 1083
• A computer and a printer. If you do not own a
computer, you should have access to one. Most
public libraries have computers and printers avail-
able to the public. Most employers today post job
openings on the Internet and request that resumés
be sent by email, through a special section of the
company’s website, or through a third-party
employment website.
• A telephone or cellphone with voice mail. Pro-
spective employers should be able to reach you by
telephone. If you have a cellphone, remember to
set up your voice mail. The message on your voice
mail should sound professional.
• Office supplies. Make sure that you have a supply
of good-quality paper, a stapler (in case an employer
requests a hard copy of your resumé), and pens.
• Resources. Many excellent books available at the
library as well as Internet websites can provide
needed information to help you with your job
search. Look for books and websites that can show
you how to prepare a resumé and cover letter. Your
college library or local public library should have
extensive resources on the job search (also, see
BOX 47–1).
 CHAPTER 47 Starting Your Career 1077

BOX 47–1 Useful Resources for Your Job Search

Resource
What Color Is Your Parachute?
www.jobhuntersbible.com
http://www.youth.gc.ca/eng/topics/jobs/
lmi.shtml
www.careerbookstore.ca
www.resumeedge.com
http://www.youth.gc.ca/eng/topics/jobs/
resume.shtml
www.job-interview.net
www.workopolis.com
Type keywords into your search engine
(e.g., Google), such as “Support worker
jobs in [your city or town]”
Many larger agencies have their own
employer websites
Description
Well-known guide on job hunting
Website for What Color Is Your Parachute?
A Canadian government website with links to detailed labour
market information on jobs and careers, as well as
provincial, territorial, and local labour market information
Website with a comprehensive catalogue of books on all
aspects of the job search
Free sample resumés and cover letters
A Government of Canada site with tips on resumé writing
Sample interview questions
Comprehensive website on all aspects of the job search that
also posts health care positions and allows you to post
your resumé for employers to view
Using specific keywords will result in more focused search
results
These sites may post any job openings and provide links for
applying to them

individualized for each position applied for, and a

SETTING PRIORITIES AND GOALS
Before creating your resumé, think about your pri-
orities and goals. Determine the following:
• What type of support work do you want to pursue?
• Would you prefer to work in a facility or a com-
munity setting?
• Do you want to be self-employed?
• Do you want full-time or part-time work?
As discussed in Chapter 3, there are different kinds
of support work settings. If you were unsure during
your program about where you would like to work,
your clinical placements may have helped you make
the decision. If you are still undecided, you may want
to apply for work in a variety of settings.
PREPARING YOUR RESUMÉ AND
PROFESSIONAL PORTFOLIO
Regardless of where you are applying to work, it is a
good idea to prepare both resumés, which would be
professional portfolio, which you could bring to
show interviewers or potential clients.
Resumé
A resumé is a concise, one- to two-page summary of
your experience, education, work-related skills, and
personal qualities and is the first step toward a job
interview. A resumé introduces you to possible
employers, so it must look and sound professional.
Employers use resumés to decide which job appli-
cants to interview, and even small errors such as
spelling mistakes may negatively influence the
employer’s decision. Some employers may ask for a
curriculum vitae, or CV, which is a resumé that is
lengthened to include a description of achievements,
such as teaching experience, research, awards, publi-
cations, and degrees.
It is best to prepare your resumé well before you
begin your job search. This gives you time to do
it properly without rushing. As you prepare your
resumé, keep the needs of prospective employers
1078 CHAPTER 47 Starting Your Career
in mind. Consider what most employers look for
in support workers (see Chapter 1). Remember,
however, that each job is unique, so make adjust-
ments to your resumé to fit the needs of each
employer and setting. Remember to update your
resumé frequently to reflect any new courses
that you have taken or work experience that you
have had since the last time you updated it.
If you also store your resumé on a flash drive
(memory stick), you have the advantage of port-
ability when you need to print off copies and are
away from home.
Keep a copy of the resumé on your hard drive as
well as on a flash drive (memory stick) or external
drive. Many employers require that you apply over
the Internet, and you may be required to “copy and
paste” sections of a prepared resumé onto their appli-
cation sites. Since more employers expect resumés to
be submitted electronically instead of in a printed
form, you should always keep an updated resumé on
your computer.
Elements of a Resumé
All resumés include information on the following:
• Experience. Employers want to know what you
have done that qualifies you for the position.
Experience does not have to be paid work. It can
come from volunteer work, field placements,
special projects, and recreational activities. Stress
your skills and accomplishments rather than your
duties and responsibilities.
• Education. Employers want to know if you have
the educational qualifications required for the pos-
ition. Your resumé should include the exact name
of your certificate, the name of your educational
institution, and the year you graduated. Also
include additional training and any awards or
honours you received.
The following elements are optional:
• Objective. An objective on a resumé states your
immediate career goal and briefly lists relevant
skills, abilities, and personal qualities. It appears at
the top of the first page of your resumé, right after
your name and address.
• Profile. A career profile summarizes your qualifi-
cations, highlighting particular skills and experi-
ence in one brief paragraph. It usually appears on
the first page of your resumé, right after your name
and address. Most people include either an object-
ive or a profile but rarely both.
• Interests. Most career consultants advise against
including a separate section on interests because
it takes up valuable space. Instead, they suggest
incorporating accomplishments in sports or
hobbies into other sections of the resumé and
doing so only if it is relevant to the job. For
example, you may want to mention your skills
in curling to show you are an experienced team
player.
Getting Started on Your Resumé
Think of the resumé as an advertisement for those of
your experiences, skills, and qualities that an employer
might be seeking. Start by making a list of the skills
and qualities an employer would want in a support
worker; then make a list of your own skills and qual-
ities and the experiences that helped you to develop
those qualities.
If you are not able to identify your skills and
qualities, start by thinking about your experiences.
Ask yourself what you learned from each experi-
ence and how your experiences have influenced
you.
Organizing Your Resumé
There are two basic resumé styles: (1) the chrono-
logical resumé and (2) the functional resumé.
Chronological Resumé
A chronological resumé highlights employment
history, starting with your most current employment
and working in reverse chronological order (back-
ward) through earlier jobs (FIGURE 47–1). Because of
its emphasis on work history, this style of resumé is
best for those with the following:
• A steady history of employment in their chosen
field
• At least 2 years’ employment with one employer
• Few gaps between jobs
 CHAPTER 47 Starting Your Career 1079

SEAN TOOTOOSIS
16 Uptown Street, Apt. 4, Edmonton, AB T9Q 2PI, (403) 765-4321, stootoosis@elsewhere.net

PROFILE

• Experienced support worker who has cared for clients with diverse needs
• Skilled at motivating clients to regain their independence
• Dedicated to creating a caring, compassionate environment
• Discreet, hard-working, and loyal

EXPERIENCE

Support Worker, Hummingbird Agency, Edmonton, AB, August 2011–Present

• Provide personal care and support to diverse client population
• Skilled at caring for clients with quadriplegia and severe physical disabilities
• Selected to assist in training new staff and writing procedures for manual
• Praised for my calm, composed, empathetic manner with clients
• Demonstrated ability to work independently under minimal supervision

Support Worker, Primrose Group Home, Edmonton, AB, June 2008–July 2011
• Assisted developmentally disabled adolescents with activities of daily living
• Developed good listening and other interpersonal skills
• Demonstrated flexibility in meeting multiple needs and finishing tasks on time
• Commended by supervisor for initiative and problem-solving skills
• Served as leader of four-person team to redesign the home’s living space

Lamantia Brickworks and Patios, Edmonton, AB, March 2003–May 2008

• Demonstrated leadership skills while supervising team of four bricklayers.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

• Certificate in Personal Support Work, Western Canadian College, Edmonton, AB, 2008
• St. John’s Ambulance First Aid and CPR Level C Certification, Edmonton, AB,
yearly 2008–2015

OTHER

• Spoken languages: English and Cree

FIGURE 47–1 Chronological resumé.

1080 CHAPTER 47 Starting Your Career
Functional Resumé
A functional resumé highlights skills or functions
and briefly lists positions held (FIGURE 47–2). Because
it emphasizes skills and abilities, rather than specific
jobs, a functional resumé is best for those with the
following:
• Little work experience in their chosen field
• Long periods during which they were not in the
workforce
• Frequent job changes
A functional resumé should include your employ-
ment history with dates. A resumé that excludes this
information might suggest that you have something
to hide.
Creating Your Resumé
You will probably need to prepare several drafts
of your resumé before you are satisfied. As you
prepare your drafts, ask yourself the following
questions:
• Is the information relevant? You have limited
space to make an impression. Mention only those
experiences that say something about how well
you would perform on the job.
• Have I been completely honest? Emphasize
your strengths, but do not misrepresent yourself.
It is unethical to lie. Do not change your
qualifications, job titles, education, or dates of
employment. Do not exaggerate your limited
accomplishments if you lack experience. Remem-
ber that some employers prefer to hire inexperi-
enced workers because they may be more
motivated, more flexible, and easier to train than
those with experience.
• Have I expressed myself clearly? Be concise, and
avoid using long words. Revise your draft to make
sure it is clear. Avoid giving information in para-
graphs; use bullet points instead. Sentences should
be short and direct. Start them with action words,
and avoid the use of the word “I.” Remember,
your resumé should be only one or two pages in
length.
• Is my resumé consistent? Set up the page, head-
ings, and sentences in a consistent format. Use
bullets, bold type, italic type, or underlining in the
same style throughout the document. Do not spell
the same word two different ways (e.g., honours
and honors). Use the same grammatical form for
each point.
• Have I accounted for all my time? Do not leave
blocks of time that are unaccounted for.
• Is my resumé correct? Read over the final docu-
ment several times slowly and carefully. Do not
trust your word processor’s spell-check feature to
catch all spelling errors (e.g., their, they’re, and
there are not always caught if misused). Some
people have problems proofreading their own
work because they read what they think they
have written rather than what is actually on the
page.
Begin by reading every word out loud. Make sure
that what you have written makes sense as you hear
it. If you find that you cannot judge your own work
impartially and objectively, ask someone to read it
aloud for you. Many employers use your resumé as
a predictor for the type of support worker you will
be. If there are errors, they may assume that you do
not pay attention to your work, and you will not be
called for an interview.
Follow this step by reading your document back-
ward, starting at the end of the resumé and reading
each sentence backward. You are more likely to catch
typos and spelling mistakes when you read this way.
Do not depend on computer spell-checks to find
errors. When you are satisfied with your resumé, ask
at least two reliable people to proofread it.
Formatting and Printing
To make a good impression, your resumé must look
neat and professional:
• Choose a simple, professional-looking font (type-
face) such as Times New Roman or Arial. Do not
choose fancy or script-type fonts.
• Do not use more than one font.
• Keep the use of graphic devices such as bold or
italicized type to a minimum.
• Do not crowd too much material on a page.
 CHAPTER 47 Starting Your Career 1081

KAYLEE SAUVÉ
105 Pine Avenue, Hamilton, ON L4W 5Y3, (905) 725-9589, ksauve@link.com

OBJECTIVE

To provide support to clients in their homes and to deliver compassionate personal care.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Listening skills: composed, respectful, and empathetic

• Speaking skills: won public speaking award in secondary school
• Language skills: speak English and French fluently
• Organizational skills: ability to complete work while meeting multiple demands
• Leadership skills: strong ability to motivate others; captain of winning basketball team
• Meal preparation skills: experienced; sound knowledge of food safety and nutrition
• Mature and responsible: child care worker for two families for six years
• Flexible: able to work in a variety of settings and adapt to different situations
• Self-reliant: confident working under minimal supervision
• Physically strong: unloaded trucks and lifted boxes at local food bank

EDUCATION

• Certificate in Personal Support Work, Ontario Institute for Applied Health Sciences,
Hamilton, ON, 2011
• St. John’s Ambulance First Aid and CPR Level C, Certification, Hamilton, ON, 2016
• Food Safety course, River College, Toronto, ON, 2015

EXPERIENCE

Sunset Nursing Home, Field Placement, Hamilton, ON, February 2015–April 2015
• Prepared and delivered meals for 35 residents

Ricky’s Restaurant, Waitress, Hamilton, ON, Summers, May 2011–August 2015

• Greeted customers, served meals, prepared salads

Children’s Caregiver, Hamilton, ON, Part-time, 2008–2014

• Cared for children ages 4 months through 9 years

Volunteer, Daily Food Bank, Hamilton, ON, January 2011–March 2014

• Unloaded trucks, stocked shelves, helped customers

FIGURE 47–2 Functional resumé.

1082 CHAPTER 47 Starting Your Career
Most computer programs have preset resumé
designs that you can use to format your resumé.
Many books and websites also present a variety
of designs you can use. Some websites offer ser-
vices such as formatting your resumé and posting
it on the Internet. Because resumé formats change
constantly, it may be worth securing the services
of a professional resumé writer. Check the Inter-
net for names in your area. Your school or college
may also provide this service through the career
centre.
If submitting your resumé in person or by mail,
print it on good-quality white or ivory bond
8 1 2 ″ × 11′′ paper. Never use designed or patterned
paper. If your resumé runs to two pages, staple the
pages together. Never fold the corners down together.
Paper clips can be used to hold your pages together,
but many employers prefer staples.
The Professional Portfolio
Many interviewers or clients appreciate or even
expect to see a portfolio when interviewing an
applicant for the first time. A portfolio is a binder
containing the applicant’s certificates, letters of rec-
ommendation, awards, proof of volunteering, or
other pertinent information. Its purpose is to easily
reveal information about the applicant to the
interviewer.
Each item within the portfolio should be placed
in a plastic page protector and inserted into the
binder in an organized manner. It is easiest when the
items are sorted according to categories and labelled
page dividers separate each section. Items should be
in order of when they were obtained, with the most
recent first, the second most recent after that, and so
on. This way, the interviewer does not have to sift
through the contents of the portfolio.
Your completed portfolio should contain the
following:
• Copy of your resumé and cover letter, individual-
ized for each specific employer
• List of references (with complete contact informa-
tion) that you are prepared to leave with the
interviewer
• Certificates that you have achieved
• Letters of recommendation and awards
• Workshops that you attended, along with the
dates that you attended them
• Proof of volunteering
• Immunization record
• Police check (or vulnerable sector screen)
• Letters of reference from previous employers or
clients
• Any other pertinent information
The interviewer or potential client may wish to
make photocopies of some of the pages contained in
your portfolio.
FINDING AND FOLLOWING LEADS
The main sources for advertised positions are online
job sites, local newspapers, and college career
services.
• Employment advertisements. Check national,
local, and community newspapers daily for
advertisements.
• The Internet. Many health care facilities post
job openings on their websites. To search the
Internet, use a search engine and type in search
words such as “Health Care,” “Home Health
Care,” “Home Care,” “Home Health Services,”
“Community Health Care,” “Retirement Homes,”
“Nursing Homes,” “Nursing Services,” “Not-For-
Profit Jobs/Careers,” and so on. General job search
websites such as Monster, Indeed, and Workopolis
(see BOX 47–1, on p. 1077) also post health care
positions.
• College career services. Some colleges offer career
counselling and placement services to students
and members of the community. Employers post
job openings on the bulletin boards at the college
or on the college website.
Some positions are not advertised. To find out
about unadvertised positions, try the following:
• Contact people you know. Friends, acquaintances,
and professional contacts may help you to find
work and advance your career. Make a list of
people you know in the health care field, including
course instructors and employers you worked for
in your program placement. Ask these people if

any positions are available at their workplace. They
may be aware of jobs posted on bulletin boards or
jobs that may become available.
• Check with your district home care program. The
websites of your health district may list agencies
that are used to deliver home care in the commun-
ity as well as list contact information of local long-
term care and retirement home agencies.
• Look in the Yellow Pages (www.yellowpages.ca).
Look under the headings “Home Health Care,”
“Home Care,” “Home Health Services,” “Com-
munity Health Care,” “Retirement Homes,”
“Nurses and Nurses Registries,” “Nursing Homes,”
and “Nursing Services.”
• Check your local library. Libraries often have lists
of health care facilities and agencies.
• Attend job fairs. Job fairs are often held at com-
munity colleges or elsewhere in the community
and may be advertised in the local newspapers, on
local cable channels, or at your college.
• Check with your Canada Employment Centre.
These centres often have information about local
area employers and about specific job openings.
Selecting References
A reference is a person who can speak to a potential
employer about your skills, abilities, and personal
qualities. Determine who you want as references
early in the job search. Do not use family members
or friends as references. Previous employers are
usually the best people to use as references. Other
possibilities are people in positions of authority, such
as teachers and camp directors. Here are some basic
tips about references:
• Ask for the reference. Do not use someone as a
reference without asking the person. Explain the
type of work you are looking for. Do not assume
the person will speak positively about you. Ask
what the person would say your strengths and
weaknesses are. Be reasonably certain the person
will speak positively about you before listing that
person as a reference. If you are applying for more
than one position, be sure to ask if the person
would give you a reference for each position.
• Make sure contact information is correct. Make
sure you have accurate phone numbers or email
CHAPTER 47 Starting Your Career 1083
addresses for your references to give prospective
employers.
• Keep your references informed. Let your refer-
ences know when you are going for a job interview
so that they can be prepared for a phone call from
your prospective employer. A reference who is pre-
pared is more likely to give you a good reference.
• Follow up. Keep your references informed about
your job search. If you got the job, thank them for
their help. If you did not get the job, let them
know.
PREPARING A LETTER
OF APPLICATION
A letter of application, also called a cover letter, is
included with a résumé. There are two kinds of letters
of application:
1. A solicited letter of application responds to an
advertised position (FIGURE 47–3).
2. An unsolicited letter of application inquires
about potential job openings (FIGURE 47–4).
A letter of application should not simply summar-
ize the information in your resumé. It should focus
on what you can offer by summarizing how your
skills and experiences are relevant to the job you are
seeking. A good letter of application is persuasive,
professional, and personalized. Try to find out the
specific person who is responsible for hiring for the
position, and direct your correspondence to that
person. Most administrators do not like to receive
applications or resumés from job seekers when there
is a designated individual and department to deal
with recruitment and hiring.
Determining the Employer’s Needs
If a letter of application is solicited, study the adver-
tisement carefully to determine what exactly the
employer is looking for. Describe your experiences
and skills that match what the employer wants. Con-
sider if you have skills and qualities that are not listed
in the advertisement but that could contribute to the
position advertised. Even if you are new to support
work, your course should have provided you with
information about those qualities.
1084 CHAPTER 47 Starting Your Career

ADVERTISEMENT
Ferndale Lodge has two positions available for support workers. Reporting to the Director of Nursing Services, the successful
candidates will provide personal care to residents. They must have excellent communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
They must be able to cope with the demands of personal care service and remain calm and courteous with clients and their families at
all times. They must be available to work days, evenings, nights, and weekends. Experience preferred but not required.
Reply in confidence to: Derek Sykes, Human Resources Director, Ferndale Lodge, Box 101, Littletown, BC V6X 2Z1.

453 Lower Town Road

Littletown, BC V6N 4N3

September 5, 2016

Mr. Derek Sykes

Human Resources Director
Ferndale Lodge
Box 101
Littletown, BC V6X 2Z1

Dear Mr. Sykes:

I am writing to apply for one of the support worker positions that were advertised in the September 4
issue of The Star Daily.

You specified that Ferndale Lodge is seeking qualified support workers with excellent communications,
problem-solving, and organizational skills. I attended the support worker program at Central Vancouver
College, where I developed strong organizational skills and finished in the top third of the class. Before
enrolling in the support worker program, I worked as a full-time cashier while raising three children. In
my position as a cashier for Fresh Food, I interacted with the public and treated all customers with respect,
tact, and courtesy. I was promoted to the customer service desk, where I learned how to solve customers’
problems efficiently and diplomatically.

I am a mature, hard-working person who enjoys working with people. I am also assertive, persuasive,
and adaptable to new situations. Because I am highly motivated to begin a new career in support work,
I would be a productive and enthusiastic employee. I am available to work all the times that you listed
in your advertisement, including weekends.

Enclosed you will find a resumé that details my skills and experience. At your convenience, I would like
to meet to discuss how I can contribute to Ferndale Lodge.

Sincerely,

Belinda Lau
(604) 345-6789
bflau@internet.ca

Enclosure

FIGURE 47–3 A sample advertisement and a solicited letter of application.

 CHAPTER 47 Starting Your Career 1085

105 Pine Avenue

Hamilton, ON L4W 5Y3 Include return address

October 15, 2016 Include today’s date

Ms. Katherine Ferrero Identify the name and title

Director of Personnel of contact, and address of
Mapleview Health Care Agency prospective employer
1572 Maple Road
Hamilton, ON L9P 8B2

Dear Ms. Ferrero: Include a greeting

I read in The Sun Daily on October 14 that Mapleview Health Care Agency Identify the position
is expanding its home care services. I am writing to ask you to consider me if
you need support workers.

The article in The Sun Daily indicated that Mapleview Health Care Agency Indicate your knowledge
offers a wide range of services to people in their homes, including personal of the facility or agency
care, meal preparation, and housekeeping. While completing a support Indicate your
worker course at Ontario Institute for Applied Health Sciences, I acquired qualifications
skills in all those areas. For my six-week field placement, I provided personal
care to clients with dementia. In this position, I learned how to balance Link your skills to the job
requirements; explain
multiple demands by providing safe, dependable care in a timely manner to what you have learned
vulnerable people. Because many of them could not speak for themselves, I from experience
also had the opportunity to act as an advocate on their behalf at times.

I am a mature, responsible person who works well independently and as part Highlight personal
qualities and other skills
of a team. Because I enjoy helping people, I know you would find me a relevant to the job
competent and enthusiastic support worker.

Please find enclosed my resumé, which outlines my skills and experience in Indicate that your resumé
is enclosed
detail. I hope to have the opportunity to meet you to discuss how I can
contribute to Mapleview Health Care Agency. Next week I will call you to Ask for an interview
discuss the possibility of an interview.

Sincerely,
Include a signature block

Kaylee Sauvé
(905) 725-9589
ksauve@link.com

Enclosure

FIGURE 47–4 An unsolicited letter of application.

1086 CHAPTER 47 Starting Your Career
If you write an unsolicited letter, find out as much
as you can about the employer first. As mentioned
earlier in this chapter, many agencies and facilities
have websites that contain information about their
health care goals and practices. For example, a facil-
ity’s website might emphasize respect, compassion,
and innovation as important goals. In your letter, you
could indicate experiences in which you have dem-
onstrated these qualities.
Organizing a Letter of Application
(Cover Letter)
Use a standard letter format to organize your letter.
Front Matter
• Return address. Put your mailing address at the
top left-hand corner of the page.
• Today’s date. Include today’s date on the left-hand
side of the letter beneath your return address.
• Name, title, and address of prospective employer.
Include the contact person’s name, title, and
address aligned with the left-hand margin. Ensure
that this information is correct. You may have to
call the facility or agency to confirm it. If you are
unable to find out the person’s name, you may
have to exclude this information.
• Greeting. Greet the person you are writing to in
a professional manner. If you do not know the
name, write “Dear Sir or Madam.”
Body
• Paragraph one. Identify the job, indicate how you
learned about it, and explain your purpose for
writing. In unsolicited letters, use this opening
paragraph to ask about potential opportunities.
• Paragraph two. Explain how your qualifications,
experience, and skills relate to the position you are
seeking.
• Paragraph three. Describe personal qualities or
additional skills that make you a suitable
candidate.
Closing
• Paragraph four. Use the concluding paragraph to
ask for an interview. If the letter is unsolicited, say
that you will contact the reader at a future date.
Refer the reader to the enclosed resumé.
• Signature block. End the letter in a profes-
sional manner by writing “Sincerely” or “Yours
truly.” Leave some space, and type your name
at the end of the letter. Sign in ink above the
typed name. Add your phone number and email
address after your name. Type “Enclosure” at the
bottom of the page to indicate that your resumé is
enclosed.
Writing Your Letter of Application
You will probably have to write several drafts to
create a convincing letter. First, concentrate on
putting down your main points on an outline. As
you revise the content of the letter, ask yourself the
following questions:
• Have I emphasized relevant skills and qualities?
Mention experiences that demonstrate the skills,
qualities, and attitudes necessary to support work.
For example, if you have worked as a sales clerk,
emphasize your positive interactions with clients.
• Have I emphasized accomplishments and skills?
Rather than simply listing the tasks performed,
explain what your experience has taught you. You
might say “Working as a sales clerk taught me how
to interact with the public in a warm, courteous,
and respectful manner.”
• Have I used an appropriate tone? Your letter
should be written in a respectful, capable, and
professional tone. Be persuasive without being
boastful. Minimize the use of the word “I” to
sound more modest. If you lack experience, avoid
an apologetic tone.
• Is my letter concise? Your letter should not be
more than one page long. If it is longer, edit out
some of the details.
• Does my letter sound and look professional?
Proofread your letter carefully and have at least
two reliable people also read it. Sometimes, it
helps to read your letter out loud, trying to listen
for grammar and sentence structure errors. Create
it on a computer. Use a standard business letter
format, and print out the letter on high-quality
paper (if submitting a paper copy). Double-check
that your contact information is correct. You
should be completely sure that a prospective
employer can reach you.

BOX 47–2 Sample of an Email to an
Employer When Submitting
a Resumé
Subject: Job Application and Resumé
Dear Sir or Madam:
I am applying for the position of Personal
Support Worker that you advertised in the London
Free Press on July 4, 2016, and have attached a
cover letter with my resumé. As you can see, I am
available for hire immediately.
Sincerely,
Mariane Blankette
Delivering Your Letter of Application
and Resumé
Some employers request that the applicant deliver
the resumé by mail or in person. Hand-deliver your
letter of application and resumé whenever possible
to make sure it arrives on time. Another method of
delivery is courier. Make sure that it is directed to
the correct department or room, especially if you are
applying to a large agency such as a hospital. Follow
up with a telephone call to find out if the letter
reached the appropriate person. If you respond to an
advertisement, send out your letter and resumé as
soon as possible. Sometimes the earliest applicants
get more attention simply because their applications
arrived first.
Many employers request that letters and resumés
be submitted by email (BOX 47–2). Because software
programs vary, your resumé could lose its format-
ting, or the prospective employer could have dif-
ficulty opening your attachment. This issue can be
avoided by sending your resumé in PDF format.
Some employers refuse to accept electronic attach-
ments, which can be infected with a virus, so you
may be asked to copy and paste your letter into
the body of your email. If you send your letter
and resumé by email, send a hard copy as well.
(However, if the employer asks the applicant not
to submit a hard copy, you need to abide by this
request.)
CHAPTER 47 Starting Your Career 1087
Tips on Conveying Professionalism
Electronically
Since many employers post job opportunities on the
Internet, and many applicants apply electronically,
here are a few tips to ensure that you get the best
attention:
• Your email background should be electronically
neutral. Do not have a patterned or designed
background.
• Ensure that your email address is a professional one.
Never create a childish or offensive email address.
• Never use abbreviations that are used on social
media sites, known as “cyber-speak” (short forms
for words or phrases, such as “LOL” or “CU
later”). In any communication for professional
purposes, whether on paper or online, you should
use full sentences, appropriate punctuation, and
correct and appropriate spelling and grammar.
• Ensure that your resumé is in the correct file
format (e.g., Microsoft Word or Adobe Acrobat).
If you are unsure, contact the agency to find out
or send the resumé in both formats.
• Do not have attachments or postscripts that open
automatically (that indicate that you listen to a
particular radio station, for example).
COMPLETING A JOB
APPLICATION FORM
For some positions, you are expected to complete a
preset job application form when employers need to
find out specific information about their applicants.
Institutions may use forms as a way to test applicants’
reading, comprehension, and writing skills. It is a
good idea to attach your resumé to the job applica-
tion form, even when one is not required.
Most application forms ask for information about
the following:
• Your legal eligibility to work in Canada
• Your education
• Your work-related skills
• Your employment history
• Names and phone numbers of employers
• Reasons for leaving previous jobs
• The names and phone numbers of three references
1088 CHAPTER 47 Starting Your Career
Remember that the completed application form says
something about you. It should be professional
looking and have no spelling or grammar mistakes
or unfilled columns. Do a thorough job of filling out
the form. If possible, take two copies of the form
home with you. Use one as a rough copy and the
other as your final copy. Ask someone reliable to read
and check the final copy. If you make an error on the
final copy, use correction fluid or tape to make the
correction.
Application forms often require detailed informa-
tion, such as the reason for leaving a job. You must
answer every question truthfully. If you have been
fired, or if you have an inconsistent work history,
consider attaching a note of explanation.
Some employers require you to submit an online
application form. Be just as careful with an online
application as you would be with a hard copy. Ask
someone reliable to read it over before you send it.
Using Social Networking Sites
The use of Internet social networking sites to apply
for jobs or to post work availability has been increas-
ing sharply. However, there are some important
points to remember when posting information
electronically:
• Manage your identity. You wish employers to be
able to contact you, but some identifying informa-
tion such as a personal address may be misused by
some people.
• Control your privacy settings. You can restrict the
information that is distributed.
• Pay attention to the professionalism of your social
media page or personal website since employers
will read it. Pictures of you and your friends drink-
ing at a party, for example, will convince some
employers not to contact you.
• Avoid errors in spelling and grammar and the use
of slang terms, which may be interpreted as
unprofessional by some potential employers!1
THE INTERVIEW
You will not be hired as a support worker unless
someone first interviews you and decides you are the
right person for the job. During the interview, a
prospective employer or client is trying to determine
the following:
• Do you have the educational qualifications for
the job?
• Do you have the skills necessary to do the job, or
can you learn those skills?
• Will clients and co-workers respond well to you?
• Will you be a reliable, responsible, and motivated
employee?
The interview is a key factor in any job search.
From the interview, prospective employers decide if
you have essential personal qualities such as compas-
sion, respect, and enthusiasm. They can also judge if
you are a good listener, if you speak clearly, and if
you are at ease with others.
Interviewers may ask questions to find out the
following:
• Can you handle the stress of working with ser-
iously ill people?
• Can you deal with interpersonal conflict?
• Would you respond calmly and responsibly to an
emergency?
• Are you capable of being firm and assertive with
clients?
• Are you flexible enough to adapt to a variety of
situations?
• Can you handle multiple demands and conflicts?
• Can you work under minimal supervision?
• Do you have initiative?
• Are you an effective team player?
• Can you handle routine problems on your own?
• Are you discreet?
• Do you respect individual differences?
• Are you a quick learner?
• Are you effective at managing your time?
Many interviewers ask situational questions, which
are questions that are designed to find out what you
would do in certain situations. You may be asked a
question about an imaginary situation, or you may
be asked to describe what you did in a particular
situation you have encountered in the past.
Always be well prepared for an interview. When
you are nervous, it can be difficult to think and speak
clearly. If you have thought about possible questions

and answers, you are more likely to be at ease. To
prepare for an interview, think about the following:
• The position. Make sure you understand the
nature of the position. Learn about the employer’s
services, clients, and philosophy. Read informa-
tion about the employer that is available to the
general public—for example, on its website and in
brochures. Talk to friends, instructors, and
acquaintances who know the agency or facility.
Review the skills and qualities that are essential to
support work.
• Your qualities, skills, and experience. Develop a
clear understanding of yourself: your values, skills,
qualities, interests, goals, strengths, and weak-
nesses. Write these down, along with specific
experiences that illustrate each.
• Your portfolio. Review your personal portfolio
and decide what you should highlight at each indi-
vidual interview. What will impress each employer
most? Bring your portfolio with you to your inter-
view in case the interviewer wants photocopies of
any of the pages.
• Your reference list. Most employers will require
you to provide at least three references. Print off a
list of references and a hard copy of your resumé,
and attach them together. Your reference list
should always be in the same font as the rest of
your resumé.
• The interviewer. Put yourself in the interviewer’s
place. Review your letter of application and
resumé. Why do you think you were selected for
an interview? What concerns might the inter-
viewer have about you? For example, if you are
young and inexperienced, the interviewer may
be concerned about your maturity level. If you
have never remained in a job for more than a
year, the interviewer may be concerned about
your commitment. Be prepared to address these
issues.
The Group Interview
More Than One Applicant
Occasionally, an agency may want to fill several pos-
itions, especially if it is short-staffed. In order to save
time and trouble for the people who are doing the
interviewing, the agency may group two or more
CHAPTER 47 Starting Your Career 1089
applicants together in a room and ask each applicant
specific questions. After one applicant has answered
the question, the other applicants are invited to
respond. Following this group interview, the appli-
cants may then be interviewed individually.
The benefit for you of this interview type is that
you might feel less nervous to know that “you are
not alone.” However, it can be intimidating to think
that your answers are being compared with the
answers of the other applicants in the room. Remem-
ber that, in this respect, it is no different from an
individual interview because responses of various
applicants will always be compared.
It is important to watch your body language and
your responses during this type of interview. Try to
watch each of the applicants as that person answers
questions. You want to appear friendly and polite. Do
not ever cut someone off while that person is speak-
ing. This type of interviewing is a good technique
for interviewers to identify a “team player” who has
effective communication skills (see Chapter 5).
More Than One Interviewer
For some interviews, there is only one applicant but
two or more interviewers, who will take turns asking
the applicant questions. The interviewers usually
read from a written list of prepared questions. Occa-
sionally, the interviewers may ask the applicant an
unscripted question for clarification of something
the applicant has said.
This type of interview is usually very thorough,
and the applicant may leave the room feeling over-
whelmed. You should be aware that the interviewers
are trying to determine if you can handle questions
well and if you can answer them in an honest and
sincere manner. They may ask you questions that test
your ability to solve problems. These questions typ-
ically begin with “What would you do if . . .” The
interviewers want to know how well you can apply
what you have learned in your support worker educa-
tion to the scenarios that they present to you. These
responses can be easily practised with a friend or a
classmate.
It is important to make eye contact with the inter-
viewer who is speaking as a question is being asked
(see Chapter 5). Remember, too, to use words and
body language that show that you are friendly and
approachable.
1090 CHAPTER 47 Starting Your Career
BOX 47–3 Common Interview Questions
• Tell me a little about yourself.
• What are your strengths?
• What are your weaknesses?
• Tell me about your last job.
• What did you like best or least about your last
job?
• Why did you leave your last job?
• Why do you want to be a support worker?
• What do you think are the three most important
qualities in a support worker?
• What do you think you can bring to support
work?
• What do you think is the biggest challenge in
support work?
• What do you like best or least about support
work?
• Describe a situation in which you have met
several demands.
• Describe a typical day in your last job.
Practising for Your Job Interview
Practice will give you confidence. When practising,
focus on making eye contact with the interviewer, as
well as on your listening skills, relaxation techniques,
and responses to questions you think might be asked.
Sit down only when invited to sit. Sit up comfortably
straight without slouching. Try to remember your
interviewer’s name.
Developing Listening Skills
The ability to listen is an important skill for inter-
views. If you fail to listen, you will not make a good
impression. Since listening is essential in support
work, an employer is unlikely to hire a poor listener
as a support worker. Be a good listener during the
interview by avoiding the following:
• Failing to concentrate on what the interviewer is
saying
• Failing to ask for clarification if the question is
unclear
• Talking too much
• Responding to questions too quickly without
thinking first about the answer
• How did you manage your time in your last job?
• What did you learn from your last job?
• Give me an example of how you have worked as
part of a team.
• Tell me about a time you showed initiative on
the job.
• Tell me about a problem you had in your last job.
How did you handle it?
• Tell me about a conflict you had with a client or
co-worker. How did you handle it?
• What would your former supervisor tell me
about your strengths and weaknesses?
• I am going to give you a made-up situation. Tell
me how you would handle it.
Some employers may present a scenario that
involves witnessing some kind of abuse by a
co-worker. The employer may ask you how you
would deal with this type of situation, both at the
time of witnessing it and later.
Practising Relaxation Techniques
You will probably listen more attentively if you feel
relaxed in the interview. Deep-breathing exercises
and other relaxation techniques can help you relax
(see Chapter 7).
Practising Your Responses
Most interviewers ask similar questions. See BOX 47–3
for a list of commonly asked questions. Practise your
responses to these questions in front of a mirror or
with a friend.
Planning
Plan ahead so that things go smoothly on the inter-
view day.
• Decide what you are going to wear and make sure
that the clothing is clean and pressed. Get a haircut
if you need one.
• If the route to the venue of the interview is
unfamiliar, do a “practice run” so that you will not
get lost on the interview day. Leave yourself at least

30 minutes to spare in case of traffic delays on the
way to the interview.
• In addition to your portfolio, bring notepaper and
a pen that works.
• Do some research about the facility or agency by
checking available websites. Doing so shows initia-
tive and interest in working there.
• Plan a few informed questions to ask during your
interview (see p. 1092).
Making a Good Impression
In an interview, first impressions are crucial. Poor
impressions can be difficult to change, no matter
how well you do later in the interview. From the
moment you meet a prospective employer, you need
to present a calm and professional image. This advice
applies even when you stop by to pick up an applica-
tion form. Pay attention to your grooming, your
clothing, and your conduct.
Grooming
• Make sure your hair is clean, neat, and away from
your face.
• Brush and floss your teeth. If you are a heavy
coffee drinker or a smoker, bring breath mints
with you (but do not have them in your mouth
during the interview).
• Be careful not to wear too much makeup.
• Wear minimal jewellery. Avoid large bracelets,
rings, and earrings.
• Remove body ornaments such as nose rings and
eyebrow studs; cover any tattoos.
• Do not wear any perfume, cologne, or heavily
scented lotions.
• Make sure your nails are trimmed. If you wear nail
polish, use a neutral colour.
• Keep any facial hair trimmed and well groomed.
• If possible, wash and thoroughly dry your hands
before you shake hands with the interviewer,
especially if your palms perspire when you are
nervous.
Clothing
• Men should wear clothing that is professional in
appearance and businesslike, such as a shirt and
dress pants. Women should wear a dress, blouse or
sweater with either a skirt or tailored pants. Do not
CHAPTER 47 Starting Your Career 1091
wear jeans, T-shirts, or shorts. Your outfit should fit
properly, be in good repair, and be wrinkle-free.
• Wear clothing that fully covers undergarments
such as panties, bras, or boxer shorts. Ensure these
cannot be seen through the clothing.
• Avoid clothing that is tight fitting or revealing.
• Try clothing on at home and practise sitting and
walking in the clothing in front of a mirror, if
possible. Doing so is a good way to see if your
clothing looks professional and feels comfortable
when sitting. If you have access to one, inspect
yourself in front of a full-length mirror.
• If wearing pantyhose or tights, make sure that
there are no holes or runs. Carry an extra pair in
case you need to change them.
• Shoes should be in good repair and well polished.
Avoid casual shoes, such as running shoes or
sandals, and shoes with very high heels.
Conduct
• Arrive in the lobby 5 to 10 minutes before the
interview.
• Do not bring anyone with you. If someone has
driven you to the place, ask the person to wait
outside.
• Do not carry your cellphone in your hand. Place
it in your purse, pocket, or on a holster. Make sure
it is shut off for the interview.
• Do not chew gum, smoke, or eat as you wait for
the interviewer. Ensure that your clothing does
not smell of tobacco.
• Do not ask to use the phone, talk on a cellphone,
or text-message anyone while waiting.
• Do not talk with the receptionist unless that
person starts the conversation.
• If you feel nervous, take deep breaths to calm
yourself.
Interview Tips
Being adequately prepared should help you feel
relaxed during the interview. If you feel calm, you
are more able to focus on details that may help you
get the job. Some of these are discussed below.
• Use a firm handshake. When you meet the inter-
viewer, shake hands and smile. Use a firm hand-
shake. A limp, clammy handshake makes a poor
1092 CHAPTER 47 Starting Your Career
impression. Make sure your hands are dry. If your
palms are perspiring, wipe them on a tissue as you
wait in the lobby.
• Do not use the interviewer’s first name. The excep-
tion is if you are asked by the interviewer to do so.
However, do address the interviewer by name.
• Project a confident image. Whether sitting or
standing, practise good posture, breathe deeply to
relax, and avoid nervous habits such as picking at
your fingernails or fiddling with your hair. Be
aware of gestures and body language that might
be perceived negatively, such as crossed arms. Look
the interviewer in the eye, and keep your hands
folded in your lap.
• Make appropriate eye contact when speaking
(see Chapter 5).
• Listen carefully. If you listen carefully, you should
be able to answer questions concisely and directly.
Do not be afraid to ask the interviewer to repeat
a question.
• Take your time. Some people talk quickly when
they are nervous. Slow down, take a deep breath,
and think about the question before you answer.
An answer given too quickly may sound rehearsed.
• Answer questions honestly. You must be honest
in your answers. If you do not understand a ques-
tion or are unsure of an answer, say so. Do not try
to hide aspects of your past that you think may
disqualify you from the job. Instead, explain how
you have learned from past mistakes. For example,
if you were fired from your last position, explain
the reason and give examples of how you have
corrected the behaviour.
• Speak positively about your previous job. Do
not demean, ridicule, appear upset with, or speak
critically about your previous employer, regardless
of the circumstances, as doing so may suggest a
negative attitude or an aversion to authority.
• Use experiences to support opinions. When you
are asked for your opinion, support your answer
with examples from your experience. For instance,
after saying, “I think it’s important for support
workers to know their scope of practice,” describe
a situation that illustrates this point. If you are
inexperienced, use an example from your course
of study.
• Ask the right questions. Most interviewers con-
clude by asking if you have any questions. The
questions you prepared in advance may have been
answered during the interview. Rather than trying
to think up new questions, it is acceptable to say
something like, “No, I don’t have any questions.
You have addressed all the questions that I had
during our discussion.” If you do have a question,
make sure that it is appropriate. Do not ask ques-
tions about the salary, benefits, hours, and vaca-
tion times. It is suitable, though, to ask about
these when you are offered the position.
• Concluding the interview. At the end of the inter-
view, thank the interviewer for her time. Show
confidence and enthusiasm by saying something
like, “I am really interested in working for your
facility, and I am sure I could be a productive
member of your staff.” Whatever you say, it is
important to be genuine.
Follow-Up
Send a brief thank-you note after an interview. Write
the note as soon as possible, no later than the day
following the interview. The thank-you note will
indicate that you are enthusiastic and courteous, and
it might set you apart from other candidates.
The note can be handwritten or prepared on a
computer. If you write the note by hand, use a plain
white note card. Write at least one draft before you
write the final copy. Ask someone else to read the
note before you send it. Mail the note rather than
sending it by email. This approach shows the
employer you are prepared to make an effort.
Express your thanks for the interview and reinforce
your interest in the position. Sign your name on the
card (see FIGURE 47–5 for a sample note).
THE EMPLOYMENT OFFER
You may be offered the position at the end of the
interview or within a few days following the inter-
view. Or you may wait weeks before hearing any-
thing. Instead of sitting by the phone and waiting,
continue to explore other opportunities. Even if you
are not offered a job, the interview experience will
have been worthwhile if you learn something from
it. Review the interview process by asking yourself
the questions in BOX 47–4.
 CHAPTER 47 Starting Your Career 1093

October 03, 2016

Dear Ms. Frye,

Thank you for the interview on Wednesday morning. I

appreciated the opportunity to meet you and to discuss
your needs for the support worker position at Greenacres.

As I mentioned at the end of the interview, I am very

interested in the position. I am sure that my recent
experience in home care would enable me to make an
immediate contribution to your care team.

Once again, thank you for your time and interest. I look
forward to hearing from you.

All the best,

Sumi Ramarashan
(604) 432-7376

FIGURE 47–5 A sample thank-you note.

BOX 47–4 Learning From the Interview Experience

• Was I prepared enough? Did I practise my listen-
ing skills, relaxation techniques, and responses to
potential questions?
• Did I arrive for the interview in plenty of time?
• Did I pay enough attention to my grooming, my
clothing, and my conduct?
• Did I project a calm, professional, positive image?
• Did I present a portfolio that represented me in
a professional manner?
• Did I listen attentively?
• Did I speak clearly and calmly?
• Did I answer all questions honestly?
• Did I use my experiences to support my
opinions?
• Did I relate my skills and experience to the
requirements of the job?
• Did I show enthusiasm for the job?
• Did I express interest in the job at the end of the
interview?
• Did I send a thank-you note after the
interview?
1094 CHAPTER 47 Starting Your Career
If you are not offered the job, contact the employer
to find out why. Ask if you can talk to the person who
interviewed you, either in person or on the phone.
Most employers are willing to talk to people who are
genuinely interested in improving their skills.
Approach this conversation as a learning opportun-
ity; do not sound angry, bitter, or accusatory.
Accepting an Offer
A conditional offer is often made in the form of a
letter of hire, which your employer will show you at
the end of the interview, during a subsequent meeting,
or by mail. Signing the conditional offer (and email-
ing, faxing, or mailing it back) indicates that you
have accepted the position. Before you accept an
offer of employment, find out as much as you can
about the terms of your employment. Find out if the
offer is conditional and if the job begins with a trial
period.
Terms of Employment
At the time of the job offer, make sure that you clarify
your wages, your hours of work, requirements, and
expectations. If, for example, a car is required for the
position, find out the employer’s policy on car mileage
and repairs. Many employers publish procedure
manuals that should address your questions.
If the job is a contract position, find out the length
of the contract, the terms of the contract, and what
is and is not included in the contract prior to
accepting the offer.
If you are hired directly by a client or a client’s
family, you must specify the terms of your employ-
ment. The client may be required to contribute to
Employment Insurance and Canada Pension Plan.
The client may also be required to submit your taxes
directly to the government. Before you accept
employment directly with a client, read Revenue
Canada’s booklet Employee or Self-Employed (Cata-
logue Number RC4110), which is available online or
at your local Canada Revenue Agency office.
Conditional Offer
In the health care field, an offer of employment
is often conditional, meaning that you must meet
certain conditions or requirements before you are
hired. These conditions usually include a health
report signed by your family physician that confirms
that you are in good health and a police record check
that shows that you do not have a criminal record.
You are responsible for providing all required docu-
ments. Note that there may be a fee to obtain these
documents. Some employers may also require that
you have certain equipment necessary to perform the
job. For example, in community settings, a cellphone
may be essential.
Probation
Most employers hire new staff for a probationary
(trial) period that lasts 3 to 6 months. During this
time, both you and the employer can decide if you
are the right fit for the job. Within this period, the
employer can end your employment at any time or
you can leave without the usual 2 weeks’ notice,
although giving notice will possibly get you a
reference.
Benefits
Find out what you can about an employer’s benefits
package. Many employers have booklets that explain
their benefit plan. Benefits do not usually begin until
the end of the probationary period. If you work part-
time, you may not be eligible for benefits. Be espe-
cially careful to find out about benefits if you are
working directly for a client in the client’s home.
How to Refuse or Leave a Job Without Leaving a
Negative Impression
Occasionally, you might decide that you cannot
work at an agency or facility (or you decide to leave
the agency or facility). Quitting a job is a difficult
thing to do, as it is important that the employer has
a good impression of you. Many employers spend a
lot of time and effort, both of which cost money, to
train their employees and are understandably not
happy when they leave, especially after a short period.
Remember, you might want to return to that
employer in the future! Ask to meet with your super-
visor in person, and show up for this meeting dressed
professionally. Remember, this meeting is the last
chance you have to make a good impression!
It is important to give an employer adequate notice
when you intend to leave. Two weeks’ notice is con-
sidered to be the minimal amount of notice to give;
most employers would prefer more time than that, if

at all possible. Employers are more likely to provide
a good reference when sufficient notice is given and
the employee continues to be reliable through the
duration of employment.
Refusing a job or leaving a job because you are
going back to school, have been hired at another
agency on a full-time basis (assuming your current
position is part-time), are moving to another city,
or are pregnant and have decided not to work for
some time is easy to convey to an employer. It
is important—whatever the reason—that you be
honest, tactful, and pleasant to the employer.
If, however, you are leaving because you do not
like the atmosphere of the workplace or you are
unhappy with the agency or facility in any way, you
need to be able to state your feelings tactfully as well!
Prepare what you are going to say ahead of time. If
necessary, write down your thoughts on small index
cards so that you can refer to them. Always begin by
stating what you liked about the workplace. Be as fair
CHAPTER 47 Starting Your Career 1095
as possible, remembering that you wanted to work
there once!
When stating what you do not like about the
agency or facility, be as specific as possible. Instead
of stating, “Well, I don’t like the staff,” you can be
more specific (and therefore more helpful) if you can
say, “I do not agree with the afternoon staff who put
residents in bed by 6:30 p.m. I think the residents
should have a say as to when they are put in bed, and
their families should be involved in the decision
process.” Remember, you must always be honest. Do
not lie or exaggerate a story to win favour with the
supervisor!
Your statements inform the supervisor of the issues
that exist in the agency or facility. If you are a valued
employee, the supervisor might ask if you would
reconsider your decision to leave. This is a choice
only you can make. Regardless of whether your deci-
sion is to stay or leave, you should always be profes-
sional and pleasant when conveying it.
 CHAPTER REVIEW
KEY POINTS
• Finding a job takes discipline, focus, and hard
work. However, it can be done when you have
good preparation and a sound plan.
• Resumé writing begins with (1) collecting neces-
sary supplies and equipment and (2) identifying
and setting your priorities and goals.
• In creating your resumé, you should ask yourself
the following: (1) Is the information relevant? (2)
Have I been completely honest? (3) Have I
expressed myself clearly? (4) Is my resumé consist-
ent? (5) Have I accounted for all of my time? (6)
Is my resumé correct?
• The resumé should be accompanied by a letter of
application (cover letter).
• In an interview, you need to (1) convey your qual-
ities, skills, and experience in a positive manner
and (2) make a good impression.
• Follow up an interview with a brief thank-you
note.
• Learn from any and all interviews. If you are not
being offered positions, you need to honestly ask
yourself why.
CRITICAL THINKING IN PRACTICE
You are newly graduated and have been applying for
various support worker jobs. A potential employer
called you for an interview and then asked you to
supply the names and contact information of three
references. You forgot to inform one of your refer-
ences that you used her name as a reference contact.
The agency called her and, during the conversation,
she informed the agency that you did not seek per-
mission to use her name as a reference. As a result,
you did not get this job. Is that fair to you? Is it
important to ask your references each time you apply
for a job? Why or why not?
1096
REVIEW QUESTIONS
Answers to these questions are at the bottom of
page 1097.
Circle T if the answer is true, and circle F if the
answer is false.
1. T F It is best to prepare your resumé before
you begin your job search.
2. T F A resumé is revised for each position
applied for.
3. T F Every resumé should include an objective
and a career profile.
4. T F A chronological resumé is best for those
with a steady work history in their chosen
field.
5. T F A functional resumé should not include
employment history.
6. T F Resumés should make extensive use of
graphics.
7. T F It is best to ask your references what they
plan to say about you.
8. T F A letter of application should summarize
the information from your resumé.
9. T F A solicited letter of application inquires
about potential job openings.
10. T F A letter of application should list duties
held in previous positions.
11. T F Most employers overlook small mistakes
on letters, resumés, and applications.
12. T F It is acceptable to wear jeans to an
interview as long as they are clean.
13. T F It is unacceptable to bring a friend to an
interview, even if that person stays in
the lobby.
14. T F The ability to listen is one of the most
important skills for an interview.
15. T F It is a good idea to bring a prepared list of
questions to an interview.

16. T F It is usually not necessary to practise
answering questions before an interview.
17. T F Assume you can address the interviewer
by that person’s first name.
18. T F It is best not to ask about salary, benefits,
and holidays during an interview.
Chapter opener image: garagestock/Shutterstock.com
CHAPTER 47 Starting Your Career 1097
19. T F Never admit in an interview that you have
been fired from a previous position.
20. T F If an offer is conditional, it is usually firm.
12.F, 13.T, 14.T, 15.T, 16.F, 17.F, 18.T, 19.F, 20.F
Answers: 1.T, 2.T, 3.F, 4.T, 5.F, 6.F, 7.T, 8.F, 9.F, 10.F, 11.F,
This page intentionally left blank
Appendix

Support Workers From Across Canada

Province or Territory Job Title(s)
British Columbia Health Care Assistant
Alberta Health Care Aide
Saskatchewan Continuing Care Assistant
Manitoba Health Care Aide
Ontario Personal Support Worker
Developmental Service Worker
Quebec Home Health Aide
Home Support Worker
New Brunswick Personal Support Worker
Nova Scotia Continuing Care Assistant
Prince Edward Island Resident Care Worker
Newfoundland & Labrador Home Support Worker/Personal Care Attendant
Yukon Health Care Assistant
Northwest Territories Personal Support Worker
Nunavut Home Support Worker
Community Support Worker

1099
This page intentionally left blank
Glossary
abbreviation A shortened form of a word or phrase.
p. 196
abduction Movement of a body part away from the
midline of the body. p. 539
abrasion A partial-thickness wound caused by the
scraping away or rubbing of skin. p. 463
absorption The process by which substances pass
through the intestinal wall into the blood. p. 570
abuse Physical or mental harm caused by someone
in a position of trust. p. 253
accessibility A principle of the Canada Health Act that
states that people must have reasonable access to
insured health care services. p. 24
accountability The willingness to accept responsibil-
ity and to explain one’s actions, inactions or omis-
sions, intentions, and decisions. p. 91
acquired brain injury (ABI) Damage to brain tissue
caused by disease, medical condition, accident, or
violence. Also known as traumatic brain injury.
p. 776
acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS)
Immune system disease caused by human immuno-
deficiency virus (HIV). p. 880
act A specific law that has passed through the required
legislative steps. p. 131
active immunity Natural acquisition of an illness,
resulting in the body developing the antibodies to
protect a person from getting it again. p. 300
active listening A nonjudgemental communication
technique that focuses not only on understanding
the content of what is being said but also on the
underlying emotions and feelings conveyed by the
sender. Active listeners concentrate fully on what is
being said and pay attention to the client’s nonver-
bal cues. p. 71
activities of daily living (ADLs) Self-care activities
people perform daily to remain independent and to
function in society. p. 4
acute care Health care that is provided for a relatively
short time (usually days to weeks) and is intended
to diagnose and treat an immediate health issue.
p. 35
acute illness An illness or disability that appears sud-
denly and lasts for a short period, usually less than
3 months. p. 35
acute pain Sudden pain due to injury, disease, trauma,
or surgery; it generally lasts less than 6 months.
p. 178
acute stress A type of stress that is short in duration.
p. 101
adduction Movement of a body part toward the
midline of the body. p. 539
administrator The person appointed by the provincial
courts to administer the estate of a client who has
died without leaving a will. p. 140
admission Official entry of a client into a hospital or
other health care facility. p. 1036
adolescence Ages approximately 12 to 18—the time
between puberty and adulthood; a time of rapid
growth and physical, sexual, psychological, and
social maturity. p. 312
adult day centre See community day program.
p. 40
adult day program See community day program.
p. 40
advance care directive See advance directive.
p. 138
advance directive A legal document in which a person
states wishes about future health care, treatment,
and personal care. Also known as an advance care
directive or a living will. p. 138
adverse effect A dangerous or unwanted side effect
of a medication. p. 995
advocate To speak or act on behalf of another person
or group of people. p. 3
1101
1102 Glossary
affect A person’s feelings, emotions, and moods and
the way the person demonstrates them. p. 781
afternoon care Routine care that occurs between
lunch and the evening meal in a facility. p. 613
ageism Feelings of impatience, intolerance or preju-
dice based on negative attitudes and stereotypes
toward a person or group of people because of their
age. p. 151
age-related macular degeneration (AMD; ARMD)
The breakdown (degeneration) of the macula (the
light-sensitive part of the retina). AMD is a disease
associated with aging that gradually destroys sharp,
central vision. p. 919
allergy A sensitivity to a substance that causes the
body to react with signs or symptoms. p. 578
alopecia Hair loss. p. 651
alternating pressure mattress A special type of mat-
tress that has alternating areas of pressure of air,
gel, or water baffles to reduce the risk for pressure
sores. p. 750
alternative remedies Herbal or other “natural” prod-
ucts that do not require a physician’s prescription.
p. 991
Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD)
A progressive, degenerative disease that gradually
destroys nerve cells (neurons) in most areas of the
brain and causes thinking and memory to become
seriously impaired; the most common form of
dementia. p. 810
ambulation The act of walking. p. 545
AM care Routine care given in a facility before lunch.
AM care sometimes occurs before breakfast. Also
known as early morning care and morning care.
p. 613
amenorrhea Absence of at least three consecutive
menstrual periods as normally expected to occur.
p. 788
amputation The removal of all or part of an extremity.
p. 854
amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) A degenerative
disease characterized by loss of the motor neurons,
with progressive weakness and atrophy of the
muscles of the hands, forearms, and legs, spreading
to involve most of the body and face. Also known
as Lou Gehrig’s disease. p. 862
anaesthesia The loss of feeling or sensation, pro-
duced by a medication that blocks pain impulses to
the brain. p. 1049
anaphylaxis A severe allergic reaction that occurs
rapidly and causes a life-threatening response
involving the whole body. p. 996
anatomical position The body standing erect, with
the feet shoulder-width apart, face forward, arms at
the sides, and palms of the hands facing forward.
p. 273
aneurysm A localized dilation of the wall of an artery
or heart chamber. p. 860
angina pectoris Chest (pectoris) pain (angina) caused
by ischemia, a lack of blood supply to the heart
muscle, which is usually caused by an obstruction
or spasm of the coronary arteries because of coron-
ary artery disease. p. 864
anterior Located at or toward the front of the body or
body part. Also called ventral. p. 195
anti-embolic stockings Close-fitting, circular, knitted,
elastic stocking that are designed to prevent swell-
ing in lower extremities or blood clots by increasing
venous return to the heart. They are also called
compression stockings, or thromboembolic devices
(TED). p. 680
antigen A substance, usually a protein, that the body
recognizes as foreign and that can evoke an immune
response. p. 995
anxiety A vague, uneasy feeling, often including a
sense of impending danger or harm. p. 104
anxiety disorders A group of mental health disorders
whose main symptom is anxiety, with fears and
worries so disproportionate to the situation as to
affect normal functioning. p. 783
apathy An absence of emotional feeling, which
appears as indifference. p. 807
aphasia Partial or complete loss (a) of speech and
language skills (phasia) caused by brain injury.
p. 903
apnea The lack or absence (a) of breathing (pnea).
p. 932
apraxia Impairment of the skilled motor system,
resulting in the loss of being able to perform learned,
purposeful movements, including activities of
daily living (bathing, brushing teeth, and so on).
p. 809
apraxia of speech Inability (a) to correctly move
(praxia) the muscles used to speak. Apraxia is usually
caused by a brain injury. p. 904
aquathermia pad A waterproof plastic or rubber pad
that can be applied to areas of muscle sprain,
edema, or mild inflammation in the place of a heating
pad or cold pack. p. 1022
arrhythmia Abnormal (a) heart rhythm (rhythmia).
p. 867
arterial ulcer An open wound on the lower legs and
feet caused by poor arterial blood flow. p. 475

arteries Blood vessels that carry blood away from the
heart. p. 289
arteriole The smallest branch of an artery. p. 289
arthritis Joint (arthr) inflammation (itis). p. 855
arthroplasty Surgical replacement (plasty) of a joint
(arthro). p. 855
asepsis The practice of reducing or eliminating poten-
tial pathogens (bacteria, viruses, fungi, and para-
sites). There are two levels of asepsis: (1) medical
asepsis and (2) surgical asepsis. p. 432
aspiration Inhalation of fluid or an object into the
lungs. p. 588
assault Intentionally attempting to or threatening to
touch a person’s body without consent, causing the
person to fear bodily harm. p. 142
assertiveness A style of communication in which
thoughts and feelings are expressed positively and
directly without offending others. p. 79
assessment The evaluation of information collected
about the client through observation, reflection, and
communication; a step in the care-planning process.
p. 202
assigning Appointing someone to take on the respon-
sibility to complete a task while providing client care
or support. p. 92
assimilate Adopt the traditions of the larger society.
p. 150
assisted-living facility A residential facility where
residents live in their own apartments and are pro-
vided support services (also called supportive
housing facility). A retirement home is one type of
assisted-living facility. p. 36
asthma A respiratory disorder characterized by recur-
ring episodes of paroxysmal dyspnea (intermittent
spasms of shortness of breath); wheezing on expira-
tion, inspiration, or both, caused by constriction
(narrowing) of bronchi; coughing; and thick bron-
chial secretions of mucous. p. 867
athlete’s foot A highly contagious fungal skin infec-
tion that causes the affected foot to peel, burn, itch,
and turn red. p. 848
atrophy A decrease in size or wasting away of tissue.
p. 376
attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) A
disorder that causes inappropriate levels of inatten-
tion as well as hyperactive and impulsive behaviour.
p. 896
attitude A person’s beliefs, values, or opinions toward
engaging in healthy behaviours. p. 53
authority The legal right to do something. p. 92
Glossary 1103
autism spectrum disorder (ASD) A neuro-develop-
mental disorder that impairs a person’s ability to
communicate and interact with others. It can include
restricted repetitive behaviours, interests, and activ-
ities. p. 897
autonomy Having the freedom and choice to make
decisions that affect one’s life. Also known as self-
determination. p. 123
bacteria Single-celled microbes that naturally occur
on living, dead, or inanimate objects. p. 423
ball-and-socket joints Joints that allow movement in
all directions. They are made up of the rounded end
of one bone and the hollow end of another bone.
The rounded end of one fits into the hollow end of
the other. p. 279
base of support The area on which an object rests.
p. 494
battery The touching of a person’s body without the
person’s consent. p. 142
bed rails The metal or plastic sides of a hospital bed
that are used to prevent a client from falling out of
bed. p. 397
bedsore See pressure ulcer. p. 465
belief Conviction that something is true. p. 118
beneficence Doing or promoting good. p. 123
benefits Types of assistance that are provided through
available insurance premiums. An example of a
benefit is a dental procedure without any additional
cost to the consumer. p. 27
benign Noncancerous. p. 876
benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) An enlarged
prostate gland. p. 873
bias A point of view that prevents a person from being
impartial. p. 150
biofilm A thin film that sticks to the teeth; it contains
saliva, microbes, and other substances. p. 613
biohazardous waste Items that may be harmful
to others because they are contaminated with blood,
body fluids, secretions, or excretions; bio means
life and hazardous means dangerous or harmful.
p. 453
bipolar and related disorders A group of related
brain disorders that cause unusual shifts in a per-
son’s mood, energy, and ability to function. p. 779
blanket warmers Warming cabinets designed to heat
bed linens. p. 1014
blended family A couple with two or more children,
one or more of whom is the natural child of both
members of the couple and one or more of whom
is the stepchild of one member of the couple. p. 154
1104 Glossary
blister pack A transparent moulded piece of plastic
with multiple compartments, sealed to a sheet of
cardboard with a foil backing, used to package
individual-dose medications. Also known as a
bubble pack. p. 986
blood pressure The amount of force exerted by the
blood against the walls of an artery. p. 250
body alignment The way in which body parts (head,
trunk, arms, and legs) are positioned in relation to
one another, whether lying, sitting, or standing. Also
known as posture. p. 493
body language An important part of nonverbal com-
munication that can reveal a person’s physical,
mental, or emotional state through powerful mes-
sages such as gestures, postures, and facial expres-
sions. p. 72
body mechanics The movement of the body. Proper
body mechanics ensure the body moves in an effi-
cient and careful way. p. 493
body temperature The amount of heat in the body; a
balance between the amount of heat produced and
the amount lost by the body. p. 230
boil See furuncle. p. 848
bony prominence An area on the body where the
underlying bone seems to “stick out.” p. 465
brace An apparatus worn to support or align weak
body parts or to prevent or correct problems with
the musculo-skeletal system; also called an orth-
otic. p. 553
Braden Scale A scale used to predict the likelihood
of a client developing a pressure ulcer. p. 467
bradycardia A slow (brady) heart rate (cardia); a rate
less than 60 beats per minute. p. 237
bradypnea Slow (brady) breathing (pnea); respirations
are fewer than 12 per minute. p. 932
Braille A writing system for people who are visually
impaired that uses raised dots for each letter of the
alphabet. p. 922
bruise See contusion. p. 463
burnout A state of physical, emotional, and mental
exhaustion that results in feelings of discourage-
ment, negativity, and powerlessness. p. 101
Caesarean section A surgical incision into the abdom-
inal and uterine walls; the baby is delivered through
the incision. p. 324
call bell A safety device for clients in facilities that
enables them to notify staff that they need assist-
ance. p. 407
calorie A unit of measure of the energy produced as
the body burns food. p. 571
Canada Health Act (1984) Federal legislation that
clarifies the types of health care services that are
insured; it outlines five principles (comprehensive-
ness, universality, portability, accessibility, and
public administration) that must be met by prov-
inces and territories to qualify for federal health
funding. p. 22
Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms Part
of the Canadian Constitution that lists the basic
rights and freedoms to which all Canadians are
entitled. p. 130
cancer A group of diseases characterized by out-of-
control cell division and growth, which can occur in
many body systems. p. 876
cannula A type of plastic tubing threaded over a
needle; once in place in the vein, the needle is with-
drawn, leaving the cannula in place. Also called a
catheter. p. 604
capillaries The smallest form of blood vessels and the
site of nutrient, gas, and waste exchange between
cells and the bloodstream. p. 289
care conference See family conference. p. 90
care plan A document that details the care and servi-
ces the client must receive. p. 204
care-planning process The method used by nurses
and case managers to plan the client’s care with the
health care team. Also known as the nursing
process. p. 202
caring Concern for clients’ and their families’ dignity,
independence, preferences, privacy, and safety at
all times. True caring requires honesty, sensitivity,
comforting, discretion, and respect while showing
this concern. p. 16
carriers Persons who are able to transfer a pathogen
to others without getting an active infection them-
selves. p. 427
cartilage Connective tissue that cushions the joint so
that bone ends do not rub together. p. 279
case manager A manager who assesses, monitors,
and evaluates the needs of a client in a community
care setting and also coordinates the services of the
team. Also known as team leader. p. 91
cataract Clouding of the eye’s lens. p. 921
catheter See cannula. p. 604
catheterization The process of inserting a catheter.
p. 702
celiac disease Negative physical reaction to a gluten
protein found in wheat or related grains such as
barley, rye, and sometimes oats. p. 585
cell The basic functional unit of body structure and
function. p. 273

centre of gravity The point in the body in which
weight is evenly distributed or balanced on either
side. p. 493
cerebral palsy (CP) A disorder affecting muscle
control (palsy) caused by an injury or abnormality in
the motor region of the brain (cerebral). p. 892
cerumen Ear wax. p. 914
cervical mucus A viscous discharge secreted by the
glands in the cervix. p. 323
chart A legal document that details a client’s condi-
tion or illness and responses to care. Also called a
record. p. 210
charting See documentation. p. 215
chemical digestion The chemical breakdown of food
into small nutrient parts that the body can absorb
and utilize. p. 294
chemical restraints Medication that is ordered by a
doctor and given to a client to control unsafe,
undesirable, or bizarre behaviour or movement.
p. 396
chest tube A hollow plastic tube surgically inserted
into the chest cavity, which allows for the removal
of trapped air (pneumothorax) and the drainage
of blood or fluid (hemothorax or pleural effusion).
p. 956
Cheyne–Stokes Respirations that gradually increase
in rate and depth and then become shallow and
slow; breathing may stop (apnea) for 10 to 20
seconds. p. 932
child abuse Mistreatment or neglect of a child by a
parent, guardian, or caregiver. p. 259
child neglect Failure by a child’s parents or other
caregivers to meet the child’s basic needs for emo-
tional, psychological, and physical development.
p. 260
cholecystitis Inflammation of the gallbladder. p. 870
chronic illness See persistent illness. p. 35
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) A
persistent lung disorder that obstructs (blocks) the
airways; refers to chronic bronchitis and emphy-
sema. p. 868
chronic pain See persistent pain. p. 178
chronic stress Ongoing stress that can lead to
burnout. p. 101
chronic wound A wound that does not heal easily.
p. 463
chronological resumé A resumé that highlights
employment history, starting with the most current
employment and working in reverse chronological
order (backward) through earlier jobs. p. 1078
Glossary 1105
circulatory ulcer An open wound on the lower legs
and feet caused by decreased blood flow through
arteries or veins. Also known as vascular ulcer.
p. 473
circumcision The surgical removal of foreskin from
the penis. p. 340
cirrhosis Persistent liver disease characterized by
normal liver cells being replaced by scar tissue.
p. 870
civil laws Laws that deal with relationships between
people. p. 140
clean-contaminated wound A wound occurring from
the surgical portal of entry into the urinary, repro-
ductive, or digestive system. p. 460
clean technique See medical asepsis. p. 432
clean wound A wound that is not infected; microbes
have not entered the wound. p. 463
client A general term for any person receiving care or
support services in a community setting: hospital
patients, facility residents, and clients in the com-
munity. p. 9
clinical depression See major depressive disorder.
p. 781
closed questions Questions that are structured so
that the response can be restricted to one word
such as yes or no or to a few words. p. 74
closed wound A wound in which tissues are injured
but skin is not broken. p. 463
Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) A bacterium that
causes diarrhea and colitis. It is the most common
cause of infectious diarrhea in hospitalized people
in the industrialized world and one of the most
common infections in hospitals and long-term care
facilities. p. 425
cognitive disability See intellectual disability. p. 889
cognitive function Brain function involving the
memory, thinking, reasoning, understanding, judge-
ment, and behaviour functions of the brain. p. 805
cognitive health Well-being in the intellectual dimen-
sion, achieved through an active, creative mind.
p. 51
cognitive impairment The loss of the ability to remem-
ber, think, reason, understand, or live independ-
ently. p. 805
cold pack A commercial or homemade cold applica-
tion; may be moist or dry. p. 1026
colitis Inflammation of the colon. p. 870
colonize To establish a habitat; for example, bacteria
grow on or in specific regions of the body and
survive as part of that person’s normal flora. p. 425
1106 Glossary
colostomy An artificial opening (stomy) between the
colon (colo) and the abdominal wall. p. 739
combining vowel A vowel added between two roots
or between a root and a suffix to make pronuncia-
tion easier. p. 193
communicable disease A disease caused by
microbes (disease-causing organisms) that spreads
easily. Also known as contagious disease. p. 426
communicable phase The period when a person is
infectious and can spread pathogens to others.
p. 427
community-based services Health care and support
services provided in a community setting, not in a
facility setting. p. 36
community-based settings Places within the com-
munity that provide health care and support servi-
ces. p. 36
community day program A daytime community-
based program for people with physical or mental
health issues or older adults who need assistance.
Also known as adult day program or adult day
centre. p. 40
compassion Awareness of the misfortune and
suffering of another person and the desire to take
action to reduce or eliminate the problem. p. 165
compassionate care Care that demonstrates concern
for the dignity, independence, preferences, privacy,
and safety (DIPPS) of clients and their families at
all times. Also known as person-centred care.
p. 16
competence The ability to do a job well. p. 165
complex continuing care Comprehensive inpatient
care provided to people who are recovering
from surgery, injury, an acute illness, or an exacer-
bation of a disease process. Also known as sub-
acute care, convalescent care, or transitional care.
p. 35
comprehensiveness A principle of the Canada Health
Act that states that all necessary health services,
including hospitalization and access to physicians
and surgical dentists, must be insured. p. 24
compress A soft pad that is moistened and applied
over a body area. p. 1017
compression bandage A bandage designed to
provide pressure to a particular area. Also known as
a tensor bandage. p. 1026
compulsion The uncontrollable urge to perform an
act. p. 786
condom catheter A sheath that slides over the penis;
tubing connects the catheter and drainage bag.
p. 713
conduct Personal behaviour. p. 119
conduct disorder A disorder that causes the person
to repeatedly violate the personal or property rights
of others and the basic expectations of society.
p. 794
condyloid joint A joint formed when the oval articular
surface of one bone fits into the oval depression
of the second articulating bone, such as at the
wrist and the knuckles at the base of the fingers.
p. 280
confidentiality Respecting, guarding, and using dis-
cretion in regard to personal and private information
about another person. p. 14
conflict A clash between opposing interests and
ideas. p. 103
confusion See disorientation. p. 805
congenital Present at birth. p. 330
congestive heart failure (CHF) An abnormal condi-
tion that occurs when the heart cannot pump blood
normally. Blood backs up and causes an abnormal
amount (congestion) of fluid in the tissues. Also
known as heart failure. p. 866
conjunctivitis An inflammation of the clear membrane
that covers the white part of the eye and lines the
inner surface of the eyelids. The nonmedical term is
pink eye. p. 362
consent Agreement or approval—for example, to
medical treatment, health care, or personal care ser-
vices. p. 137
constipation A condition in which bowel movements
are less frequent than usual; the stool is hard, dry,
and difficult to pass. p. 733
constrict To squeeze or make narrow. p. 1026
contagious disease See communicable disease.
p. 426
contaminated wound A wound with a high risk for
infection; microbes have entered the wound. p. 463
contamination The process of being exposed to
microorganisms, including pathogens. p. 435
contracture The lack of joint mobility caused by
abnormal shortening of a muscle. p. 535
controlled acts Tasks that must be performed only by
those authorized to perform them. Controlled acts
are considered to be harmful if performed by unquali-
fied individuals. p. 92
contusion A closed wound caused by a blow to the
body. Also known as a bruise. p. 463
coronary artery disease (CAD) A condition of
impaired cardiac pumping due to narrowed or
blocked arteries. p. 683

cover letter See letter of application. p. 1083
cradle cap (seborrheic dermatitis) A skin condition in
which yellowish, scaly, or crusty patches, made up
largely of oil and dead skin cells, appear on the
scalp. p. 328
crime A violation of criminal law. p. 140
criminal laws Laws concerned with offences against
the public and against society in general. p. 140
critical thinking The ability to think clearly and logic-
ally, using reflection and reason, based on know-
ledge obtained from experience, observation, or
education. p. 11
Crohn’s disease A persistent, inflammatory bowel
disease of unknown origin, usually affecting the
ileum, the colon, or another part of the gastro-
intestinal (GI) tract. p. 870
cross-contamination The spread of pathogens from
one source to another. p. 582
cueing Providing of prompts in order to assist a client
to complete a task. This prompting can be in the
form of hand gestures, facial expressions, or verbal
phrases. p. 818
cultural competence The ability to interact effectively
with people from different cultures or socioeconomic
backgrounds. p. 153
cultural conflict Negative feelings and conduct that
can result when people from one culture try to
impose their own set of values and behaviours on
people from another culture. p. 152
culture The characteristics of a group of people,
including the language, values, beliefs, customs,
habits, ways of life, rules for behaviour, music, and
traditions. p. 149
curriculum vitae (CV) A résumé that is lengthened to
include a description of achievements, such as
teaching experience, research, awards, publica-
tions, and degrees. p. 1077
cyanosis An abnormal condition, evidenced by bluish
colour in the skin, lips, mucous membranes, and nail
beds caused by a lack of oxygenated blood in the
visible tissues. p. 933
cyst An abnormal, closed sac, which may contain air,
fluids, or semi-solid material. p. 848
cystitis A bladder infection. p. 872
daily value (DV) How a serving fits into the daily diet
of an adult; expressed as a percentage based on
recommended daily intake. p. 579
dandruff Excessive amount of dry, white flakes that
appear on the scalp, in the hair, or on the shoulders.
p. 652
Glossary 1107
deconditioning The loss of muscle size, strength, and
function (muscle atrophy) that results from immobil-
ity and inactivity. p. 534
decubitus ulcer See pressure ulcer. p. 465
deep Away from the surface or further into the body.
p. 273
defamation The injuring of the name and reputation
of a person by making false statements to a third
person. p. 143
defecation The process of excreting feces from
the rectum through the anus; bowel movement.
p. 731
defence mechanisms A subconscious practice
intended to either delay—or avoid altogether—
uncomfortable feelings such as anxiety, guilt, stress,
or embarrassment. These practices include denial,
displacement, fantasizing, projection, rational-
ization, regression, repression, suppression,
passive-aggressiveness, and submissiveness.
p. 78
dehiscence The separation of wound layers along a
surgical suture line. p. 476
dehydration The excessive loss of water from body
tissues. p. 593
delegation A process by which a nurse authorizes
another health care provider to perform certain
tasks, including controlled acts. p. 92
delirium A state of temporary mental disorientation
that can occur suddenly. p. 806
delusion A fixed, false belief that is not based on
reality. p. 778
dementia A general term that describes the progres-
sive loss of brain functions, which include cogni-
tive and social functions. It is not a single disease
but a group of illnesses that involve memory,
behaviour, learning, and communication. Dementia
is categorized as being either a mild or major
neuro-cognitive disorder, depending on its symp-
toms. p. 808
denial An unwillingness to accept the truth or a certain
reality. p. 78
dependence The state of relying on others for support;
being unable to manage without help. p. 166
depressive disorders A group of disorders in which
the client has sad, empty, or irritable moods accom-
panied by physical and thought changes that are
severe enough to affect the client’s ability to func-
tion. p. 781
dermatitis Inflammation of the skin caused by direct
contact with an irritating or allergy-causing sub-
stance. p. 845
1108 Glossary
determinants of health The most important factors—
such as lifestyle, environment, human biology, and
health services—that determine health status in an
individual or a community. p. 54
detoxification A process of allowing an abused sub-
stance to exit the body naturally or of removing the
substance from the body medically; the person
being detoxified may go into drug withdrawal.
p. 796
development The maturation toward adulthood;
usually characterized by physical changes and
increased ability and functionality. p. 305
developmental disability A permanent disability that
a person is born with or that begins before 18 years
of age. p. 887
developmental task An activity that must be mas-
tered during a stage of development. p. 305
diabetes A metabolic disorder characterized by
hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels) and resulting
from low levels of insulin or a resistance to insulin’s
effect at a cellular level. p. 894
diabetic retinopathy A disorder (pathy) caused by
diabetes, in which the blood vessels in the retina are
damaged. p. 920
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disor-
ders, fifth edition (DSM-5) A manual published by
the American Psychiatric Association that is used
throughout North America to classify mental health
disorders. p. 772
diarrhea The frequent passage of liquid stools. p. 734
diastole The period of heart muscle relaxation. p. 241
diastolic pressure The pressure in the arteries when
the heart is at rest. p. 241
digestion The process of physically and chemically
breaking down food into nutrients that can be
absorbed for use by the cells. p. 292
dignity The state of feeling worthy, valued, and
respected. p. 16
dilate To expand or open wider. p. 1016
dimensions of health All aspects of a person’s health:
physical, emotional, social, spiritual, cognitive. Hol-
istic health considers all of these aspects. p. 49
diplegia Loss of ability to move (plegia) corresponding
parts on both (di) sides of the body; both arms or
both legs are affected. p. 893
DIPPS An acronym for the five principles of compas-
sionate care (also known as person-centred care):
dignity, independence, preferences, privacy, and
safety. p. 16
dirty wound See infected wound. p. 463
disability The loss of physical or mental function.
p. 56
discharge Official departure of a client from a hospital
or other health care facility. p. 1038
discretion The use of responsible judgement to avoid
causing distress or embarrassment to a person.
p. 14
discrimination The unfair treatment of people on
the basis of such aspects as their physical charac-
teristics, health history, or group membership.
p. 60
disease prevention Strategies that prevent the occur-
rence of disease or injury. p. 28
disinfection The process of destroying pathogens.
p. 441
disorientation Mental confusion, or an impaired ability
to recall people, time, or places as a result of (or any
combination of) physiological changes to the brain,
disease process, or substance-induced factors.
Also known as confusion. p. 805
displacement A transfer of feelings (usually of
anger) onto another person or item instead of
onto the person who is the source of the anger.
p. 78
disruptive, impulse-control, and conduct disor-
der Disorders in which the client displays difficult,
disruptive, aggressive, or antisocial behaviours.
p. 793
distal The part farthest from the centre or from the
point of attachment. p. 195
distilled water Sterile and pure water that has
been boiled and allowed to cool and condense.
p. 943
distribution The path the drug takes from the blood-
stream to the body tissues of the intended site of
action. p. 987
diversity The state of different individuals and cultures
coexisting. p. 148
diverticulosis The condition (osis) of having small
pouches in the colon that bulge outward (diverticu-
lum). p. 871
documentation Record of the care you have given the
client and the observations you have made during
care. Also called charting. p. 215
dorsal See posterior. p. 196
dorsiflexion Bending the toes and foot up at the
ankle. p. 539
dosette Container that stores medications in separate
compartments arranged by day or hour. Also known
as pillbox. p. 986

Down syndrome (DS) A congenital disorder caused
by an extra chromosome; DS results in varying
degrees of intellectual disability. p. 892
droplet A drop of liquid. p. 431
drug antagonism An unusually weak drug effect that
occurs when two or more drugs are taken at the
same time. p. 987
drug interaction The combined action that a medica-
tion and another substance (such as another drug,
alcohol, or food) has on the body. p. 987
drug synergism An unusually strong drug effect that
occurs when taking two or more drugs at the same
time. p. 987
drug tolerance The state at which the body gets
accustomed to a substance, causing the individual
to need larger and larger amounts of it to experience
the same effect. p. 795
drug withdrawal A physical reaction that occurs
when a person abusing a substance stops taking it.
p. 795
dysarthria Difficulty (dys) speaking clearly (arthria),
caused by weakness or paralysis in the muscles
used for speech. p. 904
dysphagia Difficulty (dys) swallowing (phagia). p. 377
dyspnea Difficult, laboured, or painful breathing.
p. 377
dysrhythmia An irregular rhythm of the pulse; beats
may be unevenly spaced or skipped. p. 237
dysuria Painful or difficult (dys) urination (uria). p. 692
ear infection See otitis media. p. 364
early morning care See AM care. p. 613
eczema A persistent inflammatory condition of the
skin that can include recurring skin rashes. p. 845
edema Swelling in tissues caused by an accumulation
of fluid. p. 473
elective surgery Surgery that is scheduled but non-
urgent. p. 1043
electronic communication The transfer of informa-
tion through electronic media. p. 69
electronic privacy A person’s right not to have his
image, words, or character description or comments
about his reputation made public by electronic
means. p. 136
embolus An air bubble, blood clot (thrombus), or fat
clot that travels through the vascular system until it
lodges in a distant vessel. p. 1051
emergency surgery Surgery that must be done
immediately to save a client’s life or prevent perma-
nent disability. p. 1043
Glossary 1109
emotional abuse Words or actions that cause mental
harm, especially on a person’s self-esteem. Also
known as psychological abuse. p. 254
emotional health Well-being in the emotional dimen-
sion, achieved when people feel good about them-
selves. p. 50
emotional illness See mental health disorder.
p. 770
emotional neglect Failure to meet a person’s need to
feel loved, wanted, safe, and worthy. p. 260
emotional pressure The feeling of being pushed
beyond one’s limits or abilities. p. 102
empathetic listening A nonjudgemental technique
that requires the listener to be attentive to the send-
er’s feelings. p. 74
empathy The ability to recognize, perceive, and
have an understanding of another person’s emo-
tions by seeing things from his or her viewpoint.
p. 3
end-of-life care See palliative care. p. 35
endospore The protective shell that surrounds
dormant bacteria and viruses, which protects them
from external harm. p. 423
enema The introduction of fluid into the rectum and
lower colon. p. 736
engorged breasts Breasts that are overfilled with
milk, which makes them swollen, hard, and painful.
p. 324
enteral nutrition The giving of nutrients by way of the
intestine (enteral). p. 600
environmental health According to the WHO, “all the
physical, chemical, and biological factors external
to a person and all the related factors impacting
behaviours.” p. 55
environmental restraints Barriers, furniture, or
devices that prevent a client from having free move-
ment. p. 396
epilepsy A group of neurological disorders character-
ized by recurrent episodes of convulsive seizures,
sensory disturbances, abnormal behaviour, loss
of consciousness, or some or all of the above.
p. 857
episiotomy An incision made in the perineum to
increase the size of the vaginal opening for the deliv-
ery of the baby. p. 323
equitable Fair, reasonable, and just. p. 55
estate trustee The person chosen by the now-
deceased person to deal with his or her posses-
sions, as stated in the will. Also known as guardian
of property or executor, executrix. p. 139
1110 Glossary
ethical dilemma An apparent conflict between oppos-
ing moral choices; choosing one would result in
going against another moral choice. p. 121
ethics The rules of conduct that guide us when decid-
ing what is right and what is wrong, and what is
good and what is bad. p. 118
ethnic identity The ethnic background a person feels
a part of, based usually on similar language and
customs. p. 149
ethnicity The sharing of a common history, language,
geography, national origin, religion, or identity.
p. 149
ethnocentrism The belief that one’s own culture or
ethnic group is better or more important than others’.
p. 149
euphoria An exaggerated or abnormal expression of
physical or emotional well-being that is not based
on reality or truth. p. 807
eupnea Normal breathing. p. 931
eustachian tube The tiny drainage pipe in the middle
ear. p. 364
eustress A type of stressor that is healthy and gives
one a feeling of fulfillment or other positive feelings.
p. 101
evaluation Assessing and measuring; a step in the
care-planning process. p. 205
evening care See HS care. p. 613
evisceration Separation of the wound accompanied
by protrusion of abdominal organs. p. 476
excretion Exiting from the body, especially through
the stool, urine, lungs, or skin. p. 987
executor, executrix See estate trustee. p. 140
expressive aphasia Difficulty speaking or writing.
p. 903
expressive–receptive aphasia Difficulty speaking
and understanding language. Also known as global
aphasia. p. 904
extension Straightening of a body part. p. 539
external rotation Turning of the joint outward. p. 539
face mask A mask used to deliver oxygen that covers
the client’s nose and mouth. p. 941
facility-based settings Workplaces that provide
clients with accommodations, health care, and
support services. p. 37
failure to thrive A term to describe infants, babies, or
children who are below the norms for body weight,
growth, or cognitive development. p. 260
false imprisonment Unlawful restraint or restrictions
of a person’s freedom of movement. p. 142
family A biological, legal, or social network of
people who provide support for one another.
p. 168
family conference A meeting attended by the
health care team and family members to discuss
the client’s care. Also called care conference.
p. 90
fan-fold To fold a sheet back and forth, in a form that
resembles a fan. p. 499
fantasizing Daydreaming as an escape instead of
dealing with reality. p. 79
febrile respiratory illness (FRI) A term used to
describe a wide range of respiratory infections,
such as colds, influenza, influenza-like illness
(ILI), and pneumonia, spread through droplets.
p. 431
fecal impaction The prolonged retention and accumu-
lation of feces in the rectum. p. 734
fecal incontinence The inability to control the passage
of feces and gas through the anus. Also known as
anal incontinence. p. 735
feces The semi-solid mass of waste products in the
colon. p. 731
feeding and eating disorders Altered body image
perceptions that lead to disturbances in eating
behaviours and an abnormal concern with body
weight and shape. p. 787
fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) A group of
physical and mental abnormalities that occur in chil-
dren as a result of alcohol consumption by the
mother during pregnancy. p. 895
fibromyalgia A condition associated with aching,
stiffness, and fatigue in muscles, ligaments, and
tendons. p. 857
financial abuse The misuse of a person’s money or
property. p. 254
fitted sheet A sheet (usually with elastic edges)
tailored to fit a particular size of mattress. p. 758
flatulence The excessive formation of gas in the
stomach and intestines. p. 735
flatus Gas or air from the stomach or intestines passed
through the anus. p. 735
flexion Bending of a body part. p. 539
flowmeter A device that regulates the flow of oxygen
to the nasal cannula or face mask. p. 940
flow rate The volume of a substance, such as oxygen
or fluids, administered over a prescribed period.
p. 942
focusing Limiting the conversation to a certain topic.
p. 76

Foley catheter See in-dwelling catheter. p. 702
fomite Any nonliving object that is capable of carrying
infectious organisms and that may serve as a mode
of transmission. p. 430
foodborne illness An illness transmitted by contamin-
ated food products. p. 582
footdrop The foot falls down at the ankle (permanent
plantar flexion). p. 536
Fowler’s position A semi-sitting to upright sitting
position in bed. p. 510
fracture A broken bone. p. 850
fracture pan A small, thin, rimmed bedpan that is
about 1 cm deep at one end. Also called a slipper
pan. p. 691
fragile X syndrome The most common form of inher-
ited developmental disorder. p. 890
friction Resistance that skin encounters when it rubs
against another surface such as clothing, bedding,
or another fold of skin. p. 463
frostbite A medical condition in which skin and other
tissues are damaged by extreme cold. p. 1026
full-thickness wound A wound in which the dermis,
epidermis, and subcutaneous tissue are penetrated;
muscle and bone may be involved. p. 463
functional incontinence Urinary incontinence caused
by physical conditions or environmental barriers that
prevent the client from reaching the toilet in time.
p. 700
functional resumé A resumé that highlights skills or
functions and briefly lists positions held. p. 1080
fungi Microbes that live only on organic matter such
as plants and animals. p. 423
furuncle A skin disorder caused by the infection of a
hair follicle. Also called a boil. p. 848
gangrene A condition in which tissue dies and then
decays. p. 473
gastroenteritis More commonly known as “stomach
flu,” this illness causes vomiting and diarrhea and
can lead to dehydration, particularly in very young
children and frail older adults. p. 364
gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) A disor-
der of the digestive system that causes heartburn.
p. 869
gastro-jejunostomy tube A combination device that
includes access to both the stomach and the
jejunum (the middle part of the small intestine). It is
also known as a GJ-tube. p. 600
gastrostomy tube A tube inserted through an opening
(stomy) into the stomach (gastro). It is also known
as a G-tube. p. 600
Glossary 1111
gavage Tube feeding. p. 600
gel pack A commercially produced hot-and-cold pack
designed to keep its temperature over a period.
p. 1022
gender The roles, personality traits, attitudes, behav-
iours, values, and relative power and influence
assigned to the sexes by society. p. 56
general anaesthesia Unconsciousness and the loss
of feeling or sensation produced by a medication.
p. 1049
generic name of a drug The name given to a drug
approved by Health Canada. It is also known as the
“official name” of a drug. p. 992
genetic endowment The genetic makeup that predis-
poses an individual to adopt certain behaviours that
affect health status. p. 56
Gentle Persuasive Approaches (GPA) A program
designed to train direct care providers in techniques
to handle and reduce difficult responsive behaviours
(e.g., grabbing, biting, and hitting) that are associ-
ated with dementias such as Alzheimer’s disease to
prepare the care providers for vulnerable care situa-
tions and for avoiding potential workplace injury.
p. 829
geriatrics The branch of medicine that provides care
for older adults. p. 369
gerontology The study of the aging process. p. 369
glaucoma An eye disease that causes pressure within
the eye and vision loss. p. 921
gliding joint A joint formed by the interaction of the
flat surfaces of the articulating bones, allowing for
limited but complex gliding movements, such as
in the wrist, ankle joints, and the vertebral column.
p. 280
global aphasia See expressive–receptive aphasia.
p. 904
glucosuria Glucose, a type of sugar (glucos) in the
urine (uria). p. 720
gluten A protein that has come from wheat or related
grains, such as barley, oats, rye, triticale, Kamut, or
spelt. p. 585
gout A disease caused by the accumulation of
uric acid in the cartilage of a joint, especially in
the tendons. Also called metabolic arthritis.
p. 857
grief The process of moving from deep sorrow caused
by loss toward healing and recovery. p. 1061
grief counselling A support for people coping with
the difficulties associated with the loss of a loved
one. p. 1061
1112 Glossary
group home A residential facility in which a small
number of people with physical or mental disabilities
live together and are provided with supervision,
care, and support services. p. 39
growth Increase in physical size and weight that
occurs in a slow and steady manner. p. 305
guardian of property See estate trustee. p. 139
hallucination Seeing, smelling, hearing, tasting, or
feeling something that is not real. p. 778
hand hygiene The process of cleaning hands.
p. 435
handwashing The process of removing soil, dead skin
cells, and excess microbes from the hands, using
soap, friction, and running water. It is one form of
hand hygiene. p. 435
harassment Troubling, tormenting, offending, or
worrying a person through one’s behaviour or com-
ments. p. 143
hazardous material Any substance that presents a
physical hazard or a health hazard in the workplace.
p. 411
health A state of well-being in all dimensions of one’s
life. p. 49
health care–associated infection (HAI) An infection
acquired while a person is a patient, client, or resi-
dent in a health care facility or while receiving care
from a health care provider. This term has replaced
the term nosocomial infection. p. 427
health care ethics The philosophical study of what is
morally right and wrong when providing health care
services. p. 121
health promotion A strategy for improving the
population’s health by providing the necessary
information and tools for individuals, groups, and
communities to make informed decisions that
promote health and wellness. p. 28
heart attack See myocardial infarction. p. 865
hematoma The collection of blood under skin and
tissues. p. 476
hematuria Blood (hemat) in the urine (uria). p. 692
hemiplegia Paralysis (plegia) of one side (hemi) of
the body; the arm and leg, body organs, vision, the
tongue, and the swallowing mechanisms on the
affected side can all be compromised. p. 859
hemoglobin The substance in red blood cells that
carries oxygen and gives blood its colour. p. 287
hemoptysis Bloody (hemo) sputum (ptysis, meaning
“to spit”). p. 931
hemorrhage The excessive loss of blood within a
short period. p. 476
hemorrhoids Swollen veins in the anal canal. p. 734
hepatitis Inflammation (itis) of the liver (hepat) that
may be caused by bacterial or viral infection, para-
sitic infestation, alcohol, drugs, toxins, or transfusion
of incompatible (not matching) blood type. p. 870
high Fowler’s position A semi-sitting position in bed;
the head of the bed is elevated 45 to 90 degrees.
p. 510
hinge joints Joints that allow movement in one direc-
tion around a single axis (e.g., elbow joint). p. 279
hirsutism Excessive and increased hair growth.
p. 652
hives See urticaria. p. 845
hoarding Collecting things and putting them away in
a guarded manner. p. 833
holism A concept that considers the whole person;
the whole person has physical, social, emotional,
cognitive, and spiritual dimensions. p. 49
holistic health A state of well-being in all dimensions
of one’s life. p. 49
home care Health care and support services provided
to people in their places of residence. p. 28
home management The cleaning and organizing of a
home. p. 962
homeostasis A steady state or stable internal environ-
ment maintained when all of the organ systems in
the human body work together. p. 275
homophobia Negative attitudes toward or intolerance
of homosexuality or people who are identified or per-
ceived as being lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender,
or questioning their sexuality (LGBTQ). p. 152
hormone A chemical substance produced by the cells
of specialized glands and secreted into the blood-
stream. p. 298
hospice A type of palliative care that provides home,
residential, or inpatient care to a client who has a
terminal diagnosis and is no longer seeking life-
prolonging care. p. 36
hospital A facility for clients with acute illnesses or
injuries who require admission and care on a rela-
tively short-term basis, often not even overnight.
p. 37
HS care Routine care given in a facility at bedtime (HS
stands for “hour of sleep”). Also known as evening
care or PM care. p. 613
humidified oxygen Oxygen that contains water
vapour. p. 943
Huntington’s disease An inherited neurological disor-
der that causes uncontrolled movements, emotional
disturbances, and cognitive losses. p. 861

hyperextension Excessive straightening of a body
part. p. 539
hypertension Persistent blood pressure measure-
ments above the normal systolic (140 mm Hg) or
diastolic (90 mm Hg) pressures. p. 242
hyperthyroidism A condition caused by an overactive
thyroid gland. p. 876
hyperventilation Respirations that are more rapid
(hyper) and deeper than normal. p. 932
hypotension A condition in which the systolic blood
pressure is below 90 mm Hg and the diastolic pres-
sure is below 60 mm Hg. p. 242
hypothyroidism A condition caused by an under-
active thyroid gland. p. 876
hypoventilation Respirations that are slow (hypo),
shallow, and sometimes irregular. p. 932
hypoxia A deficiency (hypo) of oxygen in the cells
(oxia). p. 932
ileal conduit An artificial bladder made out of a section
of the ileum. p. 724
ileostomy An artificial opening (stomy) between the
ileum (small intestine; ileo) and the abdominal wall.
p. 740
illness The loss of physical or mental health. p. 56
immobility An excessive lack of exercise and activity,
which can cause serious health complications,
affecting every system in the body. p. 535
immoral Conflicting with traditionally held moral prin-
ciples; often regarded as indecent or deviant (not
normal). p. 118
immunity Protection against a disease or condition.
p. 300
impetigo A contagious skin disorder caused by bac-
teria. p. 848
implementation Carrying out or performing; a step in
the care-planning process. p. 205
incident report A report submitted whenever an acci-
dent, error, or unexpected problem arises in the
workplace. Also known as an occurrence report.
p. 411
incision An open wound with clean, straight edges;
usually intentionally created with a sharp instrument.
p. 463
incontinence pad A pad placed in the centre of the
bed on top of the bottom sheet to protect the bed-
sheets from body fluids. Also called an absorbent
pad or soaker pad. p. 755
incubation period The time between exposure to a
pathogenic organism and the appearance of signs
and symptoms. p. 427
Glossary 1113
independence The state of not relying on others for
control or authority. p. 166
in-dwelling catheter A tube (plastic, latex, or other
material) that is inserted into the bladder through
the urinary meatus and urethra. A balloon within the
catheter that is inflated after insertion prevents the
catheter from slipping out of the bladder. Also
known as a Foley or retention catheter. p. 702
infancy The first year of life, during which the body
undergoes rapid physical, psychological, and social
growth and development. p. 305
infected wound A wound containing a large amount
of bacteria and showing signs of infection. Also
known as a dirty wound. p. 463
infection A disease state resulting from the invasion
and growth of pathogens in the body. p. 426
infection control Policies and procedures to prevent
the spread of infection within health care settings.
p. 422
inferior Situated below another structure or toward
the lower part of the body. p. 273
infiltration Intravenous fluids’ entering surrounding
tissues. p. 606
influenza (“the flu”) A highly contagious infection of
the respiratory tract by the causative (disease-
causing) virus in airborne droplets. Symptoms
include sore throat, cough, fever, muscular pains,
and weakness. p. 429
informed consent Consent obtained under the legal
condition whereby a person is first given complete,
accurate, and relevant information so as to fully
understand the action or procedure and its potential
implications. p. 137
ingestion The process of taking food and fluids into
the body. p. 570
ingrown hair A hair that curls into the side wall of the
hair follicle or into the skin surface, which causes
the skin to become inflamed. Also known as razor
bumps. p. 661
ingrown nails Toenails that grow inward at the side
of the nail bed. p. 664
inpatient A client who is assigned a bed and is admit-
ted to stay in a facility overnight or longer. p. 41
insomnia A persistent condition in which the person
cannot go to sleep or stay asleep throughout the
night. p. 185
instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) The
complex skills needed to successfully live independ-
ently. p. 4
intake The amount of fluids taken in by the body.
p. 593
1114 Glossary
intellectual disability Impaired ability to learn. Also
known as cognitive disability. p. 889
intentional wound A wound created for treatment.
p. 463
interdependence The state of relying on one another.
p. 166
interdisciplinary team A team of health care provid-
ers from a variety of backgrounds and specialties
who work together to meet the client’s needs. Also
known as a(n) intradisciplinary team, interprofes-
sional team, interprofessional health care team, or
multidisciplinary team. p. 90
internal rotation Turning of the joint inward. p. 539
interpersonal communication The exchange of
information between two people, usually face to
face. p. 68
intervention An action or measure taken by the health
care team to help the client meet a goal in the care
plan. p. 204
intravenous (IV) therapy Fluids given through a
needle or catheter inserted into a vein; also referred
to as IV, IV therapy, and IV infusion. p. 604
intubation The process of inserting an artificial airway.
p. 949
invasion of privacy Violation of a person’s right not
to have his or her name, photograph, private affairs,
health information, or any personal information
made public without consent. p. 142
irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) A disorder of the
bowel characterized by abdominal pain and changes
in bowel habits. p. 870
isolation precautions Guidelines for preventing the
spread of pathogens; include Standard Practices
and Transmission-Based Practices. p. 442
jaundice A yellowing of the skin and the white part
(sclera) of the eyes. p. 331
jejunostomy tube A tube inserted into the intestines
through an opening (stomy) into the middle part of
the small intestine (jejunum). It is also known as a
J-tube. p. 601
justice Fair and equal treatment. p. 123
ketones A by-product of fatty acid metabolism.
p. 721
Kussmaul respiration Deep, rapid respiration char-
acteristic of diabetic acidosis or other conditions
causing acidosis. p. 932
laceration An open wound with torn tissue and jagged
edges. p. 463
lactation The process of producing and secreting milk
from the breast. p. 324
laryngeal mirror An instrument used to examine the
mouth, teeth, and throat. p. 1039
late adulthood Begins approximately at the age of 65
years. This stage is characterized by adjusting to
decreased physical strength and loss of health,
retirement, and reduced income; coping with the
death of a partner; developing new friends and rela-
tionships; and preparing for one’s own death. p. 316
late childhood Ages 9 to 12 years; characterized by
becoming independent of adults; developing and
keeping friendships with peers; understanding the
physical, psychological, and social roles of one’s
identified gender; developing moral and ethical
behaviour; developing greater muscular strength,
coordination, and balance; and learning how to
study. p. 311
lateral The farthest away from the midline of the body.
p. 195
lateral position A side-lying position that uses pillows
to support the back and separate the lower legs.
p. 511
laundry care symbols Symbols on garment tags that
indicate how to launder or care for specific gar-
ments. p. 974
legislation A body of laws that govern the behaviour
of a country’s residents. p. 130
letter of application A letter that is included with a
resumé that summarizes the job applied for and
reasons for applying for it; it can be solicited or
unsolicited. Also called a cover letter. p. 1083
leukocytes White blood cells that are part of the
blood; the cells are part of the immune system that
fight infection. p. 323
LGBTQ An abbreviation that stands for the group of
people who identify themselves as lesbian, gay,
bisexual, transgender, or questioning their sexuality.
p. 152
liable Legally responsible. p. 140
libel The making of false written statements that hurt
the reputation of another person. p. 143
lice Small, insectlike parasites that live on the human
body, most commonly on skin, hair, and the genital
area. p. 652
licensed practical nurse (LPN) A health care provider
licensed and regulated by the province or territory
to carry out nursing techniques and provide client
care. Known as a registered practical nurse (RPN)
in Ontario. p. 13
lift Device used to move—or the action of moving—a
client from one place to another, without the client’s
weight-bearing or assistance. p. 524

line of gravity An imaginary vertical line that extends
from the centre of gravity to the base of support.
p. 493
lithotomy position A back-lying position in which the
hips are brought down to the edge of the examina-
tion table, the knees are flexed, the hips are exter-
nally rotated, and the feet are supported in stirrups.
p. 1040
living will A document that lets the reader know one’s
preferences about care intended to sustain life.
p. 138
local anaesthesia The loss of sensation in a small
area, produced by a medication injected at the
specific site or by a topical application. p. 1049
lochia Postpartum vaginal discharge that begins as a
bloody discharge and then changes in colour and
decreases in amount after 4 to 6 weeks. p. 322
log-rolling Turning the person as a unit, in alignment,
with one motion. p. 498
long-term care Medical, nursing, and support servi-
ces provided over the course of months or years to
people who cannot care for themselves. Also known
as chronic care or continuing care. In some prov-
inces, this is also known as complex continuing
care. p. 35
long-term care facility A facility that provides accom-
modations, 24-hour nursing care, and support ser-
vices to people who cannot care for themselves at
home but who do not need hospital care. Also
known as chronic care facility or continuing care
facility. In some provinces, it is called a complex
care facility or nursing home. p. 37
Lou Gehrig’s disease See amyotrophic lateral
sclerosis. p. 862
low Fowler’s position A semi-sitting position in bed;
the head of the bed is elevated 15 to 30 degrees.
p. 510
lunge (or stride) stance A position whereby you place
one foot in front of the other foot, keeping both feet
about a shoulder-width apart. p. 494
major depressive disorder A state of mind in which
a person has severe feelings of worthlessness, self-
blame, sadness, disappointment, and emptiness
that last for weeks and interfere with the person’s
ability to perform activities of daily living; also known
as clinical depression, although this term is not
used anymore by physicians. p. 781
malignant Describes any condition in the body that, if
untreated, may be a threat to health (e.g., malignant
hypertension). Specifically, it describes a tumour
that invades and destroys other cells or tissues. Also
known as cancerous. p. 876
Glossary 1115
manual lift Physically picking up a client who cannot
weight-bear, without the assistance of a mechanical
lift. p. 524
marginalize The act of excluding people who are not
part of the majority culture. p. 56
marginalized Prevented from having any power or
control over one’s life or health care because of lan-
guage, life circumstances, or role in society, resulting
in being shunned from mainstream society. p. 257
mastication The first step of digestion in which food
is bitten, chewed, crushed, and ground by the teeth
and muscles of the jaw. p. 293
mastitis An infection (itis) of the breast (mast). p. 325
mechanical digestion Physically breaking down large
food particles into smaller pieces. p. 293
mechanical lift A device that can elevate and move
the person while in a special body sling. p. 515
mechanical ventilation The use of a ventilator to
move air into and out of the lungs. p. 954
medial The closest to the midline of the body. p. 195
medical asepsis Practices that reduce the number of
pathogens and prevent their spread. Also known as
clean technique. p. 432
medical diagnosis The identification of a disease or
condition by a physician. p. 203
medicare Canada’s national health care insurance
system, which publicly funds the whole cost of med-
ically necessary health services for permanent resi-
dents. p. 21
medication A drug or other substance used to prevent
or treat disease or illness. p. 987
melena Dark, tarry stools containing decomposing
blood. p. 744
menarche The time when menstruation first begins.
p. 312
Ménière’s disease An inner ear disorder that can
affect both hearing and balance. p. 914
menopause The time when menstruation stops. p. 315
menstruation The process in which the lining of the
uterus breaks up and is discharged from the body
through the vagina. p. 298
mental disorder See mental health disorder. p. 770
mental health A state of mind in which a person
copes with and adjusts to the stressors of everyday
living in socially acceptable ways. p. 770
mental health care services Services provided to
individuals and families confronting mental illness or
disorders. Also known as psychiatric care servi-
ces. p. 36
1116 Glossary
mental health disorder A disturbance in a person’s
ability to cope with or adjust to stress, affecting the
person’s thinking, mood, or behaviours and impairing
functioning; also known as mental illness, mental
disorder, emotional illness, or psychiatric disor-
der. p. 770
mental illness See mental health disorder. p. 770
mentor A person who shares her expertise and know-
ledge to create a safe, encouraging learning environ-
ment for the learner. p. 88
metabolism The chemical processes carried out by
the cells of the body that create and use energy and
produce cellular waste products as a result. p. 987
metabolization Chemical reactions that take place to
convert a drug from smaller molecules into waste
products before it can exit the body. p. 299
metastasis The spread of cancer to other parts of the
body. p. 876
metered dose inhaler (MDI) A pressurized canister of
medication that releases a single dose of medication
as a mist. p. 989
methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
A type of multidrug-resistant organism that is resist-
ant to the antibiotic methicillin. p. 425
microbe See microorganism. p. 422
microorganism A form of life (organism) that is so
small (micro) it can be seen only with a microscope.
Also known as a microbe. p. 422
micturition See urination. p. 690
middle adulthood Ages approximately 40 to 65 years.
This stage is characterized by seeing children
growing up and moving away from home, adjusting
to physical changes, developing leisure activities,
and relating to aging parents. p. 315
middle childhood Ages 6 to 8 years; characterized by
developing the social and physical skills needed for
playing games; learning to get along with peers;
learning behaviours and attitudes normative to one’s
gender; learning basic reading, writing, and arith-
metic skills; developing a conscience and morals;
and developing a good feeling and attitude about
oneself. p. 310
midline An imaginary line that divides the body into
right and left sides. p. 273
mildew The black discoloration caused by mould.
p. 972
mobility The ability to move around. p. 384
morals The fundamental principles of behaviour each
person believes to be right or wrong for him- or
herself without concern for legalities or customs.
p. 118
morning care See AM care. p. 613
mould A microscopic fungal parasite. p. 972
multidrug-resistant organism (MRO) A strain of bac-
teria that is very difficult to treat with common anti-
biotics. p. 424
multiple sclerosis (MS) A persistent, slowly progres-
sive disease, in which the body’s immune system
attacks the protective myelin sheaths that surround
the nerve cells of the brain and spinal cord (a
process called demyelination), resulting in damaged
areas that are unable to transmit nerve impulses.
p. 861
muscle atrophy A decrease in size or a wasting away
of muscle. p. 535
myocardial infarction (MI) Death (infarction) of heart
tissue (myocardium) caused by lack of oxygen to the
heart. Also known as heart attack. p. 865
nasal cannula A flexible tube inserted into the nares
of the nose to deliver oxygen. p. 940
nasal speculum An instrument used to examine the
inside of the nose. p. 1039
nasogastric (NG) tube A tube inserted through the
nose (naso) into the stomach (gastro). It is also
known as an NG-tube. p. 600
nasointestinal tube A tube inserted through the nose
(naso) into the small intestine (intestinal). p. 600
necrotic tissue Localized tissue death as a result of
disease or injury. p. 482
need (basic human) Something necessary or desir-
able for maintaining life and psychosocial well-
being. p. 174
negative reinforcement Encouraging a behaviour by
penalizing the person when that behaviour is not
demonstrated. p. 363
neglect The state of being uncared for physically,
emotionally, or psychologically. p. 254
negligence Failure to act in a careful or competent
manner, resulting in harm to a person or damage to
property. p. 140
neuro-cognitive disorder A significant decline in
attention, functioning, learning, memory, language,
deliberate motor movement, and social functioning.
p. 808
newborn A baby, up to 28 days after birth; also called
a neonate. p. 305
nocturia The need to urinate (uria) during the night
(noct). p. 185
no-lift policy Agency regulations that prohibit workers
from manually lifting clients and instruct them to use
a mechanical lifting device instead. p. 494

nonmaleficence The ethical principle of doing no
harm. p. 124
nonpathogen A microbe that does not usually cause
infection or disease and is not harmful to humans.
p. 423
nonspecific immunity The body’s reaction to any-
thing it does not recognize as a normal body sub-
stance. p. 300
nonverbal communication Messages sent without
words. p. 71
normal flora The microorganisms (primarily bacteria
and yeast) that are usually found on the surface of
skin and mucous membranes and in the gastro-
intestinal tract. p. 423
nosocomial infection See health care–associated
infection (HAI). p. 427
nuclear family A family consisting of a father, a
mother, and children. p. 154
nursing diagnosis A statement describing a health
problem that is treated by nursing measures. p. 203
nursing process See care-planning process. p. 202
nutrients Substances that are ingested, digested,
absorbed, and used by the body. p. 571
nutrition Processes involved in the ingestion, diges-
tion, absorption, and use of foods and fluids by the
body. p. 570
oath of confidentiality A pledge that promises that
the signer will respect and guard personal and
private information about a client, family, or agency.
p. 136
obesity Excess fat accumulation that puts a person’s
health at risk. p. 352
objective data See signs. p. 207
observation The active process of using the senses
to obtain information about the client’s current con-
dition. p. 203
obsession A persistent thought or desire. p. 786
obsessive–compulsive and related disorders Mental
health disorders characterized by recurrent obses-
sions and compulsions that interfere with a person’s
daily life and relationships. p. 786
occurrence report See incident report. p. 411
OH&S (occupational health and safety) legisla-
tion Federal and provincial laws designed to protect
employees from injuries and accidents in the work-
place; these laws outline the rights and responsibil-
ities of employers, supervisors, and workers. p. 410
oliguria Scant amount (olig) of urine (uria)—usually
less than 500 mL in 24 hours. p. 692
Glossary 1117
open-ended questions Questions that invite a person
to share thoughts, feelings, or ideas. p. 75
open wound A wound in which skin or the mucous
membrane is broken. p. 463
ophthalmoscope A lighted instrument used to
examine the internal structures of the eye. p. 1039
optimal health State of achievable maximum well-
being in each of the five dimensions: physical, emo-
tional, social, cognitive, and spiritual. p. 52
oral hygiene Measures performed to keep the mouth
and teeth clean; mouth care. p. 613
organism Any single-celled or multicellular living
thing. p. 422
organs Structures made of different tissues that are
arranged to perform a specialized function. p. 275
organ systems Organs that work together to perform
special functions. p. 275
orthopnea Shortness of breath (dyspnea) when lying
in a flat or supine position; ability to breathe com-
fortably (pnea) only when sitting or standing (ortho).
p. 929
orthopneic position Sitting up (ortho) and leaning
over a table to breathe. p. 933
orthostatic hypotension A drop in (hypo) blood pres-
sure when the client stands up (ortho and static).
Also known as postural hypotension. p. 536
orthotic See brace. p. 553
osteoarthritis (OA) A type of arthritis that causes the
cartilage that occupies the joints of the body to wear
away, causing pain in and disfigurement to the
joints. p. 855
osteomyelitis Inflammation or infection of the bone.
p. 852
osteoporosis A bone disorder (osteo) in which the
bone becomes porous and brittle (poros). p. 855
ostomy A surgically created opening that is used to
drain wastes or to feed the client. p. 600
otitis media Infection (itis) of the middle (media) ear
(ot), caused by either a virus or bacteria. Also known
as ear infection. p. 364
otosclerosis A condition (osis) in which hardening
(sclero) of the ossicles in the middle ear (oto) occurs,
interfering with transmission of sound. p. 914
otoscope A lighted instrument used to examine the
external ear and the eardrum (tympanic membrane).
p. 1039
outpatient A client who does not stay overnight in a
facility. p. 41
output The amount of fluids lost by the body. p. 593
1118 Glossary
overflow incontinence The leaking of urine when the
bladder is too full. p. 700
over-the-counter (OTC) medication A medication
that can be bought without a physician’s prescrip-
tion. p. 990
oxygen-conserving devices Devices that help reduce
oxygen wastage. p. 939
palliative care Services for clients (and their families)
living with or dying from a progressive, life-threat-
ening illness. Also known as end-of-life care. p. 35
pandemic An epidemic that spreads quickly over a
large region or even worldwide. p. 429
panic An intense and sudden feeling of fear, anxiety,
terror, or dread for no obvious reason. p. 783
paralysis Complete or partial loss of ability to move a
limb or muscle group. p. 862
paranoia Extreme suspicion about a person or a situ-
ation. p. 778
paraphrasing Restating someone’s message in one’s
own words. p. 74
paraplegia Paralysis (plegia) from the waist down.
p. 862
parasites Organisms that derive nourishment and
protection from other living organisms, known as
hosts. p. 423
Parkinson’s disease Neurological disorder in which
the cells in certain parts of the brain are gradually
destroyed; causes tremors, muscle stiffness, slow
movement, and poor balance. p. 860
partial-thickness wound A wound in which the
dermis and epidermis of the skin are broken. p. 463
passive-aggressiveness The practice of expressing
negative emotions, resentment, or anger toward
others through passive, indirect ways (such as
through procrastination or manipulation) instead of
by verbalizing feelings in an assertive manner.
p. 79
passive immunity A short-lived immunity passed
from mother to fetus through the placenta and from
the mother to the baby through breast milk. p. 300
pathogen A microbe that can cause harm, such as an
infection or a disease. p. 423
patient A person receiving care in a hospital setting.
Also known as a client. p. 9
pediculosis Infestation with lice. p. 652
pediculosis capitis Infestation of the scalp (capitis)
with lice. p. 652
pediculosis corporis Infestation of the body (cor-
poris) with lice. p. 652
pediculosis pubis Infestation of the pubic (pubis) hair
with lice. p. 652
pelvic tilt A standing position whereby the pelvis is
tilted by tightening the stomach muscles and flat-
tening out the small of the back. p. 494
penetrating wound An open wound in which skin and
underlying tissues are pierced. p. 463
percussion hammer An instrument used to tap body
parts to test reflexes. Also known as a reflex
hammer. p. 1039
percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG)
tube A tube inserted into the stomach (gastro)
through a puncture wound (stomy) made through
(per) the skin (cutaneous); a lighted instrument
(scope) allows the physician to see inside the body
cavity or organ (endo). p. 601
perineal care (pericare) Cleansing of the genital and
anal areas. p. 642
peripheral Away from the centre of the body. p. 273
peristalsis The smooth muscle contraction that
involuntarily pushes food forward in the digestive
tract in one direction in a wavelike motion.
p. 293
peri-wash A type of gentle soap for skin. It is used
primarily as a cleanser and deodorizer of the peri-
neal area soiled by urine and feces. p. 480
persistent illness An ongoing illness or disability,
slow or gradual in onset, that may or may not grow
worse over time. Also known as a chronic illness.
p. 35
persistent pain Pain that lasts longer than 6 months;
it may be constant or occur off and on. Also known
as chronic pain. p. 178
personal empowerment Understanding and accepting
that you can make your own healthy lifestyle choices,
free from the influences of others. p. 54
personality disorders A group of disorders involv-
ing rigid and socially unacceptable behaviours.
p. 796
personal protective equipment (PPE) Special cloth-
ing and equipment that act as a barrier between
microbes and a person’s hands, eyes, nose, mouth,
and clothes; includes gloves, gowns, masks, and
eye protection. p. 441
personal space The area immediately around one’s
body. p. 156
phantom limb pain Pain felt in a body part that is no
longer there. p. 179
phlebitis An inflammation of a vein. p. 867

physical abuse The deliberate application of force to
any part of another person’s body, which may result
in a nonaccidental injury and sometimes death.
p. 259
physical health Well-being in the physical dimension,
achieved when the body is strong, fit, and free from
disease. p. 49
physical neglect Failure to adequately meet a
dependant’s need for food, clothing, shelter, cleanli-
ness, medical care, and protection from harm.
p. 260
physical restraints Garments or devices used to
restrict movement of the whole body or parts of the
body. p. 396
picture-frame dressing A type of dressing in which
tape is applied to all four edges to reduce the
likelihood of the dressing wrinkling or falling off.
p. 484
pink eye See conjunctivitis. p. 362
pitting edema A type of edema that is evident by an
impression left in the skin upon compressing the
fingers into the swollen tissues and then removing
the fingers. p. 473
pivot joints Joints that allow turning from side to side.
p. 280
planning Establishing priorities and goals and
developing measures or actions to help the client
meet the goals; a step in the care-planning process.
p. 203
plantar flexion The foot (plantar) is bent (flexion) with
the toes pointed away from the leg. p. 539
PM care See HS care. p. 613
pneumonia Infection of the lung tissue. p. 867
podiatrist A physician who specializes in the
evaluation and treatment of diseases of the foot.
p. 665
pollutant A harmful chemical or substance in air or
water. p. 931
polypharmacy The use of more medications by a
client than is medically required. p. 990
polyuria The production of abnormally large amounts
(poly) of urine (uria). p. 692
portability A principle of the Canada Health Act that
states that residents continue to be entitled to
coverage from their home province even when they
live in a different province or territory or outside the
country. p. 24
portfolio A binder containing the applicant’s certifi-
cates, letters of recommendation, awards, proof of
volunteering, or other pertinent information. p. 1082
Glossary 1119
positive reinforcement Encouraging a behaviour by
rewarding the desired behaviour after it is demon-
strated. p. 363
posterior The back surface of the body—often used
to indicate the position of one structure to another.
Also called dorsal. p. 196
postmortem care Care of the body after (post) death
(mortem). p. 1070
postoperative After surgery. p. 1049
postpartum After (post) childbirth (partum). p. 322
postpartum blues Feelings of sadness or mild depres-
sion in the mother during the first 2 weeks after
childbirth; baby blues. p. 325
postpartum depression Major depression in the
mother at any point during the first year after child-
birth. p. 326
postpartum psychosis The most severe form of post-
partum depression; the mother may experience
delusions, hallucinations, and suicidal thoughts.
p. 326
postural hypotension See orthostatic hypotension.
p. 536
posture See body alignment. p. 493
power of attorney See substitute decision maker
for health care. p. 138
prefix A word element placed at the beginning
of a word to change the meaning of the word.
p. 191
prejudice An attitude that forms an opinion about a
person based on his or her membership in a group.
p. 150
preoperative Before surgery. p. 1045
presbycusis The gradual hearing (cusis) loss associ-
ated with aging (presby). p. 914
presbyopia The gradual inability to focus (opia) on
close objects; a condition associated with aging
(presby). p. 921
preschool Ages 3 to 5 years; characterized by gaining
an increasing ability to communicate and under-
stand others, becoming able to perform self-care
activities, learning the differences between the
genders, learning to distinguish right from wrong,
learning to play with others, and developing family
relationships. p. 308
prescription (Rx) medication A medication that is
prescribed by a physician and dispensed by a phar-
macist. p. 991
pressure points Bony prominences that bear the
weight of the body in certain positions and may lead
to pressure ulcers. p. 465
1120 Glossary
pressure sore See pressure ulcer. p. 465
pressure ulcer Any injury caused by unrelieved pres-
sure. Also known as decubitus ulcer, bedsore, or
pressure sore. p. 465
primary caregiver A person—usually a family member
or close friend—who assumes the responsibilities of
caring for a dependent person, usually in the per-
son’s home. p. 168
primary care nurse A primary care nurse is respon-
sible for the ongoing management of the health of
a client. Duties include liaising with other health care
team members, the client, and her or his family.
p. 13
primary dementia Dementia that does not result from
any other disease. p. 810
primary health care delivery The first point of contact
people have with the health care system. It could be
through a doctor, a nurse, or another health care
provider or perhaps through phone- or computer-
based services. p. 25
primary prevention strategies Strategies that are
aimed at preventing a disease or illness by reducing
its risk factors. p. 56
professional boundaries Appropriate limitations on
behaviour, meant to protect the vulnerable client
from the caregiver who has access to private know-
ledge about him or her. p. 163
professionalism An approach to work that demon-
strates respect for others, commitment, compe-
tence, and appropriate behaviour. p. 14
prognosis The expected course of recovery, which
may range from full recovery to death, based on the
usual outcome of the illness. p. 57
projection Blaming someone else for one’s own
behaviour. p. 79
pronation Turning downward. p. 539
prone position A front-lying position on the abdomen,
with the head turned to one side. p. 512
prostheses (singular, prosthesis) Artificial replace-
ments for missing body parts. p. 561
proximal Nearest to the trunk of the body or the point
of origin. p. 196
proxy See substitute decision maker for health
care. p. 138
pseudo-dementia False (pseudo) dementia. Pseudo-
dementia occurs when severe depression causes
cognitive changes that mimic dementia. p. 814
psoriasis A persistent skin disorder that affects the
skin and joints. It commonly causes red scaly
patches to appear on the skin. p. 848
psychiatric care services See mental health care
services. p. 36
psychiatric disorder See mental health disorder.
p. 770
psychological abuse See emotional abuse. p. 254
psychosis A mental state in which a person’s percep-
tion of reality is impaired. p. 778
psychosocial health Well-being in the social, emo-
tional, intellectual, and spiritual dimensions of one’s
life. p. 173
psychotherapy A form of therapy in which a client
explores thoughts, feelings, and behaviours with
help and guidance from a mental health specialist.
p. 774
puberty The period when the reproductive organs
begin to function and secondary sex characteristics
appear. p. 312
public administration A principle of the Canada
Health Act that states that provincial health insur-
ance must be administered by a public authority on
a nonprofit basis. p. 24
pulse The beat of the heart felt at an artery as a wave
of blood passes through the artery. p. 236
pulse oximeter A device that measures both a client’s
pulse rate and the oxygen level in the blood. p. 239
pulse rate The number of heartbeats or pulses felt in
1 minute. p. 236
puncture wound An open wound made by a sharp
object; entry into skin and underlying tissues may
be intentional or unintentional. p. 463
purulent drainage Thick drainage from a wound or
body orifice, which may have a foul odour; purulent
drainage is yellow, green, or brown and may indi-
cate an infection. p. 478
pyelonephritis Inflammation of the kidney and renal
pelvis because of bacterial infection. p. 872
quadriplegia Paralysis (plegia) of all four (quad)
limbs and the trunk; paralysis from the neck down.
p. 862
racism Feelings of superiority over, and intolerance or
prejudice toward, a person or group of people who
may have different physical appearances or cultural
practices. p. 149
radiating pain Pain that is felt not just at the site of
tissue damage but extends to nearby areas. p. 178
range of motion (ROM) Moving a joint to the extent
possible without causing pain. p. 538
rationalization Justifying a behaviour or action by
explaining it as being less harmful or hurtful than it
really is. p. 79

razor bumps See ingrown hair. p. 661
reactive depression A term that some health care
providers use to describe normal reactions, such as
feelings of loss and sadness in response to what a
person has just experienced. p. 781
receptive aphasia Difficulty understanding language.
p. 903
record See chart. p. 210
reference A person who can speak to a potential
employer about the applicant’s skills, abilities, and
personal qualities. p. 1083
referred pain Pain that is felt in a part of the body
separate from the source of the pain. p. 178
reflective practice review A review and self-evalua-
tion of care provided with the goal of identifying
ways to improve clinical performance and care-
giving. p. 11
reflex An involuntary movement in response to a
stimulus. p. 306
reflex hammer See percussion hammer. p. 1039
reflex incontinence The loss of urine at predictable
intervals. p. 700
regional anaesthesia The loss of sensation or feeling
in a large area of the body, produced by the injection
of a medication. p. 1049
registered nurse (RN) A health care provider who is
licensed and regulated by the province or territory
to maintain overall responsibility for the planning
and provision of client care. p. 11
registered practical nurse (RPN) See licensed prac-
tical nurse. p. 13
registered psychiatric nurse (RPN) A nurse who is
educated and registered in his or her own province
to provide care specifically to individuals whose
primary needs relate to mental, emotional, and
developmental health. p. 13
regression A return to an earlier developmental stage
as a way to escape from stress. p. 79
regulations Detailed rules that implement the require-
ments of a legislative act. p. 131
regurgitation The backward flow of food from the
stomach into the mouth. p. 603
rehabilitation The process of restoring a person to
the highest possible level of functioning through
the use of therapy, exercise, or other methods.
p. 10
rehabilitation services Methods, therapies, and edu-
cational programs used to restore or improve
the client’s independence and functional abilities.
p. 35
Glossary 1121
relationship The connection between two or more
people, shaped by the roles, feelings, and inter-
actions of those involved. p. 163
remission A period when the signs and symptoms of
a disease lessen or disappear. p. 779
renal calculi Kidney (renal) stones (calculi). p. 872
repression The involuntary action of blocking painful
memories from the conscious mind. p. 79
reservoir The environment in which microbes live and
grow; host. p. 423
resident A person living in a residential facility (often
called a long-term care facility). p. 9
residential facility A facility that provides living
accommodations and services; includes assisted-
living facilities, long-term care facilities, group
homes, and retirement residences. p. 9
respect Acceptance and regard for another person.
p. 165
respiration The act of breathing air into (inhalation)
and out of (exhalation) the lungs. p. 240
respiratory arrest Stoppage of breathing. p. 930
respiratory depression Slow, weak respirations at a
rate of fewer than 12 per minute; respirations are not
deep enough to bring enough air into the lungs.
p. 930
respite care Temporary care of a person who requires
a high level of support, care, and supervision; respite
care gives caregivers a break from their duties.
p. 35
restorative care Care that is aimed at re-establishing
a client’s sense of independence to its greatest
potential. p. 35
restraint Any device, garment, barrier, furniture, or
medication that limits or restricts freedom of move-
ment or access to one’s own body. p. 388
resumé A concise one- to two-page summary of
experience, education, work-related skills, and per-
sonal qualities. p. 1077
retention catheter See in-dwelling catheter. p. 702
retinal detachment The separation of the retina from
its supporting tissue. p. 920
retirement home A facility in which older adults who
are independently mobile can live independently but
receive hospitality services such as meals and house-
keeping services (also known as an assisted-living
facility or supportive housing facility). p. 36
Reye’s syndrome A rare but potentially fatal disease
causing inflammation of the brain, which can occur
during the recovery stage of flu or chicken pox. It
has been seen in children who take Aspirin. p. 358
1122 Glossary
RICE An acronym for “Rest, Ice, Compression, and
Elevate” as a method of treating recent injuries.
p. 1026
right Something to which a person is justly entitled.
p. 130
rigor mortis The stiffness or rigidity (rigor) of skeletal
muscles that occurs after death (mortis). p. 1071
root A word element containing the basic meaning of
the word. p. 193
rotation Turning of the joint. p. 539
route How a medication enters and is absorbed by
the body. p. 987
Routine Practices See Standard Practices. p. 444
saddle joint Joints that allow for a wide range of
motion between two articulating saddle-shaped
bones, such as at the base of the thumb. p. 280
same-sex family A family in which both adults who
live together in a loving, intimate relationship are of
the same gender. p. 154
sanguineous drainage Bloody drainage. p. 478
scabies A highly contagious skin infection caused by
a mite. p. 845
schizophrenia spectrum disorders An extremely
complex group of mental health disorders charac-
terized by delusions, hallucinations, disturbances in
thinking, and withdrawal from social activity. p. 778
scleroderma A progressive autoimmune disease that
involves the hardening (sclero) of the skin (derma)
and connective tissue throughout the body. p. 849
scope of practice The legal limits and extent of a
health care worker’s role. Scope of practice in a
health care field varies from province to province
and employer to employer. p. 11
seborrheic keratosis A noncancerous skin growth
that is common in older adults. p. 849
secondary dementia Dementia that occurs as a result
of a physical disease, ingestion of damaging sub-
stances, or injury. p. 810
secondary health care delivery An intermediate level
of health care that includes diagnosis and treatment.
It is performed in a hospital that has specialized
equipment and laboratory facilities. p. 25
seizure Brief disturbance in the brain’s normal elec-
trical function; affects awareness, movement, and
sensation. p. 894
self-actualization Realizing one’s full potential. p. 176
self-awareness Understanding of one’s own feelings,
moods, attitudes, preferences, biases, qualities, and
limitations. p. 166
self-determination See autonomy. p. 123
self-esteem Thinking well of oneself and being well
thought of by others. p. 167
semi-Fowler’s position A semi-sitting position in
bed; the head of the bed is elevated 30 to 45
degrees. p. 510
serosanguineous drainage Thin, watery drainage
that is blood-tinged (sanguineous). p. 478
serous drainage Drainage that is a clear and watery
fluid. p. 478
sexism Feelings of intolerance or prejudice toward a
person or group of people because of their gender.
p. 152
sexual abuse Any nonconsensual sexual act (includ-
ing touching) that results from a threat, coercion, or
force. p. 254
sexual harassment Any conduct, comment, gesture,
threat, or suggestion that is sexual in nature; a form
of sexual abuse. p. 254
sexually transmitted infections (STIs) Diseases that
are spread through sexual contact. p. 881
sharps Equipment or items that may pierce the skin;
include needles, razor blades, and broken glass.
p. 446
shearing Tearing of skin tissue caused when the skin
sticks to a surface (usually the bed or chair) and
deeper tissues move downward, exerting pressure
on the skin. p. 464
shingles A viral infection causing a painful rash of
raised blisters, which can appear anywhere on the
body, usually on one side. It is caused by the same
virus that causes chicken pox. p. 845
shock The condition that results when there is not
enough blood supply to organs and tissues. p. 476
side effect A response to a medication that occurs in
addition to the intended or main response. p. 995
signs Information about a client’s health gained
through observation and the use of other senses.
Also known as objective data. p. 207
Sims’ position A left-side-lying position; the right leg
is sharply flexed so that it is not on the left leg, and
the left arm is positioned along the client’s back.
p. 512
single-parent families Families in which the adult
head of the household does not have a partner who
shares the home. p. 154
sitz bath A shallow plastic bathtub, filled with warm
water, designed to keep the buttocks and hips
immersed while the person is in the sitting position.
p. 1020

skin tear A break or rip in skin; the epidermis separ-
ates from the underlying tissue. p. 463
slander The making of false verbal statements that
hurt the reputation of a person. p. 143
sleep–wake disorders Conditions in which repetitive
disturbed sleep patterns lead to distress and impair-
ment in that person’s daytime functioning. p. 790
slider Item (including slider sheet, slider board, and
slider sheet system) made of low-friction material
with handles and used to move clients. p. 498
sliding pad See turning pad. p. 497
slipper pan See fracture pan. p. 691
SOB Acronym for “short of breath.” p. 929
SOBOE Acronym for “short of breath on exertion.”
p. 929
social health Well-being in the social dimension,
achieved when people have stable and satisfying
relationships. p. 50
social media Websites and applications through
which users create virtual communities or networks
to share information, ideas, personal messages, and
other content. p. 69
social reintegration See social support. p. 4
social support Equipping a person with the skills and
knowledge necessary to successfully live independ-
ently outside an institution. Also known as social
reintegration. p. 4
social support system An informal group of people
who help each other or others outside the group.
p. 50
solicited letter of application A letter of application
that responds to an advertised position. p. 1083
spastic Uncontrolled contractions of skeletal muscle
and smooth muscle. p. 893
specific immunity The ability of an organism to resist
or overcome an infection or illness against a certain
disease or infection caused by a pathogen or anti-
genic substance. p. 300
sphygmomanometer The instrument used to measure
blood pressure. p. 243
spina bifida A congenital disorder caused by improper
closing of the spine before birth. p. 894
spiritual health Well-being in the spiritual dimension
achieved through the belief in a purpose greater
than the self. p. 51
SpO2 Peripheral capillary oxygen saturation; the
reading given by a pulse oximeter for the percent-
age of oxygen-saturated hemoglobin that is dis-
solved in the blood. p. 239
Glossary 1123
spousal abuse Abuse of a partner by a partner in an
intimate relationship such as a marriage or com-
mon-law relationship. p. 256
sputum Mucus from the respiratory system that is
expectorated (expelled) through the mouth. p. 946
Standard Practices Guidelines to prevent the spread
of infection from blood, body fluids, secretions,
excretions, non-intact skin, and mucous mem-
branes. Also known as Routine Practices or Stan-
dard Precautions. p. 444
Standard Precautions See Standard Practices.
p. 444
stasis ulcer See venous ulcer. p. 473
stereotype An overly simple or exaggerated view of a
group of people. p. 151
sterile Free of all microbes, both pathogens and non-
pathogens, as well as their spores. p. 435
sterile field A work area free of all microbes, both
pathogens and nonpathogens. p. 455
sterile technique See surgical asepsis. p. 435
sterilization The process of destroying all microbes.
p. 435
Steri-Strip A proprietary type of adhesive bandage;
thin strips are applied across a skin tear to bring the
skin edges together and hold them together while
the wound heals. p. 464
stethoscope An instrument used to listen to the
sounds produced by the heart, lungs, and other
body organs. p. 244
stigma Social disgrace associated with a particular
circumstance, quality, or person that causes one to
feel shame or embarrassment—for example, “the
stigma of being fired from a job.” p. 60
stoma A surgically created opening from a portion of
the body cavity to the outside environment. p. 724
stool Excreted feces. p. 731
straight catheter A catheter that is inserted to drain
the bladder and is then removed. p. 702
strep throat A throat that is infected with strepto-
cocci. p. 362
streptococci (singular, streptococcus) A type of bac-
teria that cause strep throat and other medical
issues. p. 364
stress The emotional, behavioural, or physical
response to an event or situation. p. 101
stress incontinence The leaking of urine during exer-
cise and certain movements. p. 700
stressor An event or situation that causes stress.
p. 101
1124 Glossary
stroke Sudden loss of brain function because of
the disruption of blood supply to the brain.
Also known as cerebral vascular accident (CVA).
p. 515
subacute care See complex continuing care.
p. 35
subjective data See symptoms. p. 207
submissiveness A show of obedience, meekness,
and compliance in the face of conflict or a difference
of opinion, instead of assertiveness. p. 79
substance-related and addictive disorder The
deliberate misuse of and inability to stop the abuse
of prescription medications, illegal drugs, alcohol, or
other substances. p. 795
substitute decision maker for health care A person
authorized to make health care decisions on behalf
of a living person who is unable to do so. Also called
power of attorney for health care or proxy
depending on the province. p. 138
substitute decision maker for property The
person who would represent an incapable
person’s interests regarding his or her belongings.
p. 139
suctioning The process of withdrawing or sucking up
fluid (secretions). p. 952
sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) The sudden,
unexplained death of an apparently healthy infant
under 1 year of age. p. 329
suffix A word element placed at the end of a root to
change the meaning of the word. p. 194
suffocation A lack of oxygen that causes breathing to
stop. p. 402
suicidal behaviour disorder A disorder whose main
trait is recurrent thoughts about or a preoccupation
with ending one’s own life. p. 791
sundowning A condition in which the signs, symp-
toms, and behaviours of dementia increase at
bedtime or during hours of darkness. p. 830
superficial Near the surface of the body. p. 273
superior Situated above another structure or toward
the upper part of the body. p. 273
supervising Being responsible for monitoring and
overseeing the activities of others on the health care
team. p. 91
supination Turning upward. p. 539
supine position A back-lying position; the legs are
together. Also called dorsal recumbent position or
horizontal position. p. 511
supportive housing facility See assisted-living facil-
ity. p. 36
support worker A health care worker who provides
services to people, both in facilities and in the com-
munity, who need help with their daily activities.
p. 3
suppository A cone-shaped, solid medication that is
inserted into a body opening. p. 736
suppression A conscious refusal to acknowledge a
painful or upsetting situation. p. 79
suprapubic catheter A catheter that is surgically
inserted into the bladder through the abdomen.
p. 702
surgical asepsis Practices that keep equipment and
supplies free of all microbes. Also known as sterile
technique. p. 435
sympathy Feeling compassion for or understanding
the difficulties of another person. p. 165
symptoms Information reported by a client that cannot
be directly observed by others. Also known as sub-
jective data. p. 207
syncope A brief loss of consciousness; fainting. p. 536
systole The period of heart muscle contraction. p. 241
systolic pressure The amount of force required to
pump blood out of the heart and into the arterial
circulation. p. 241
tachycardia A rapid (tachy) heart rate (cardia); a rate
over 100 beats per minute in an adult. p. 237
tachypnea Rapid (tachy) breathing (pnea); respira-
tions are 24 or more per minute. p. 932
tartar Hardened biofilm on teeth. p. 613
task A function, procedure, or activity that a
support worker assists with or performs for the
client. p. 92
team leader See case manager. p. 91
Telehealth Medical telephone call centres through
which nurses give advice to callers about health
concerns. p. 25
tertiary health care delivery The specialized, highly
technical level of health care that takes place in
large research and teaching hospitals. p. 25
therapeutic effect Causing a desired, positive effect
in the body. p. 995
thrombus A blood clot that forms in a blood vessel,
which has the potential to become an embolus.
p. 1050
thrush A common yeast infection that resembles
cottage cheese or milk curds and is found on the
sides and roof of the baby’s mouth and sometimes
the tongue. p. 330
tinnitus Ringing in the ear. p. 914

tissue A group of similar cells with a common func-
tion. p. 274
toddlerhood Ages 1 to 3 years; characterized by tol-
erating separation from the primary caregiver,
gaining control of bowel and bladder functions,
using words to communicate, and starting to assert
independence. p. 307
tonic–clonic seizure A seizure involving convulsions.
p. 894
tort A wrongful act committed by an individual against
another person or the person’s property. p. 140
toxic shock syndrome (TSS) A rare, often life-threat-
ening, illness that develops suddenly after an infec-
tion. p. 323
tracheostomy A surgically created opening (ostomy)
through the neck into the trachea (tracheo). p. 950
trade name of a drug The name given to a drug by
the manufacturer. Also known as the proprietary
name. p. 992
transfer To move a person from one place to another,
using the client’s assistance with partial to full
weight-bearing. p. 514
transfer belt A strong strap that is secured around the
client’s waist or hips to help and support the client
to stand, sit, and walk. It is removed after the activity
is completed. p. 516
transfer board A smooth board placed between two
surfaces (e.g., a chair and a wheelchair) that allows
the client to slide over more easily. p. 518
transfer of function A process by which a nurse
authorizes another health care provider to perform
certain tasks. p. 92
transgender A person’s gender identity differing from
that person’s physical sex characteristics. p. 152
transient ischemic attack (TIA) A temporary inter-
ruption of blood flow to the brain. p. 858
Transmission-Based Practices Guidelines to contain
pathogens within a certain area, usually the client’s
room. p. 445
trauma An accident or violent act that injures skin,
mucous membranes, bones, or internal organs
(physical trauma) or causes an emotionally painful,
distressful, or shocking result (emotional trauma),
which often leads to lasting mental and physical
effects (psychological trauma). p. 462
traumatic brain injury See acquired brain injury
(ABI). p. 776
tuberculosis (TB) A persistent bacterial infection gen-
erally transmitted by the inhalation or ingestion of
infected droplets and usually affecting the lungs,
although infection of multiple organ systems occurs.
p. 432
Glossary 1125
tumour A new growth of abnormal cells that could be
malignant or benign. p. 876
tuning fork An instrument used to test hearing. p. 1039
turning pad A small pad or folded sheet placed on top
of the bottom sheet and extending from the client’s
head to above the knees. Also known as a sliding
pad, turning sheet, transfer sheet, or lift pad. A
turning pad is sometimes (inaccurately) referred to
as a drawsheet. p. 497
umbilical cord The structure that carries blood,
oxygen, and nutrients from the mother to the fetus.
p. 339
unethical Not morally correct. p. 118
unintentional wound A wound resulting from trauma.
p. 463
universality A principle of the Canada Health Act that
states that all residents are entitled to the same
basic level of health care services across the country.
p. 24
unregulated care providers (UCPs) A broad term
applied to staff members who assist nurses and
other health care providers in giving care. p. 11
unsolicited letter of application A letter of applica-
tion that inquires about potential openings.
p. 1083
upper respiratory infections (URIs) The medical
term for colds and other viral illnesses that affect the
throat, nose, and sinuses. p. 363
ureterostomy An artificial opening (stomy) between
the ureter (uretero) and the abdomen. p. 724
urge incontinence The loss of urine in response to a
sudden, urgent need to void. p. 700
urgent surgery Surgery that must be done soon
to prevent further damage, disability, or disease.
p. 1043
urinary frequency The need to urinate at frequent
intervals. p. 692
urinary incontinence The inability to control the
passage of urine from the bladder; the loss of
bladder control. p. 692
urinary tract infection (UTI) An infection in the urinary
system. p. 871
urinary urgency The need to void immediately. p. 692
urination The process of emptying urine from the
bladder. Also known as micturition or voiding.
p. 690
urticaria A common skin condition characterized by
raised, usually itchy wheals. It is commonly caused
by an allergic reaction to food, food additives, or
drugs. Also known as hives. p. 845
1126 Glossary
vaccine A suspension containing a live (attenuated) or
killed bacterium or virus that is administered for the
purpose of inducing active immunity to a specific
infectious disease. Vaccines are available in either
oral or injectable suspensions. p. 423
vaginal speculum An instrument used to open the
vagina so that it and the cervix can be examined.
p. 1039
validate To acknowledge, recognize, or confirm the
client’s feelings. p. 105
validation therapy A type of therapy for people with
dementia that focuses on empathy and advocates
accepting the affected person’s perception of reality.
p. 828
values What an individual considers to be worthwhile
or desirable qualities in a person. p. 118
vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE) A type
of multidrug-resistant organism made up of bacter-
ium. p. 425
vascular ulcer See circulatory ulcer. p. 473
vector An organism that spreads infection by trans-
mitting pathogens from one host to another but is
not the cause of the infection. p. 430
veins Blood vessels that carry blood back to the heart.
p. 289
venous ulcer Open wounds on the lower legs and feet
caused by poor blood return through the veins. Also
known as stasis ulcer. p. 473
ventilator A machine used to provide airflow into and
out of the lungs. p. 954
ventral See anterior. p. 195
venules The smallest form of veins. The venules drain
blood from the capillaries and come together to
form the veins. p. 289
verbal communication Messages sent through the
spoken word. p. 70
verbal report A spoken account of care provided and
observations made. p. 209
vertigo Dizziness. p. 914
viruses Infectious particles that are much smaller than
bacteria and infect living cells to grow and multiply.
p. 423
vital signs Temperature, pulse, respirations, and blood
pressure (and SpO2 if possible). p. 225
voiding See urination. p. 690
waterless, alcohol-based hand rubs Hand hygiene
products that are rubbed into the hands and then
allowed to dry completely, thereby killing most
microbes on the skin’s surface in seconds. Also
called waterless antiseptic handwash. p. 436
weight-bear To shift body weight onto feet while
attempting to stand. p. 514
wellness The achievement of the best health possible
in all dimensions of one’s life. p. 52
Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome A brain disorder that
is caused by lack of thiamine (vitamin B1); affects
the nervous system, including the brain; and is
usually associated with heavy alcohol consumption
over a long period. p. 813
wheal A circular, red, spongy lesion that evolves
(develops) and changes over minutes to hours. It is
usually surrounded by an area of redness called a
flare. p. 845
wheat bag (or beanbag) A type of heating bag that
provides dry heat and is heated in a microwave.
p. 1018
will A legal document stating a person’s wishes con-
cerning the distribution or disposal of his or her
property. p. 139
word element A part of a word. p. 191
workplace bullying Acts or verbal comments that
could mentally “hurt” or isolate a person in the work-
place. p. 267
workplace etiquette Professional, ethical, friendly,
and respectful behaviour toward all staff and co-
workers at all times. p. 70
Workplace Hazardous Materials Information
System (WHMIS) A national system that provides
safety information about hazardous materials;
includes labelling, material safety data sheets
(MSDSs), and employee education. p. 411
workplace violence Any physical assault or threaten-
ing behaviour that occurs in a work setting that is
directed toward clients, members of the health care
team, or both. p. 413
wound A break in the skin or mucous membrane.
p. 462
young adulthood Ages approximately 18 to 40 years;
characterized by choosing an education and an
occupation, selecting and learning to live with a
partner, becoming a parent and raising children, and
developing a satisfactory sex life. p. 314
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CHAPTER 1
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CHAPTER 19
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CHAPTER 20
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CHAPTER 21
1. Government of Canada. (2013). Addressing
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CHAPTER 22
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CHAPTER 23
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CHAPTER 25
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CHAPTER 35
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CHAPTER 37
1. Canadian Skin Cancer Foundation. (2012).
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2. Canadian Dermatological Association. (n.d.).
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6. Arthritis Society. (n.d.). Rheumatoid arthritis.
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types%20of%20arthritis/ra/default.asp?
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7. Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada. (n.d.).
About MS. Retrieved from <https://mssociety
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8. ALS Society of Canada. (n.d.). The ALS Society
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9. Public Health Agency of Canada. (2015). Cardio-
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10. Heart and Stroke Foundation. (2016). Retrieved
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.ikIQLcMWJtE/b.3483991/k.34A8/Statistics
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11. Canadian Women’s Health Network. (2014).
Short of breath: For Canadian women, COPD
deaths surpass those from breast cancer. Retrieved
from <http://www.cwhn.ca/en/networkmagazine/
shortofbreath?page=show>.
12. Healthwise, Incorporated. (2014). Prostate
enlargement/BPH health center. WebMD.
Retrieved from <http://www.webmd.com/men/
prostate-enlargement-bph/benign-prostatic
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13. Canadian Diabetes Association. (2016). Are you
at risk? Retrieved from <https://www.diabetes.ca/
about-diabetes/risk-factors/are-you-at-risk>.
14. Statistics Canada. (2015). Leading causes of death,
by sex: (Both sexes). Retrieved from <http://www.
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cst01/hlth36a-eng.htm>.
15. Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation. (n.d.).
Breast cancer in Canada, 2015. Retrieved from
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16. Canadian Cancer Society. (2016). Prostate cancer.
Retrieved from <https://www.cancer.ca/en/
cancer-information/cancer-type/prostate/
statistics/?region=on>.
17. Canadian Cancer Society. (2016). What is child-
hood leukemia? Retrieved from <https://www
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leukemia-childhood/childhood-leukemia/?regio
n=on>.
CHAPTER 38
1. Health Canada. (2002). Congenital anomalies in
Canada: A perinatal health report (p. 2). Ottawa:
Health Canada.
2. MentalHelp.net. (2016). Introduction to attention-
deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Retrieved
from <https://www.mentalhelp.net/articles/
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3. American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diag-
nostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th
ed., p. 99). Arlington, VA: Author.
4. Canadian Mental Health Association, British Col-
umbia division. (2014). Attention-deficit/hyper-
activity disorder in children and youth. Retrieved
from <http://www.cmha.bc.ca/get-informed/mental
-health-information/child-adhd>.
5. EatRight Ontario. (2016). What you need to know
about preservatives. Retrieved from <http://www.
eatrightontario.ca/en/Articles/Food-technology/
Biotechnology/Novel-foods/What-you-need-to
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6. Geneva Centre for Autism. (n.d.). Home page.
Retrieved from <http://www.autism.net>.
7. Canadian Press. (2013, July 11). Autism gender
bias clue found. CBC News. Retrieved from <http://
w w w. c b c . c a / n e w s / h e a l t h / a u t i s m - g e n d e r
-bias-clue-found-1.1185572>.
CHAPTER 39
1. Joanette, Y., Lafond, D., & Lecours, A. R. (1993).
The client with aphasia. Living with aphasia: Psycho-
social issues (pp. 19–36). San Diego, CA: Singular
Publishing Group.
CHAPTER 40
1. Telethon Speech & Hearing. (2011). Causes, types
and treatments of hearing loss/otitis media.
Retrieved from <http://www.doyouhear.org.au/
c a u s e s - s i g ns-symptoms/causes-types-and
-treatment-of-hearing-loss-otitis-media>.
References 1135
2. Starkey Hearing Technologies. (2015). Hearing
aid use & care. Retrieved from <http://www
.starkeycanada.ca/hearing-aid-use-and-care>.
3. CNIB. (2003). Eye Connect: AMD. Retrieved
from <http://www.cnib.ca/amd/edu/amd_info.
htm>.
4. Doctors of Optometry Canada. (n.d.). Retrieved
from <http://doctorsofoptometry.ca/retinal
-detachment/>.
5. Canadian Opthalmological Society. (n.d.). Which
lenses are right for you? Retrieved from <http://
www.cos-sco.ca/vision-health-information/conditions
-disorders-treatments/cataract/which-lenses-are
-right-for-you/>.
CHAPTER 42
1. Government of Canada. (2015). Reduce humidity,
moisture and mould. Retrieved from <http://www.
hc-sc.gc.ca/ewh-semt/air/in/poll/mould
-moisissure/rid-debarrasser-eng.php>.
2. Innovation, Science and Economic Development’s
Office of Consumer Affairs. (n.d.). Guide to apparel
and textile care symbols. Retrieved from <https://
www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/oca-bc.nsf/eng/ca02009.
html>.
CHAPTER 46
1. Canadian Mental Health Association. (2015).
Grieving. Retrieved from <https://www.cmha
.ca/mental-health/your-mental-health/grief/
Grieving>.
2. Reprinted from WHO Definition of Palliative
Care, World Health Organization, <http://www
.who.int/cancer/palliative/definition/en/>, Copy-
right 2015.
CHAPTER 47
1. Western Information and Privacy Officer. (2007).
Best practices: Electronic posting of student per-
sonal information. Retrieved from <http://www
.uwo.ca/tsc/resources/pdf/BestPracticesPersonal
Information.pdf>.
Index

24-hour clock, in documentation, 218f, Acute illness, 35, 65
219b, 223 Acute pain, 178
24-hour urine specimen, 718, 718f, 729 Acute renal failure, 872–873
30-degree lateral position, 470, 471f Acute stress, 101
Addictions, 802
A Addictive disorders, 795–796, 802
Abbreviations, 192t, 196–197, 200, 217, Adduction, 539b, 853b
997 ADHD. see Attention-deficit/hyperactivity
Abdominal regions, 195, 196f, 198 disorders (ADHD)
Abduction, 539b, 853f, 885 Adipose tissue (fat), 275
ABGs. see Arterial blood gases (ABGs) ADLs. see Activities of daily living (ADLs)
ABI. see Acquired brain injuries (ABI) Administrator, 139–140
Aboriginal support worker, 12t–13t Admission, 1036, 1055
Abrasion, 463 Adolescence, 312–314, 577
Absorption, 570, 987 ADPIE charting, 219b, 220
Abuse, 252–270, 257b–259b, 261b, 263b ADRD. see Alzheimer’s disease and related
Abusive relationships, 256–263 dementias (ADRD)
Accessibility, 24b Adrenal glands, 299
Accident risk factors, 383–385, 385b Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH),
Accidental poisoning, prevention of, 299
357–358, 359b Adult client abuse, 270
Accidents, prevention of, with equipment, Adult day centre, 40
403, 403b, 404f, 419 Adult day program, 40
Accountability, 91–92, 212 Advance directive, 138, 139b, 1069
Accuracy, in documentation, 217 Adverse effects, of medications, 995, 1011
Achilles tendon, 281, 281f Advice, giving, 77
Acquired brain injuries (ABI), 776–778, Advocate, 3
778b, 860, 889t–891t Aerosols, medications and, 988t–989t,
Acquired immune deficiency syndrome 989f
(AIDS), 423, 433t–435t, 880, 881b Affected side, 515
Acquired immunity, 300 AFO. see Ankle-foot orthosis (AFO)
Act, 131 Afternoon care, 613
ACTH. see Adrenocorticotropic hormone Age, 385, 1059–1061
(ACTH) Ageism, 151–152, 151b, 262
Active immunity, 300 Age-related macular degeneration (AMD),
Active listening, 71–74 919–920, 920f, 926
Active range-of-motion (ROM) exercises, Aggression, 832
538 Aging, 9, 579, 805b. see also Older adults
Active-assistive range-of-motion (ROM) Agitation, 831–832, 839–840
exercises, 538 Agoraphobia, 784–785
Activities director, 12t–13t AIDS. see Acquired immune deficiency
Activities of daily living (ADLs), 4, 18–19, syndrome (AIDS)
207b–208b, 212–214, 215f Air flotation bed, 471f
Activity, 533–556, 540b Airborne precautions, 446–447
Acute care, 35, 45, 1033–1056, 1037b Airborne transmission, 430t–431t, 431f,
878
Airway suctioning, 952–953, 953b–954b,
Page numbers followed by b, t, and f indicate 954f
boxes, tables, and figures, respectively. Alcohol, 796, 958–960
Alcohol use disorder (AUD), 796
Alimentary canal, 292
Allergy, 578, 995–996
All-purpose cleaners, 966
Alopecia, 651–652, 686–687
ALS. see Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
(ALS)
Altered respiratory function, 929–932,
931b, 958
Alternating pressure mattress, 750, 751b,
766
Alternative health practices, 27
Alternative remedies, 991
Alveoli, 291, 867
Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias
(ADRD), 810–811, 839
AM care, 613
Ambu bag, 953, 953f
Ambulation, 545–553, 545f, 546b–547b
Ambulatory surgery, 1043
AMD. see Age-related macular degeneration
(AMD)
Amenorrhea, 788
Ammonia, 978, 982
Ammonia rash, 329b, 330
Amputation, 854–855, 854f
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), 862,
885
Anaesthesia, 1049
Anal incontinence, 735
Anaphylaxis, 996
Anatomical position, 273
Anatomical terms, 273, 273f
Aneroid manometer, 243
Aneurysm, 860
Anger, 793, 794b
Angina, 885
Angina pectoris, 864–865, 864f
Angry people, communication with, 79,
80b, 85
Ankle-foot orthosis (AFO), 553, 553f
Anorexia nervosa, 788–789, 800
Answering your own questions, 76–77
Anterior location, 195, 198
Antibodies, 300, 995–996
Anti-embolic stockings, 680–682, 680b–
681b, 681f
Antigens, 300, 995–996
Antiperspirants, 627

1136

Antisocial personality disorder, 797
Anuria, 199
Anxiety, 104b, 783
Anxiety disorders, 783–786
Apathy, 807
Aphasia, 859, 903–904, 905b
Apnea, 199, 932, 932f
Appearance, professional, 14, 15b, 15f
Appetite, 207b–208b, 578
Apraxia of speech, 809b, 904, 910
Aquathermia pad, 1022–1024, 1024f
Arrhythmias, 867
Arterial blood gases (ABGs), 945b
Arterial ulcers, 474f, 475, 475b, 490
Arteries, 289, 289f, 302
Arteriole, 289
Arthritis, 199, 855–857, 885
Arthroplasty, 855
Articular cartilage, 279
Artificial airways, 947–952, 950f
Artificial eyes, 923, 923f
ASD. see Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
Asepsis, 432, 459
Aspiration, 588, 603–604, 620–621
Assault, 142, 146
Assertiveness, 79, 106
Assessment, 222–223
Assessment forms, 212, 213f
Assigning, 92–97
Assimilate, 150
Assisted suicide, 1059
Assisted-living facilities, 37–39, 45,
90–91
Assisted-living residences, 36
Asthma, 867
Ataxic cerebral palsy, 893
Atelectasis, 933–935
Atherosclerosis, 863–864, 864f
Athetoid cerebral palsy, 893
Athlete’s foot, 846f–847f, 848–849
Atria, 288
Atrophy, 376
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorders
(ADHD), 896, 901
Attitudes, 53, 1058–1061
AUD. see Alcohol use disorder (AUD)
Authority, 92–93
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), 897,
901
Autoimmune disorders, 883
Autonomy, 123, 127
Avoidant personality disorder, 797
Awareness, challenges in, 384
Axillary temperature, 232, 233f, 250
B Bleeding, on IV site, 610
B lymphocytes (B cells), 300
Baby boomers, 369
Back massage, 640, 641b–642b, 641f
Bacteria, 423
Bag baths, 633
Bagging items, 453–454, 453f–454f
Baking soda, 966
Balance of power, 167–168
Index 1137
Ball-and-socket joint, 279 Blood pressure, 241–245, 242b, 244b,
Barrel chest, 868, 869f 245f, 246b–249b, 248f, 1055
Barrier creams, 734 Blood stains, removing of, 978b
Basal cell carcinoma, 850 Blood vessels, 289–290, 1014, 1014f
Base of support, 494, 531 Blood-borne pathogens, 446
Basic human rights, in Canada, 130 Body after death, 1059
Basic needs, 454–455 Body alignment, 493, 493f, 532
Bath chair, 521, 521b–522b Body cavities, 275, 275f
Bath mat, 638, 638f Body dysmorphic disorder, 787
Bath oils, 627, 648 Body language and symbols, 72, 155–156,
Bathing, 625–640, 626b, 627t 911
of infant, 340–341, 341b–344b, Body mechanics, 491–532, 494b–495b,
341f–344f, 348 495f
Bathrooms, 177, 177f, 967–972, 973b– Body of letter, 1086
974b, 974f, 1037b, 1038f Body structure, function and, 271–302
Battery, 142 Body substances, laundry soiled with,
Bean bags, 1018b 976–978, 982
Beards, caring for, 661, 687 Body temperature, 230–236, 231t
Bed bath, complete, 626–633, 628b–632b Boil, 846f–847f, 848
Bed boards, 536, 537f Bone marrow, 277
Bed cradle (Anderson frame), 472, 472b, Bone marrow transplantation, 878
472f, 536 Bone tissue, 275
Bed making, 749–767, 757b Bones, 277–279, 278f
Bed positions, 752–753 Bony prominence, 465
Bed rails, 397–399, 398f, 417, 419 Borderline personality disorder, 797
Bed rest, 535–539, 555 Bottle-feeding, 331–335, 332b–335b,
Bed to chair or wheelchair transfer, 333f–335f, 348
517–518, 518b–520b, 519f–520f, 532 Bowel elimination, 730–748
Bed to stretcher, moving client from, 503, Bowel movements, normal, 731–732,
503b–505b, 505f 747–748
Bedpans, 691–692, 693f–695f, 694b–696b, Bowel training, 735–736, 747
728 Bowels, observations of, 207b–208b
Bedrooms, 967–972, 968b Bowlby’s phases of mourning, 1063,
Beds, 177, 189, 749–767 1063t
Bedside furniture, client comfort, 177, 177f Bowman’s capsule, 295–296
Behaviour therapy, 774 BPH. see Benign prostatic hypertrophy
Belief, 118, 119b (BPH)
Beneficence, 123–124, 126 Braces, 553, 553f, 556
Benefits, 27, 1094 Braden scale, 465–467, 468f
Benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), 873 Bradycardia, 237
Benign tumours, 876, 876f Bradypnea, 932, 932f
Bereavement, 1061 Braille, 922, 922f, 926
Between-meal nourishments, 591 Brain, 283, 284f
Bias, 150 Brain injury, 562b, 808, 857–858, 859f,
Bile, digestion and, 294 860
Bill of Rights, 131–134, 132b–134b, 135f, Brain tumour, dementia and, 808–809
1066b Breast care, after childbirth, 324–325
Binge eating, 789 Breastfeeding, helping mothers in, 331,
Biofilm, 613 332b, 332f
Biohazardous waste, 453, 453f Bronchitis, 199, 868
Bipolar disorders, 779–781, 780t, 801 Bronchoscopy, 945b
Bladder, 207b–208b, 296 Broom, 966
Bladder training, 714, 729 Bruise, 463
Blanket warmers, 1014–1016 Brush, 966
Bleach, chlorine, 978, 982 Brushing of teeth, 615, 615b–618b,
616f–617f
Blended families, 154 Brushing/combing hair, 652–655, 653f,
Blister (bubble) pack, 986, 986f 686
Bloating, 735 Bulimia nervosa, 789–790
Blood, 287 Burnout, 101, 115
Blood clot, 867 Burns, 357, 358b, 358f, 399–402, 400b,
Blood flow, 289 400f, 418, 1016, 1031
Blood in stool, 744 Burping of infant, 335–336, 336f,
Blood in urine, 721 348
1138 Index
C Cervix, 297
CAD. see Coronary artery disease (CAD)
Caesarean section, 324, 347
Caffeine intake, 580–583
Calcium, 299
Call bell, 407–410, 409f–410f, 410b
Calming exercises, 106, 106b–107b
Calories, 571, 593, 598
Canada Health Act, 22, 25–26, 29, 32
Canada’s Food Guide, 572–576, 573b, 574f,
575b, 597
Canadian Alliance for Mental Illness and
Mental Health (CAMIMH), 775
Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms,
130, 145–146, 253–254, 268–270
Canadian health care system, 20–32, 22f,
23b–24b
Canadian Human Rights Act, 130–131
Canadian Multiculturalism Act, 148–149
Cancer, 876–878, 877b
Canes, 551, 551f–552f, 556
Cannula, 604
Capillaries, 289
Capsules, medications and, 988f,
988t–989t
Carbohydrates, 571
Carbon dioxide, 291–292, 302
Carbon monoxide detectors, 402–403, 418
Carbon monoxide poisoning, 402–403
Cardiac muscle, 281
Cardiovascular disorders, 862–867
Cardiovascular system, 286–290, 287f,
290b
Care conference, 90
Care plan, 204–205, 212, 962, 979, 980b
Career, 1075–1097
Caregiver needs, 833–837, 837b
Care-planning process, 202–205
Caring, 16
Carriers, 426–427
Cartilage, 275
Case manager, 91, 98
Casting, 851, 852b, 885
Cataract, 920f, 921
Catastrophic reactions, 831
Catheter, 604
Catheterization, 702
Catheters, 702–714, 703b–705b, 704f
Cavities (dental caries), 613
Ceiling lift, 517f
Celiac disease, 587, 870, 885
Cell division, 274f
Cells, 273–274, 274f, 301–302
Central intravenous sites, 605, 605f
Central nervous system (CNS), 282f,
283–284
Centre of gravity, 493, 493f
Cerebral cortex, 302
Cerebral palsy (CP), 892–893, 900
Cerebral vascular accident (CVA), 858–860,
859b, 859f
Cerebrospinal fluid, 284
Cerumen (earwax), 285
Cervical mucus, 323
Chain of infection, 428b, 429–432, 430f
Chairs, 177, 177f, 514, 515f, 517–518,
518b–520b, 519f–520f
Challenging child, support for, 362, 363b
Challenging/responsive behaviours,
827–833, 834b–835b, 836f
Charting. see Documentation
Charts, 210–221, 223
Chemical barriers, 300
Chemical burns, 401
Chemical digestion, 294
Chemical imbalances, mental health
disorders and, 800–802
Chemical restraints, 396–397
Chemotherapy, 877
Chest tubes, 955–956, 956f, 957b,
959–960
Chest X-ray (CXR), 945b
Chewing problems, 587
Cheyne-Stokes respirations, 932, 932f
CHF. see Congestive heart failure (CHF)
Chickenpox, 433t–435t, 879t
Child abuse, 259–261, 269
Child neglect, 260
Childhood, nutrition, 576
Childhood infections, prevention of, 362
Childhood injuries, risk factors for, 355b,
367
Childproof caps, 418
Children, 10, 10f, 258b–259b, 350f,
351b–352b, 615b
Chlorine bleach, 978
Choking, prevention of, 357b, 367
Cholecystitis, 870, 885
Choroid, 285
Chronic bronchitis, 868
Chronic hepatitis, 879
Chronic illness, 35
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD), 868–869
Chronic otitis media, 913–914
Chronic renal failure, 873, 873b, 885
Chronic stress, 101
Chronic wound, 463
Chronological resumé, 1078, 1079f
Chyme, 294, 731
Circle symbol, laundry and, 974
Circulation, stimulating, 1050–1052
Circulatory system, 286–291, 376–377
Circulatory ulcers, 473–475
Circumcision, 340, 340f, 348
Cirrhosis, 870, 879
Civil laws, 140
CJD. see Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD)
Clarifying, 75–76
Claustrophobia, 784–785
Clean rags, 966
Clean technique, 432
Clean utility room, 1035
Clean wound, 463
Clean-contaminated wound, 463, 489
Cleaning, 441, 965b
Cleaning products, 966–967, 967b, 982
Cleansers, 966
Client, 3f, 9, 139–140, 171
Client abuse, 269
Client care, altered respiratory function
and, 934b–935b
Client identification, 385–386, 386f, 418
Client information, 14–15, 1044–1045
Client needs, in dementia, 820–825,
839–840
Client placement, 446
Clients, 1034
abuse of health care workers by,
265–266, 266b
care for, in nonjudgemental way, 158,
159b, 161
supporting, 801–802
visiting safety, 414b–416b
working directly for, 40, 41b
Client’s family, 168–169
Client’s money, 582, 962–964
Client’s rights, 128–146
Client’s room, 1049–1050
Client’s viewpoint, 17
Client’s wishes, respecting, 972b
Clinical depression, 781
Closed bed, 756, 756f, 758b–761b,
758f–761f
Closed captioning, 917
Closed fracture, 850, 850f
Closed questions, 74
Closed reduction, 851
Closed wound, 463
Closet/drawer space, client comfort, 178
Closing, of letter, 1086
Clostridium difficile, 425, 433t–435t
Clothing, 668–677, 668b, 687, 1091
Cloths, 966
Clutter, cleaning, 982
CNS. see Central nervous system (CNS)
Cochlea, 286
Code of ethics, 118–119, 119b–120b
Cognitive disability, 889–892, 891b
Cognitive function, 805, 838–840, 857
Cognitive health, 51–52, 52f
Cognitive impairment, 805
Cold applications, 484, 1015t, 1016b–
1017b, 1026–1027, 1032
Cold compresses, 1027, 1029b–1030b
Cold feet, 380
Colds, 363–364
Colitis, 870
Collaboration, opportunities for, 88
Collective bargaining, 144
College, 10–11
Colon, 294
Colostomy, 739–740, 740f
Colour visual analogue scale, 180f
Combativeness, 832
Combining vowel, 193
Comfort, 176–178, 604, 604f, 1040b,
1053, 1067–1068
Commercial enemas, 736, 737b–739b, 738f
Commodes, 521b–522b, 521f, 698,
698b–699b

Communicable diseases, 426, 878–882,
879t
Communicable phase, 427
Communication, 68–69, 68f, 81b–83b, 88,
89b, 155–158, 211f, 825–827, 827f
Communication aids, 922
Communication barriers, 76–78, 76f
Communication boards, 905, 905f
Community, delegation in, 95–96, 95b
Community care, rehabilitation setting in,
559
Community Care and Assisted Living Act,
134
Community care-planning process,
205–206
Community day programs, 40, 40f, 41b, 91
Community services legislation, 144
Community settings, 91–92
Community-based services, 36, 45–46
Community-based settings, 36, 36f
Compassion, 19, 165
Compassionate care, 16, 684, 685b, 727,
727b, 1037b, 1068b
Competence, 165–166, 165b
Complete bed bath, 626–633, 628b–632b,
629f–632f, 649
Complex care facilities, 37
Complex continuing care, 35
Composting, 979
Composting, of items, 979
Comprehensiveness, 24b
Compression bandage, 1026b
Compulsion, 786
Computers, for speech and language
disorders, 906, 906f
Concerns, 1044b
Conditional offer, 1094, 1097
Condom catheter, 710b–712b, 711f–712f,
713–714, 729
Conduct, 119, 1091
Conduct disorders, 793–795
Condyloid joint, 280
Confidentiality, 14–15, 70, 220–221
Conflict, 103, 113b–114b, 116, 169, 169f,
170b, 171
Conflicting demands, 964, 964b–965b
Confusion, 805
Congenital conditions, tracheostomies and,
950b
Congenital heart defects, 866b
Congenital heart disease, 889t–891t
Congestive heart failure (CHF), 866, 866b,
885
Conjunctivitis, 362, 364, 918
Connective tissue, 275
Consent, 137
Consistency, in documentation, 217
Constipation, 733–734
Constricted blood vessels, 1014, 1014f
Consumer products, use of, in workplace,
413
Contact lenses, 922
Contact precautions, 447
Contact transmission, 430f, 430t–431t
Contagious disease, 426
Contaminated wound, 463, 489
Contamination, 432–435
Continuity of care, in documentation, 212
Continuous feedings, 602–603, 602f, 609
Contracture, 535, 535f, 555
Control, lack of, 103
Controlled acts, 92–93
Contusion, 463
Convalescent care, 35
Convulsion, 857
COPD. see Chronic obstructive pulmonary
disease (COPD)
Corn braids, 654b
Coronary artery disease (CAD), 863–866
Coughing, 1045, 1050, 1056
Coughing, oxygen needs and, 933–935,
935b–936b, 936f, 959
Cover letter, 1083, 1086
CP. see Cerebral palsy (CP)
Cradle cap (seborrheic dermatitis), 328
Cranial cavity, 275, 275f
Creams, 627
Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD), 813
Crib safety, 757b, 767
Crime, 140
Criminal laws, 140
Critical thinking, 11, 17
Crohn’s disease, 870–871, 885
Cross-contamination, 582
“Crowd” dating, 318
Crutches, 550–551, 550f, 556
Crying infants, comforting of, 328, 328b
Cultural competence, 153
Cultural conflict, 152–153, 153b
Cultural differences, with hair, 653–654
Cultural group, 161
Cultural mosaic, 148–149
Cultural salad, 148–149
Culturally sensitive care/support, 158
Culture, 53, 118, 119b, 147–161, 150b,
150f, 578, 648, 775–776, 776b, 800,
1059
Curative surgery, 1044
Currency, in documentation, 211–212
Curriculum vitae, 1077
Cutting hair, 654–655
CVA. see Cerebral vascular accident
(CVA)
CXR. see Chest X-ray (CXR)
Cyanosis, 933b
“Cyber-speak”, 69
Cycle of abuse, 254–256, 256f
Cyst, 846f–847f, 848, 885
Cystitis, 872, 885
D 338f, 348
Daily planning, 109b
Daily value (DV), 579, 598
Dandruff, 652
Dangle legs, 506, 508b–509b, 508f–509f
DAR charting, 219b, 220
Data forms, 212, 223
Day surgery, 1043
Index 1139
Death, 373, 1058–1061, 1060b, 1070,
1070b, 1074
Decision making, 17, 88, 109–110
Decisiveness, 110
Deconditioning, 534–535
Decontamination, 441
Deep, 273b
Deep breathing, oxygen needs and,
933–935, 935b–936b, 936f, 959
Deep-breathing, 1045, 1050, 1056
Defamation, 143, 146
Defecation, 294, 640, 731, 733b
Defence mechanisms, 78–79, 105, 115
Dehiscence, 476, 476f, 490
Dehydration, 593, 734–735, 735b
Delegation, 86–99, 94b–95b, 97b
Delinquency, abuse and, 269
Delirium, 803–840, 808b
Delusions, 778, 831, 831f, 840
Dementia, 82b–83b, 639–640, 803–840,
807b, 809b–810b, 816t–819t,
821t–822t, 825b–826b, 827f, 861
Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), 812
Democratic rights, 255b
Demyelination, 861
Denial, 78, 1073
Dense fibrous, 275
Dental caries, 613
Denture, 648
Denture care, 623, 623b–625b, 623f–624f
Deodorants, 627, 648
Dependence, 166–167
Dependent older adults with disabilities,
257b
Dependent personality disorder, 797
Depression, 373, 374b, 781b–782b, 801,
814–815, 840
Depressive disorders, 781–783
Dermatitis, 845, 846f–847f
Dermis, 276–277
Detergents, 966
Determinants of health, 54–56, 55b, 64
Detoxification, 796
Development, 305, 318–319
Developmental disorders and disabilities,
886–901, 888f, 889t–891t,
898b–899b
Developmental tasks, 305
Diabetes, 585t–586t, 598, 687, 874–875,
885
Diabetic diet, 583–587
Diabetic retinopathy, 920–921
Diagnostic surgery, 1043
Dialysis, 873
Diaper rash, 328–330, 329b
Diapering, 336–337, 337b–339b, 337f–
Diaphragm, 292
Diarrhea, 734–735, 735b
Diastole, 241, 289
Diastolic pressure, 241
Diet, bowel movement and, 732
Dietitian, 12t–13t
Digestion, 292, 570
1140 Index
Digestive disorders, 869–871
Digestive system, 292–294, 293f, 377
Digestive tract wall, structure of, 292–293
Digital removal of an impaction, 734
Digital thermometers, 235, 235f
Dignity, 16, 60, 184b, 351b, 566b, 568,
844b, 963b, 1059
Dilated blood vessel, 1014, 1014f
Dimensions of health, 49–52, 64
Dining programs, 589b, 589f
Diplegia, 893
DIPPS, 16, 17b, 19, 158, 773–774, 773b
Direct contact, 430f, 430t–431t, 878
Directional terms, 195–196
Dirty utility room, 1035
Dirty wound, 463
Disability, 9, 47–65, 57b–58b, 262, 733
Discharges, 1038, 1055
Discipline, 360–361, 360b–361b
Discomfort, observations of, 207b–208b
Discretion, about personal matters, 15–16,
16b
Discrimination, 60, 65, 150–151
Disease, absence of, 64–65
Disease prevention, 27–28, 32, 56
Dishwashers, 972f
Dishwashing, 966
Disinfectants, 442b, 966
Disinfection, 441–442, 459
Disorientation, 803–840
Displacement, 78–79
Disposable gloves, 439
Disruptive behaviour disorders, 793–795
Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder
(DMDD), 782–783
Distal, 195, 198, 273b
Distilled water, 942–943
Distraction, for pain relief, 182–183, 189
Distribution, of medications in body, 987
Diuresis, 872
Diversity, 147–161, 578b
Diverticular disease, 871, 871f
Diverticulitis, 871
Diverticulosis, 871
Diverticulum, 871
DLB. see Dementia with Lewy bodies
(DLB)
DMDD. see Disruptive mood dysregulation
disorder (DMDD)
“Do not resuscitate” orders, 1069–1070,
1074
Documentation, 215–220, 218b, 223,
996–997
Dorsal, 196
Dorsal cavity, 275, 275f
Dorsal recumbent position, 1040
Dorsiflexion, 539b
Dosette, 986–987, 986f
Dot matrix thermometers, 235–236, 235f
Double-bagging, 454, 454f, 459
Down syndrome (DS), 892, 892f, 900
Drainage bag, 706b–710b, 707f–710f
Drainage systems, 712–713, 712f
Draping, 1040–1041, 1041f
Dreadlocks, 654b
Dressing, grooming and, 650–687
Dressing clients, 675b–677b, 676f, 687
Dressings, 479–484, 484b–485b, 484f, 490
Dribbling, 700
Drinking devices, 563
Driving safety, 414b–416b, 416f
Droplet precautions, 447
Droplet transmission, 429f–431f,
430t–431t
Drops, medications and, 988f, 988t–989t
Drug, classification of, 991–992, 992t–994t
Drug action, 987, 992–995, 995t
Drug allergy, 995–996
Drug antagonism, 987
Drug effects, 991–992
Drug interactions, 987–990
Drug synergism, 987
Drug therapy, 781, 1011
Drug tolerance, 795
Drug withdrawal, 795
Dry cold packs, 1027, 1027b–1029b, 1028f
Dry heat applications, 1016–1017, 1018b
DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of
Mental Disorders, fifth edition), 772b,
796–797
Duodenum, 294
Dustpan, 966
DV. see Daily value (DV)
Dying, 1059, 1065, 1073
Dying rituals, 1060b
Dysarthria, 904, 910
Dysphagia, 377, 577, 587–588, 859
Dyspnea, 195, 377, 866, 932
Dysrhythmia, 237
Dysuria, 691, 692t
E Employer’s needs, 1083–1086
Ear, 285–286, 285f, 302
Ear disorders, 913–918, 914b
Ear drops, assisting with, 1005b–1006b,
1006f
Ear infection, 364
Early ambulation, 1045, 1052–1053, 1055
Ears, observations of, 207b–208b
Eating, assisting clients with, 587–593,
591b–592b, 591f
Eating devices, 563
Eating disorders, 787–790
Eating habits, of children, 353–354
Eating utensils, 579, 580f
Eating Well with Canada’s Food Guide,
572–576, 573b, 574f, 575b, 597
ECT. see Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)
Eczema, 845, 846f–847f, 885
Edema, 473, 593
Education, 261
Educational program, 11
Egg crate–like mattress, 473
Ejaculation, 312
Ejaculatory duct, 296
Elastic bandages, 682, 682b–683b, 683f,
687, 1052
Elastic stockings and bandages, 1052
Elbow protectors, 472, 472f
Elective surgery, 1043, 1056
Electric blankets, 1018b
Electric shaver maintenance, 661
Electrical burns, 400–401, 401f
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), 782
Electronic blood pressure machine, blood
pressure using, 248b–249b
Electronic communication, 69, 69f, 221
Electronic devices, for speech and language
disorders, 905–906, 906f
Electronic documentation, 215–217, 217b
Electronic manometer, 244
Electronic privacy, 136–137, 138b
Electronic safety, 414b–416b
Electronic talking aid, using symbols, 906f
Electronic thermometers, 232b–234b, 235,
235f
Elevated wheelchair armrests, 514, 514f
Elimination, 691b, 728, 1067
Elixirs, medications and, 988t–989t
Emails, 917, 1087, 1087b
Embolus, 867, 1050–1051, 1051f
Emergency surgery, 1043
Emesis, 869
Emotional abuse, 254, 258b–259b, 260,
270
Emotional changes, with aging, 370–373
Emotional health, 50, 64, 564
Emotional neglect, 260
Emotional pressure, 102–103, 103f
Empathetic listening, 74
Empathy, 3, 74, 165
Emphysema, 868–869
Employee, responsibilities of, 411, 418
Employer, respecting your, 92
Employer’s duties, under WHMIS, 413
Employer’s responsibilities, 410–411, 419
Employment offer, 1092–1095
Employment standards legislation, 143, 146
Encourage fluids, 593
Endocarditis, 195
Endocrine disorders, 874–876
Endocrine system, 298–299, 298f
End-of-life care, 35–36, 1057–1074
Endometrium, 297–298
Endo-tracheal (ET) tube, 949, 950f
Enemas, 736, 1002b–1003b
Engorged breasts, 324–325
Enhanced headphones, 917
Enriched foods, 576b
Enteral nutrition, 599–610, 603b, 608b
Entertainment, devices for, 922
Environment, psychosocial health, 174
Environmental health, 55–56
Environmental restraints, 396, 396f
Epidermis, 276–277, 301
Epididymis, 296
Epiglottis, 291
Epilepsy, 857–858, 893–894, 901
Epileptic seizure, 885
Epinephrine, 299
Episiotomy, 323–324
 Index 1141

Epithelial cells, 274–275 False imprisonment, 142, 388, 417 Fluids, bowel movement and, 732
Epithelial tissue, 274–275 Family, 154, 154f, 168–169, 169f, 170b, Focus, 110, 110f
Equality rights, 255b 171 Focusing, 76, 85
Equipment, 177–178, 441–442, 444f, Family, role of, in rehabilitation, 561 Foley catheter, 702, 702f, 705b–706b, 729
445–446, 459, 614–615, 966, 1039, Family background, psychosocial health, Follow-up, 1092
1039f 173–174 Fomite, 430
Equitable, 55 Family conference, 90 Food, quality of life and, 579b
Erection, 640 Family crisis, 260 Food choices, of child, trust in, 353
Erikson’s stages of psychosocial Family life, change in, 59 Food groups, 597
development, 173–174, 174t, 188 Family situations, reporting of, 361b Food intolerances, 578
Eructating, 735 Family support, 4 Food labels, 579–580
Estate trustee, 139 Family therapy, 774 Food safety, 582–583, 584b, 598
Estrogen, 297 Fantasizing, 79 Food tray, assisting clients, 590b, 590f
Ethical dilemma, 121, 121b–122b, 125, FASD. see Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders Foodborne illness, 582
125b, 127 (FASD) Foot care, 664–665, 665b–668b, 666f
Ethics, 117–127, 119b Fats, 571 Foot ulcers, 473–475
Ethnic identity, 149 Fatty foods, 381 Footboards, 536, 537f, 555
Ethnicity, 149–153 Fears, 1044b Footdrop, 536
Ethnocentrism, 149 Febrile respiratory illness (FRI), 430t–431t, Foreskin, 646, 646f, 648
Euphoria, 807 433t–435t Formulas, 601–602
Eupnea, 931 Fecal impaction, 734, 747 Fortified foods, 576b
Eustachian tube, 364 Fecal incontinence, 735 Fowler’s position, 510–511, 510f
Eustress, 101 Fecal stains, removing, 978b, 982 Fracture pan, 691–692, 693f
Evacuating, during fire, 406–407, 407b, Feces, 294, 731 Fractures, 850–852, 850f, 851b
408f Federal role, 23 Fragile X syndrome, 889t–891t
Evaluation, 205–206 Feeding clients, 594b Freedom of information, 142–143
Evening care, 613 Feeding disorders, 787–790 FRI. see Febrile respiratory illness (FRI)
Evisceration, 476–477, 477f Feeding of infant, 353 Friction, 463–464, 496, 532
Exceptions, 92–93 Feeding pumps, 602f, 609 Fried foods, 381
Excoriation (skin-picking) disorder, 787 Feeding tube, 600–601, 602f, 604b, 604f Friendships, 164, 164b
Excretion, medication and, 987 Female, perineal care for, 643b–645b, Front matter, 1086
Executor, 139–140 644f–645f Fronto-temporal degeneration dementia
Executrix, 139–140 Female reproductive system, 297–298, 297f (FTD), 812
Exercise, 533–556 Fertilization, 298 Frostbite, 1026, 1032
Exhalation, 291 Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD), Fruits, 575
Experience, 1059–1061 895–896, 901 Frustrations, daily, 103
Expiry dates, 581–582 Fever, 300 FTD. see Fronto-temporal degeneration
Explaining procedures, 80–81, 82b Fibromyalgia, 857, 885 dementia (FTD)
Expressive aphasia, 903–904 Finances, 578 Full-thickness wound, 463
Expressive aphasia, communicating with, Financial abuse, 254, 258b–259b, 270 Functional incontinence, 700
908b Finger cushion, 538f Functional resumé, 1080, 1081f
Expressive–receptive aphasia, 904, 910 Fire extinguisher, 405–406, 407f Fundamental freedoms, 255b
Extension, 539b Fire safety, 404b, 939–940, 940b–941b Funding, in documentation, 212
External rotation, 539b Fires Fundus, 297
Eye care, 1067 being prepared for, 406b Funeral planning, 1071
Eye contact, 157 oxygen use and, 405, 406b, 418 Fungi, 423
Eye disorders, 914b, 918–925 prevention of, 403–407, 404b–405b Furuncle, 848
Eye medications, assisting with, 1004b– what to do during, 405–407, 419
1005b, 1004f–1005f First aid, 1026b G
Eye protection, 445, 453 First Nations, 22, 774 Gait belt, 516, 516f, 545, 545f
Eyeglasses, 921, 926 Five Rights of Delegation, 96b Gallbladder, 294
Eyes, 207b–208b, 284–285, 285f Flat bed position, 752, 752f Gallbladder disease, 870
Flatulence, 735 Gangrene, 473, 854, 854f
F Flatus, 733, 735 Garment protectors, 700, 701f
Face shields, 453 Flexibility, 110 Gastric juices, 294
Facial expressions, 157 Flexion, 539b, 556 Gastroenteritis, 364
Facility-based settings, 37–40, 38f Flossing, 618, 619b–620b, 620f Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD),
Failing to listen, 78, 78f Flotation pads, 472, 473f, 490 869, 885
Failure to thrive, 260 Flow rates, oxygen, 942 Gastrointestinal system (GI system), 292
Fallopian tube, 297 Flow sheets, 212–214, 215f Gastro-jejunostomy tube, 600–601
Falls, 385b, 418–419, 547, 548b–549b, Flowmeter, 942f Gastrostomy tube, 600, 601f, 609–610
549f, 556 Flu season, 885 Gauze, 479, 479f
Falls prevention, 356–357, 356b, 356f, Fluid balance, 593–594, 598 Gavage, 600–601
386–388, 389b–390b, 390f–391f, 418 Fluid requirements, 593, 593b, 598 Gel packs, 1022, 1022f
1142 Index

Gender, 56 Hand grips, 536, 538f Home assessment forms, 212

General anaesthesia, 1049 Hand hygiene, 435–442, 436b–438b, Home care, 28–30, 28f, 29b, 32, 37, 37f,
Generalized scleroderma, 849 437f–438f, 441b, 459 38b, 45, 91
Generalized seizures, 894 Hand rolls, 536, 538f Home care funding, 29–30
Generic name, of drug, 992 Harassment, 143 Home management, 4–5, 961–982, 963b
Genetic endowment, 56 Hardened secretions, 640 Home preparation, 1043
Genetic immunity, 300 Hashimoto’s disease, 883 Home support services, 29, 32
Genital herpes, 882t, 883f Hazardous materials, handling of, 411–413 Homeostasis, 275
Genitalia, 297, 297f Health, 47–65, 49f Homes for the aged, 42
Gentle Persuasive Approaches (GPA) Health care ethics, 121–126, 121b–122b Homophobia, 152
program, 829 Health care reform, 32 Honeymoon phase, 254, 269
Geographically isolated older adults, 257b Health care system, Canadian, 20–32 Horizontal position, 1040
GERD. see Gastro-esophageal reflux disease Health care team, 10–14, 10f, 19, 87–91, Horizontal violence, 70
(GERD) 98–99, 381 Hormones, 298, 302, 874
Geri chair, 396, 396f Health care workers, abuse of, 265–267 Hospice, 36, 90
Geriatrics, 369–370 Health care–associated infection (HAI), 427 Hospice care, 1064, 1065b
German measles, 879t Health insurance portability, 30b Hospital beds, 750–752, 751f–752f,
Gerontology, 369–370 Health promotion, 27–28 766–767
Gestational diabetes, 874 Hearing, 384, 1067, 1074 Hospital gowns, changing, 677, 678b–
Glass cleaners, 966 Hearing aids, 915–917, 915f, 916b, 925 679b, 678f–679f
Glass thermometers, 234, 251 Hearing assistance, technology for, 917 Hospital rooms, 1036, 1036f
Glaucoma, 920f, 921, 926 Hearing disorders, 912–926 Hospital unit, 1035–1036
Gliding joint, 280 Hearing dogs, 917 Hospitals, 37, 40–42, 90, 559
Global aphasia, 904 Hearing impairment, 915, 917–918, 919b Hot-water bottles, 1018b
Global Deterioration Scale, 815 Hearing problems, 925–926 Hot-water cycle, 982
Glomerulus, 295–296 Heart, 287–289, 288f Housekeeping, 4–5
Gloves, 439, 440b, 440f, 445, 452f, 457f, Heart attack, 865–866 HPV. see Human papilloma virus (HPV)
459 Heat applications, 484, 1014–1024, 1015t, HS care, 613
Glucocorticoids, 299 1016b–1017b, 1031–1032 Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV),
Glucosuria, 720–721 Heating pads, 1018b 433t–435t, 880, 881b, 885
Gluten-free diet, 587 Heberden’s nodes, 856, 856f Human papilloma virus (HPV), 433t–435t
Goals, 203–204, 204f, 1077 Heel elevators, 472, 473f Human Rights Act, 130–131
Gonads, 296, 299 Height measurement, 225–226, 226b– Human rights legislation, 143, 146
Gonorrhea, 882t 229b, 226f–227f, 229f Humidified oxygen, 942–943
Good impression, 1091 Hematoma, 476 Humidifier, 942–943, 943f
Gout, 857, 885 Hematuria, 199, 692t Humour, 71
Gown, 445, 451b–452b, 452f, 459 Hemiplegia, 199, 687, 893 Huntington’s disease, 861, 885
Grab bars, 1037b, 1038f Hemoglobin, 287 Hydrocephalus, 813, 889t–891t
Graduate, 594, 594f Hemoptysis, 931b Hygiene, 611–649
Grain products, 575, 597 Hemorrhage, 199, 476 Hymen, 297
Grandeur, delusions of, 778 Hemorrhoids, 734 Hyperalimentation, 604
Graphic sheets, 212, 214f, 223 Hemothorax, 956 Hyperextension, 539b
Grasping reflex, 306 Hemovac, 478, 478f Hyperglycemia, 874–875, 875t, 885
Graves’ disease, 883 Hepatitis, 433t–435t, 870, 878–880, 880b Hypertension, 242, 863, 863b
Grief, 1061–1063 Hepatitis B virus, 885 Hyperthyroidism, 876, 885
Grief counselling, 1061, 1062b High Fowler’s position, 510, 510f, 753, Hyperventilation, 932, 959
Groceries, 581–582 753f Hypoglycemia, 875, 875t
Grooming, 650–687, 653b, 1091 High-sodium diet, in hypertension, 885 Hypotension, 242
Group homes, 39, 39f Hinge joint, 279–280 Hypothalamus, 299
Group interview, 1089–1090 Hip fractures, 852, 853b, 853f Hypothyroidism, 876
Group therapy, 774 Hirsutism, 652 Hypoventilation, 932
Growth, 303–319 Histrionic personality disorder, 797 Hypoxia, 932, 933b, 958
Growth hormone, 299 HIV. see Human immunodeficiency virus Hysterectomy, 199
Guardian of property, 139 (HIV)
Guided imagery, for pain relief, 183 Hives, 845 I
Hoarding, 833, 840 IADLs. see Instrumental activities of daily
H Hoarding disorder, 787 living (IADLs)
H1N1 virus, 429 Holding, of infants, 326, 327f IBS. see Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
HAI. see Health care–associated infection Holding chamber, assisting with metered Ice bags, 1027, 1027b–1029b, 1028f, 1032
(HAI) dose inhalers with, 1009b–1010b, Ice collars, 1027, 1027b–1029b, 1028f
Hair, aging and, 376 1010f Ice gloves, 1027
Hair care, 651–657, 652f, 686 Holism, 49, 64 Ice packs, 1027b
Hair pulling disorder, 787 Holistic health, 49 Ileal conduit, 724, 724f
Hallucination, 778, 801, 831, 831f, 840 Home assessment, 559b–561b Ileostomy, 740–742

Ileum, 294
Illness, 47–65, 57b–58b, 578–579
Illness prevention strategies, 56
Immobility, 535–536
Immoral, 118
Immune globulin, 300
Immune system, 300, 302, 367, 426–427
Immune system disorders, 882–883
Immunity, 300
Immunization, 433t–435t
Impaired balance, 860
Impetigo, 846f–847f, 848, 885
Implementation, 205–206
Impulse-control disorders, 793–795
Incentive spirometry, 937
Incident report, 214, 411, 412f, 419
Incision, 463
Incontinence brief, changing, 672b–674b,
674f
Incontinence pad, 701–702, 755, 755b
Incontinence products, 700, 701f
Incubation period, 427
Independence, 16, 166–167, 167f, 171,
184b, 351b, 566b, 567, 844b, 963b
Indirect contact transmission, 430f,
430t–431t, 878
In-dwelling catheter, 702, 702f, 705b–706b,
729
Infancy, 305–307, 307f, 318, 576
Infants, 258b–259b, 320–348, 322b,
350–354
Infected wound, 463
Infection, 362–365, 426, 426b–428b,
458–459, 476
Infection control, 422, 976–978
Inferior, 273b
Infiltration, 606
Inflammation, 300
Inflammatory phase, 475, 490
Influenza, 429, 881
Information, freedom of, 142–143
Informed consent, 137, 146, 417
Ingestion, 570
Ingredients, 579
Ingrown hairs, 661–662, 661f
Ingrown nails, 664
Inhalation, 291
Injury, 354–362, 354b–355b, 366,
386–388
Inner cannula, of tracheostomy tube, 951,
951f
Inpatients, 41
Insomnia, 185
Instrumental activities of daily living
(IADLs), 4, 30, 30f
Insulin, 299, 874
Intake and output records, 594, 595f, 596b
Integumentary disorders, 844–850
Integumentary system, 276–277, 276f,
374–376
Intellectual disabilities, 889–892, 891b
Intellectual health, 564
Intentional wound, 463
Interdependence, 166–167
Interdisciplinary team, 90
Intermittent explosive disorder, 793–794
Internal rotation, 539b
Interpersonal communication, 66–85
Interpreters, use of, 155, 156b
Interprofessional health care team, 90
Interrupting, 76
Interventions, in planning, 204
Interview experience, 1093b
Interview questions, 1090b, 1096
Interview tips, 1091–1092
Intra-ocular lens implants, 922
Intravenous, 199
Intravenous therapy, 599–610, 606b–608b,
606f–607f
Intubation, 949
Inuit, 22, 774
Invasion of privacy, 142–143, 146
Involuntary muscles, 284
Iron symbol, laundry and, 974
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), 870, 885
Isolation, abuse and, 260
Isolation precautions, 442–455
J Liable, 140
Jackson-Pratt drainage, 478, 479f
Jaundice, 331b
Jejunostomy tube, 601, 601f
Jejunum, 294
Job application form, 1087–1088
Job burnout, 106–107, 107b
Job interview, 1088–1092
Joint capsule, 279
Joint movements, 539b
Joints, 279–280, 279f, 301
JRA. see Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA)
Justice, 123, 126
Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA), 857b
K Linen, 446, 753–756, 754f–755f, 756t, 766
Kardex, 214–215
Ketones, in urine, 720–721
Kidney basin, 617f
Kidney failure, 872
Kidneys, 295, 302
Kids Help Phone, 265
Kitchens, cleaning, 967–972, 969b–971b,
982
Kneading, 641f
Knee-chest position, 1040–1041, 1041f
Kübler-Ross’s stages of grief, 1063
Kussmaul respirations, 932, 932f
L Long-term care, 35
Labelled container, medications and, 1012
Labia majora, 297
Labia minora, 297
Labour relations legislation, 144
Laceration, 463
Lactation, 324–325
Language rights, 255b
Laryngeal mirror, 1039, 1039f
Larynx, 291
Laser surgery, 922
Index 1143
Late adulthood, 316, 577–578
Late childhood, 311–312, 312f
Lateral, 195, 198, 273b
Lateral position, 511–512, 511f
Laundry, 972–978, 975b–976b, 982
Laundry care symbols, 974–976, 977f
Leads, for job search, 1082–1083
LED. see Light-emitting diode (LED)
Left lower quadrant, 196f
Left upper quadrant, 196f
Left ventricle, 302
Leg bag, 706b–708b, 707f–708f
Leg exercises, 1045, 1051–1052, 1052f
Leg ulcers, 473–475
Legal issues, 140–143, 1068–1070
Legal responsibilities, 264
Legal rights, 130, 143–144, 255b
Legislation, 130
Legs, shaving of, 661
Letter of application, 1083–1087, 1084f–
1085f, 1096
Leukemia, 876–877
Leukocytes, 323
LGBTQ, 152
Libel, 143
Lice, 652, 652f
Licensed practical nurse (LPN), 12t–13t, 13
Life circumstances, psychosocial health, 174
Lifelong learning, 15
Lifestyle, ambulation and, 545
Life-threatening illness, 1058, 1073–1074
Lift, 515b, 517b
Lift pads, 755
Lifting of client, 524–528, 531
Ligaments, 279
Light-emitting diode (LED), 226
Lighting, client comfort, 176–177
Line of gravity, 493, 493f
Liquid oxygen system, 938–939, 939f
Listening skills, 1066, 1090, 1096
Lithotomy position, 1040, 1041f, 1056
Liver disease, 870
Living rooms, cleaning, 967–972, 969b
Living will, 138, 1069
Local anaesthesia, 1049
Local infection, 426
Localized effect, of medications, 991
Localized scleroderma, 849
Lochia, 322–323, 323f, 347–348
Log-rolling, 498, 501b–502b, 501f–502f,
532
Long-Term Care Act, 134
Long-term care facilities, 37, 42, 42f,
43b–44b, 46, 90, 90f, 189, 559, 589
Long-term care facilities legislation, 144,
146
Long-term care homes, 42
Loss of dignity, 60
Loss of independence, 60
Lotions, 627
Lou Gehrig’s disease, 862
1144 Index
Love/belonging needs, 175
Low Fowler’s position, 510, 510f, 752,
752f, 754b, 754f
Lower airway suctioning, 952
Lozenges, medications and, 988f, 988t–
989t, 1011
LPN. see Licensed practical nurse (LPN)
Lung scan, 945b
Lunge stance, 494
Lungs, 292
Lupus, 883, 885
Lymph, 275
Lymphatic system, 286, 290–291, 291f
Lymphocytes, 300
M Ménière’s disease, 914, 925
Major depressive disorder, 781–782, 800
Male, perineal care for, 646b–647b, 646f
Male reproductive system, 296–297, 296f
Malignant melanoma, 849f, 850
Malignant tumours, 876, 876f
Mammary glands, 297, 298f
Mania, 780
Manic-depressive illness, 779
Manometer, 243–244
Manual lifts, 524
MAR. see Medication administration record
(MAR)
Marginalize, 56
Marginalized persons, 257b
Masklike expression, 860
Masks, 445, 448–449, 449b–451b, 450f,
459
Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, 174–176,
175f, 188–189
Massage, back, 640, 641b–642b, 641f
Mastectomy, 195
Master gland, 298–299
Mastication, 293–294
Mastitis, 325, 325b, 347
Masturbation, 832
Maturation phase, 475
MDI. see Metered dose inhaler (MDI)
Meal planning, 581
Meal trays, 589
Mealtimes, setting stage for, 353
Measles, 433t–435t, 879t
Measurements, in recipes, 582t
Meat and alternatives, 576
Mechanical barriers, 300
Mechanical devices, for speech and language
disorders, 905–906
Mechanical digestion, 293–294
Mechanical lift, 515b, 525b–528b,
526f–527f
Mechanical scale, 227f
Mechanical ventilation, 954–955, 954f,
955b, 959
Mechanically lifting, of client, 524–528,
525b–528b, 526f–527f
Medial, 195, 198, 273b
Medical asepsis, 432–435, 443b–444b
Medical devices, 922
Medical diagnosis, 203
Medical facilities, 40–42 Morals, 118, 119b
Medical issues, 9 Morning care, 613
Medical terminology, 190–200 Moro reflex (startle reflex), 306
MedicAlert bracelet, 987, 987f Mothers, 10, 320–348, 322b
Medicare, 21 Mould, 972
Medication administration record (MAR), Moustaches, caring for, 661, 687
996–997, 998f, 1011 Mouth, 207b–208b, 293–294, 302
Medication errors, reporting, 1000 Mouth care, 620–621, 620f, 621b–622b,
Medication labelling requirements, 999, 648, 1067
1000b Movement, observations of, 207b–208b
Medications, 189, 384, 417–418, 732–733, Moving clients, in bed, 494–506, 495b
983–1012, 985b, 988t–989t, MRO. see Multidrug-resistant organisms
989b–990b (MRO)
Melena, 744, 748 MRSA. see Methicillin-resistant
Menarche, 312 Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
MS. see Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Meningocele, 895, 895f Multidrug-resistant organisms (MRO), 424,
Menopause, 315, 378 425b–426b, 458
Menstrual care, 647 Multi-infarct dementia, 811
Menstruation (menstrual cycle), 297–298 Multiple sclerosis (MS), 861–862, 885
Mental health, 770–776 Mumps, 879t
Mental health care services, 36 Muscle atrophy, 535, 536f
Mental health disorders, 768–802, Muscle tissue, 275
771b–772b, 776b Muscles, 280–282, 280f–281f
Mental health issues, 10 Musculo-skeletal disorders, 850–857
Mentors, 88 Musculo-skeletal system, 277–282, 376,
Mentorship, opportunities for, 88 380
Mercury manometer, 243 Myelomeningocele, 895, 895f
Metabolic arthritis, 857 Myocardial infarction (MI), 865–866,
Metabolic problems, dementia and, 808 865b, 865f, 885
Metabolism, 299
Metabolization, 987 N
Metastasis, 876, 876f N-95 respirator, 449, 449b, 449f
Metered dose inhaler (MDI), 988t–989t, Nail care, 345, 664–665, 665b–668b,
1008b–1010b, 1009f–1010f 666f–667f, 687
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus Narcissistic personality disorder, 797
(MRSA), 424–425, 433t–435t Narcotics, oxygen needs and, 958–960
Métis, 22 Narrative charting, 218
MI. see Myocardial infarction (MI) Narrative notes, 212, 214f
Microfibre tools, 966 Nasal cannula, 940–941, 941f
Microorganisms, 422–424, 430t–431t Nasal speculum, 1039, 1039f
Micturition, 690 Nasogastric (NG) tube, 600, 601f, 609
Middle adulthood, 315, 315f, 319, 577 Nasointestinal tube, 600, 601f, 609
Middle childhood, 310–311, 310f Naso-pharyngeal airway, 949, 950f
Midline, 273b Naso-pharyngeal suctioning route, 952
Midstream specimen, 716, 717b–718b, 729 Needles, 446
Mildew, 972 Needs, 106, 174–175
Milk products, 576, 597 Negative impression, 1094–1095
Mineralocorticoids, 299 Negative phrases, 911
Minerals, 571, 573t Negative reinforcement, 363
Minority language education rights, 255b Neglect, 254, 258b–259b
Mites, 845–848 Negligence, 140–142, 141b, 146
Mitted washcloth, 629f Nephritis, 194
Mobility, 255b, 384, 563, 565f Nephrons, 295–296, 295f
Mode of transmission, 430, 430t–431t, Nerve tissue, 275
443b–444b Nervous system, 282–284, 282f, 376
Moist cold application, 1027, 1032 Nervous system disorders, 857–862
Moist heat application, 1016–1017, 1032 Neural tube defect (NTD), 894
Monoplegia, 893 Neuro-cognitive disorder, 808
Mons pubis, 297 Neurons, 282, 283f
Mood altering, 795 Newborns, 10, 306, 306f
Mood swings, 800 Nits, 652
Mop and bucket, 966 Nocturia, 185, 692t
Moral rights, 130 Nocturnal emissions, 312

Noise, client comfort, 176
No-lift policy, 494b–495b, 525b
Non-adherent gauze, 479
Nonbiological caregivers, 260
Nonmaleficence, 124–127
Nonpathogens, 423
Non-rebreather mask, 942, 942f
Nonreversible dementia, 805
Nonspecific immunity, 300
Nonsterile dressing, 484, 485b–488b
Nonverbal communication, 71–73, 72b, 85
Norepinephrine, 299
Normal flora, 423–424
Normal fluid requirements, 593, 593b
Normal pressure hydrocephalus, 813
Normal saline enemas, 736b
Normal urination, 689–698, 728–729
North American Nursing Diagnosis
Association (NANDA), examples of,
international nursing diagnoses, 203b
Northern Pain Scale, 182f
Nose, 207b–208b, 286
Nosocomial infections, 427
Nostril care, in dying patient, 1067
Nothing by mouth (NPO), 593, 598, 604,
610, 1045, 1056
NSAIDs. see Nonsteroidal anti-
inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
NTD. see Neural tube defect (NTD)
Nuclear family, 154
Nurse practitioner, 12t–13t
Nursing diagnosis, 203, 203b, 204f, 222
Nursing homes, 37, 42
Nursing process. see Care-planning process
Nursing services, 29–30
Nutrients, 571–572
Nutrition, 569–598, 570f, 1067
Nutrition claims, 580
Nutrition facts table, 579, 579f
Nutritional deficiencies, dementia and, 809
O Otosclerosis, 914
Oath of confidentiality, 136
Obesity, 352, 545
Objective data, 207
Observations, 207–209, 207b–208b, 210b,
222, 603–604, 615, 626, 1050, 1051b
Obsession, 786
Obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD),
786–787, 797, 800
Obturator, of tracheostomy tube, 950–951,
951f
Occult blood, 744
Occupational health, standard practices for,
446
Occupational health and safety (OH&S)
legislation, 143, 410, 411b
Occupational therapist, 12t–13t
Occupied bed, 761–762, 762b–765b,
762f–764f, 767
Occurrence report, 411
OCD. see Obsessive–compulsive disorder
(OCD)
Ocular prosthesis, 923
ODD. see Oppositional defiant disorder
(ODD)
Odours, client comfort, 176
OH&S. see Occupational health and safety
(OH&S)
Ointments, medications and, 988f,
988t–989t
Older adult abuse, 261–262, 264
Older adults, 368–381, 369f, 371b, 577,
598
Olfactory receptors, 286
Oliguria, 191–193, 692t, 734–735, 872
Open bed, 761, 761f, 762b, 767
Open fracture, 850, 850f
Open reduction, 851
Open wound, 463
Open-ended questions, 75
Operating room, transport to, 1049
Ophthalmoscope, 1039, 1039f
Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), 793
Optimal health, 52–53, 53f
Oral cavity, 293–294
Oral hygiene, 613–623, 648
Oral medications, assisting with,
1000b–1002b
Oral temperature, 231, 231f
Organ systems, 273–276, 276f
Organization, for job search, 1076
Oro-pharyngeal airway, 949, 950f
Oro-pharyngeal suctioning route, 952
Orthopnea, 929, 932–933, 958
Orthopneic position, 933, 933f
Orthostatic hypotension, 535–536, 537b
Orthotics, 563
Osteoarthritis, 855–856, 856f
Osteomyelitis, 852–854
Osteoporosis, 855, 885
Ostomy, 739–742, 741f
Ostomy pouches, 741–742, 741f, 742b–
744b, 748
Otitis media, 364, 913–914
Otoscope, 1039, 1039f, 1056
Oucher pain scale, 181f
Outer cannula, of tracheostomy tube, 951,
951f
Outpatients, 41
Ovaries, 297
Overbed tables, client comfort, 177
Overflow incontinence, 692t, 700
Over-the-counter (OTC) medications,
990–991, 1011
Ovulation, 297
Ovum, 297
Oxygen, 302
Oxygen administration, 942–943,
943b–944b
Oxygen administration devices, 940–942
Oxygen concentrator, 938, 938f
Oxygen cylinder, 938, 938f
Oxygen flow rates, 942
Oxygen needs, 927–960, 930b–931b
Oxygen saturation levels (SpO2), 225, 946,
958
Index 1145
Oxygen therapy, 934b–935b, 937–943,
940b, 959
Oxygenation, promoting, 932–937
Oxygen-conserving devices, 939
Oxytocin, 299
P
Pacemakers, 867, 885
Pacifier thermometers, 236b
Pacing, 840
Padded tongue blade, 620f–621f, 621
Pain, 178–183, 180b–181b, 180f, 183b,
207b–208b
Pain reactions, 182, 182b
Pain relief, 1066
Pain scale, 180f
Palliative care, 35–36, 1064–1068, 1065b,
1073
Palliative care units, 90
Palliative surgery, 1043–1044
Pancreas, 294, 299
Pandemic, 429
Panic disorder, 783–784
Parallel play, 307
Paralysis, 862, 862f, 863b
Paranoia, 778
Paranoid personality disorder, 797
Paraphrasing, 74, 75b
Paraplegia, 862
Parasites, 423
Parasympathetic nervous system, 284
Parathormone, 299
Parathyroid glands, 299
Parenteral medication, 988t–989t, 989f
Parkinson’s disease, 813, 860–861, 885
Paroxysmal dyspnea, 867
Partial bath, 633, 633b–634b, 633f
Partial seizures, 894
Partial-rebreather mask, 941, 941f
Partial-thickness wound, 463
PASS, 406, 407f
Passive immunity, 300
Passive range-of-motion (ROM) exercises,
538, 555
Passive-aggressiveness, 79
Pathogen, 426–432, 430f, 458–459
Patients, 9, 1034
Patronizing language, using, 77–78,
78b
Pediculosis, 652, 652f
Pediculosis capitis, 652
Pediculosis corporis, 652
Pediculosis pubis, 652
Peer group, 310f, 311, 318
Pelvic cavity, 275, 275f
Pelvic tilt, 494
Penetrating wound, 463, 489
Penis, 297
Penrose drain, 478, 478f
Percussion hammer, 1039, 1039f
Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy
(PEG) tube, 601, 602f
Pericardium, 287–288
Pericare, 642
1146 Index

Perineal care, 323–324, 642–643, 643b,
648
Periodontal disease, 613
Periosteum, 277
Peripheral, 273b
Peripheral nervous system (PNS), 282,
282f, 284
Peripherally inserted central catheters
(PICC), 605
Peristalsis, 293, 731
Peri-wash, 643
Persecution, delusions of, 778
Persistent depressive disorder, 783
Persistent illness, 35
Persistent pain, 178
Personal attendant, 3
Personal beliefs, 54, 1059
Personal care, 4, 1047
Personal care services, 29
Personal factors influencing health, 53–54
Personal grooming, 651
Personal habits, bowel movement and, 732
Personal hygiene, 611–649, 612b–614b,
1053
Personal lifestyle choices, 53–54
Personal protective equipment (PPE), 441,
449, 449b, 459
Personal safety, 410–414, 414b–416b, 419
Personal space, 156–157, 157b
Personality, 173
Personality disorders, 796–798
Person-centered care, 16
Pertussis, 879t
Phagocytes, 300
Phantom limb pain, 179, 854
Pharmacist, 12t–13t
Pharynx, 291
Phenylketonuria (PKU), 889t–891t
Phlebitis, 867
Phobia, 784–785
Phobic disorder, 784–785
Phototherapy, 782
Physical abuse, 254, 258b–259b, 259–260,
269
sign of, 269
Physical changes in aging, 374–378, 375b,
380–381
Physical examination, 1038–1039,
1041–1042, 1041b–1042b, 1056
Physical functions, 857
Physical health, 49–50, 64, 564
Physical needs, 175, 1066–1067
Physical neglect, 260
Physical restraints, 396, 396f
Physician, 12t–13t
Physiotherapist (physical therapist),
12t–13t
Pica, 790
PICC. see Peripherally inserted central
catheters (PICC)
Pick’s disease, 812
Picture-frame dressing, 484
PIE charting, 218–220, 219b
Pigment, 276–277
Pillbox, 986–987, 986f, 1011
Pink eye, 362, 364
Pitting edema, 473, 866
Pituitary gland, 298–299
Pivot joint, 280
PKU. see Phenylketonuria (PKU)
Planning, 108–109, 109b, 203–206, 211,
1090–1091
Plantar flexion, 536, 539b
Plaques, 810
Plasma, 302
Platelets, 287
Play, 539b
Pleura, 292
Pleural effusion, 956
Pleural space, 955–956, 956f
Plugged duct, 325
PM care, 613
Pneumonia, 867–868
Pneumothorax, 956, 960
PNS. see Peripheral nervous system (PNS)
Podiatrist, 665b
Poisoning, 357–358, 359b, 367, 399, 399f,
418, 809
Policies, of employer, 11, 19
Polypharmacy, 990, 991b
Polyuria, 692t
Portability, 24b
Portable tub, 636, 636f
Portal of entry, 430f, 432, 444
Portal of exit, 430, 430f, 443
Portfolio, professional, 1082
Position restrictions, 1046
Positioning, 509–514, 531–532, 536, 933,
934b–935b, 1066–1067, 1074
Positive atmosphere, 88
Positive attitude, 14, 14b
Positive phrases, 911
Positive reinforcement, 363
Positive thinking, 106
Postanaesthesia care unit, 1045, 1046f
Posterior location, 196, 198
Postmortem care, 1070, 1071b–1072b,
1072f, 1074
Postoperative elimination, 1053, 1055
Postoperative fluids, 1053
Postoperative hair care, 1055
Postoperative nail care, 1055
Postoperative nutrition, 1053
Postoperative period, 1049–1053
Postoperative positioning, 1050, 1052b,
1056
Postpartum blues, depression, and
psychosis, 325–326, 326b
Postpartum period, 322, 323b
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD),
785–786, 786b
Postural drainage, 947, 947f
Postural hypotension, 535–536, 537b
Posture, 493, 493f
Potentially serious illness, in infants, signs
and symptoms of, 330–331, 331b,
347
Powders, 627, 648
Power of attorney, 138–139. see also
Substitute decision makers
Power struggles, 353
PPE. see Personal protective equipment
(PPE)
Preferences, 16, 351b, 566b, 568, 844b,
963b
Prefixes, 191–193, 198–199
Pregnancy, 577
Prejudice, 150–152
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder, 783
Preoperative activities, 1045
Preoperative checklist, 1047, 1048f
Preoperative elimination, 1046
Preoperative fluids, 1045–1046
Preoperative food, 1045
Preoperative medications, 1047–1049,
1049b, 1056
Preoperative nutrition, 1046
Preoperative oral hygiene, 1047b
Preoperative pain, 1046
Preoperative period, 1045–1049
Preoperative positioning, 1040–1041, 1041f
Preoperative teaching, 1045–1046
Presbycusis, 914
Presbyopia, 921
Preschool years, 308–310, 308f–310f,
317–318
Prescription label, 999f
Prescription (Rx) medications, 991
Pressure points, 465, 466f
Pressure ulcers, 465–473, 466f–467f,
469b–471b, 471f, 489–490
Preventing infection, 420–459
Primary care nurse, 13–14
Primary caregiver, 168, 169b, 305
Primary dementias, 810–812
Primary health care delivery, 25, 25f
Primary intention, 475
Primary prevention strategies, 56
Priorities, 203, 1077
Privacy, 16, 16f, 184b, 351b, 566b, 732,
844b, 963b, 1040b
Privacy act, 136
Privacy curtains, 177–178, 178f, 1037b,
1037f
Private insurance, 27
Probation, 1094
Problem solving, 17, 19, 88, 110–112,
112b, 116
Problems, managing of, 77, 100–116, 112b
Professional appearance, 14, 15b, 15f
Professional boundaries, 163–166, 164b
Professional communication, 69–70, 85
Professional development, and lifelong
learning, 11
Professional portfolio, 1082
Professional services, 29–30
Professionalism, 14–16, 19
Progesterone, 297
Prognosis, 57
Progress notes, 212, 214f, 219b
Projection, 79
Proliferative phase, 475

Pronation, 539b
Prone position, 512–513, 513f
Prostate gland, 296, 377
Prostheses, 561–563, 854–855, 854f
Protective measures, 448–454
Protein, 571, 597
Proteinaceous prions, 813
Provincial/territorial role, 25–26, 26t,
31–32
Proximal, 196, 198
Proxy, 138. see also Substitute decision
makers
Pseudo-dementia, 814
Psoriasis, 846f–847f, 848, 885
Psychiatric care services, 36
Psychiatric disorders. see Mental health
disorders
Psychiatrists, 774
Psychoanalysis, 774, 800
Psychological abuse, 254
Psychological care, 1044–1045, 1044b,
1056
Psychologists, 774
Psychosis, 778
Psychosocial health, 173–176, 188
Psychotherapists, 774
Psychotherapy, 774, 781
PTSD. see Post-traumatic stress disorder
(PTSD)
Puberty, 312, 318
Pubic hair, 661–662
Public administration, 24b
Pulmonary function tests, 945b
Pulse, 236–239, 237f, 237t
Pulse oximeter, 239, 239b, 239f, 944–945,
946f
Pulse oximetry, 944–946, 959
Pulse rate, 236–237, 237t, 251
Puncture wound, 463
Punishment, 361–362
Purulent drainage, 478, 478f
Pyelonephritis, 872
Q Renal calculi, 872
Quadriplegia, 862, 893
Quality assurance, in documentation, 212
Quaternary care, 25
R Repression, 79, 772
Racism, 149
Radial pulse, 237, 238b, 238f, 251
Radiating pain, 178, 179f, 189
Radiation therapy, 877
Random urine specimen, 714, 715b–716b,
715f, 729
Range-of-motion exercises, 538–539,
539b–544b, 541f–544f, 556
Rash, heat application and, 1031
Rationalization, 79
Razor bumps, 661–662, 661f
Reactive depression, 781
Reading, aids for, 922
Reagent strips, 721, 721b–722b, 721f
Receptive aphasia, 903, 910–911
Recipes, 582, 582t
Reconstructive surgery, 1043
Recording, in community, 220
Recording time, in documentation, 217
Records. see Charts
Recovery room, 1050
Recreational therapist, 12t–13t
Rectal suppositories, assisting with,
1002b–1003b
Rectal tubes, 739
Rectum, 294
Recycling, 979, 979f
Reduced cognitive capacity, older adults
with, 257b
Reduced income, 371–372
Reduction, 851
References, 1083, 1096
Referred pain, 178
Reflective practice review, 11
Reflex hammer, 1039, 1039f
Reflex incontinence, 700
Reflexes, 300, 306
Refugees, 775–776
Regional anaesthesia, 1049
Registered nurse (RN), 11–13, 12t–13t
Registered practical nurse (RPN), 12t–13t,
13
Registered psychiatric nurse (RPN),
12t–13t
Regression, 79
Regular beds, 750
Regulated workers, 10–11
Regulations, 131
Regurgitation, 603
Rehabilitation, 10
Rehabilitation care, 557–568, 559b, 566b
Rehabilitation services, 35
Reisberg Scale, 815
Relationships with clients, 163–168,
164b
Relaxation techniques, 183, 1090
Religion, 154–155, 578, 1059
Remission, 779
Renal failure, 872–873
Repetitive behaviours, 833
Reporting abuse, 264
Repositioning client, 495b, 532
Reproductive hormones, 299
Reproductive system, 296–298, 377–378
Research, in documentation, 212
Reservoir, 423, 429, 430f, 443
Resident, 9, 19
Residential facilities, 9, 37–40, 38f
Residents, 37
Resistance, 363
Resources, for job search, 1077b
Respect, 165, 171, 1066
Respiration, 207b–208b, 240–241,
240b–241b, 240t, 251, 291
Respiratory complications, postoperative,
1052b
Respiratory disorders, 867–869
Index 1147
Respiratory patterns, abnormal, 931–932,
932f
Respiratory protection, 448–449, 449f
Respiratory rates, 240t
Respiratory system, 291–292, 292f, 377,
381, 929f
Respiratory tests, 944, 945b
Respiratory therapist, 12t–13t
Respite care, 35, 45
Responsibilities, 14, 480b–483b
Rest, 183–186, 184b, 189, 1053
Rest periods, oxygen needs and, 933
Restlessness, 831–832
Restorative care, 563–565, 566b
Restorative care services, 35
Restraints, 388–399, 391b–395b, 395f,
417–418
Restrict fluids, 593
Resumé, 1077–1078, 1096–1097
Retention catheter, 702, 702f, 705b–706b,
729
Retina, 285
Retinal detachment, 920
Retirement, 370–371, 371f, 380
Retirement homes, 36, 39, 46
Retirement residences, 39–40, 39f
Reverse Trendelenburg position, of bed,
753, 753f
Reye’s syndrome, 358–360
Rheumatoid arthritis, 856–857, 856f,
857b
Right lower quadrant, 196f
Right to autonomy, 140, 140b, 141f
Right to die, 1059
Right to dignity/respect, 134–136, 135f,
136b, 146
Right to give/withhold informed consent,
137–140, 146
Right to privacy and confidentiality, 136,
137b, 137f
Right upper quadrant, 196f
Rights, 128–146, 131b. see also Bill of
Rights
Rights and Freedoms of all Canadians,
255b
“Rights” of assisting with medications,
997–999, 1012
Rigor mortis, 1071
RN. see Registered nurse (RN)
Role boundaries, 88
Rolling client, 498
Rolling versus log-rolling, in moving client,
498, 501b–502b, 501f–502f
Room furniture, 177–178
Room temperature, client comfort, 176
Rooting reflex, 306
Roots, 193–194, 199
Rotation, 539b
Route, of medication, 987, 988t–989t
Routine, change in, 57–59
Routine practices, 444
RPN. see Registered practical nurse (RPN)
Rubella, 433t–435t, 879t
Rubeola, 879t
1148 Index
S Sexuality, in older adults, 378, 378f, 379b
SAD. see Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
Saddle joint, 280
Safety, 16, 175, 184b, 351b, 367, 382–419,
566b, 568, 844b, 963b
Safety measures, at home and in workplace,
386–388, 387b
Safety precautions, in surgery, 1054b
Salivary glands, 293–294
Same-day surgery, 1043
Same-sex family, 154
Sanguineous drainage, 478, 478f
Sanitary pads, 647–648
Scabies, 845–848, 846f–847f
Scales, types of, 226f
Scarlet fever, 879t
Scheduled feedings, 602–603, 602f
Schizoid personality disorder, 797
Schizophrenia spectrum disorders, 778–779
School, 103
Sclera, 285
Scleroderma, 849, 885
Scope of practice, 11, 17, 19, 986–987
Scouring powders, 966
Screaming, 832, 839
Screens, client comfort, 177–178, 178f
Scrotum, 296
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), 782
Seborrheic keratosis, 846f–847f, 849
Secondary dementias, 812–814, 839
Secondary health care delivery, 25, 25f
Secondary intention, 475–476
Secondary sex characteristics, 312
Secured units, 830, 839
Security risks, personal, reduction of,
413–414
Seizures, 857, 893–894
Selective mutism, 785
Self-actualization, 176, 188
Self-awareness, 106, 166, 166b
Self-care devices, 563, 563f–564f
Self-determination, 123
Self-directed medication management, 984
Self-esteem, 167, 175–176
Self-image, change in, 60, 61b
Semen, 296
Semi-circular canals, 286
Semi-Fowler’s position, 510, 510f,
752–753, 753f–754f, 754b
Seminal vesicle, 296
Sense of control, 54
Sense organs, 284–286
Separation anxiety disorder, 785
Serosanguineous drainage, 478, 478f
Serous drainage, 478, 478f, 490
Services, home care, 29–30
Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS),
429
Sexism, 152
Sexual abuse, 254, 258b–259b, 260,
269
Sexual behaviours, 832, 833b
Sexual function, change in, 59–60
Sexual harassment, 254, 266–267
Sexually aggressive client, 265–266
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), 881,
882t, 885
Shaken baby syndrome, 860, 889t–891t
Shampoo trays, 657b, 657f
Shampooing, 655–657, 655b–656b, 656f,
658b–659b
Sharps, 446, 453, 453b, 459
Shaving, 659–662, 660b, 662b–664b, 663f,
686–687
Shearing, 464, 489, 496, 496b, 496f
Shingles, 845, 846f–847f
Shock, 418
Short of breath (SOB), 929
Short of breath on exertion (SOBOE), 929
Shower chair, 521b–522b, 521f
Showers, 635b, 636–637, 637b–639b, 637f,
648
Side effect, of medications, 995
Side of bed, moving client in, 505–506,
506b–509b, 507f–509f, 532
SIDS. see Sudden infant death syndrome
(SIDS)
Sign language, 917, 918f
Signalling devices, 917
Signs, 207
Silence, 73, 73b, 157–158
Simple face mask, 941, 941f
Simple medication math, 996, 996b
Sims’ position, 512, 512f, 532, 1041,
1041f
Single-parent families, 154
Sitting position, 513–514, 513f–514f
Sit-to-stand mechanical lift, 528, 528f,
529b–530b
Sitz bath, 1020–1022, 1023b–1024b, 1032
Sitz tub, 1022, 1022f
Skeletal muscles, 280–281, 301
Skeletal traction, 851, 852f
Skin, 207b–208b, 277, 374, 380
Skin breakdown, 462b, 489
Skin cancer, 849–850, 849f
Skin care, 855, 1067
Skin care products, 627t
Skin preparation, 1047
Skin tag, 846f–847f, 848
Skin tears, 463–465, 464b–465b, 490
Skin traction, 851
Skin-picking disorder, 787
Slander, 143
Sleep, 183–186, 184t, 185b, 187b, 347
Sleep deprivation, symptoms of, 186,
186b
Sleep disorders, 185–186, 186b
Sleep–wake disorders, 790–791, 801
Sleepwalking, 186
Slider board, 503
Sliders, 497–498, 498f
Sliding pad, 497, 755
Slipper pan, 691–692, 693f
Slow movement, 860
Small intestine, 294, 302
SMART goals, setting of, 108, 116
Smell, 286, 384
SMI. see Sustained maximal inspiration
(SMI)
Smoking, in COPD, 885
Smooth muscles, 281
SOAP charting, 218, 219b
Soaps, 627, 649
SOB. see Short of breath (SOB)
SOBOE. see Short of breath on exertion
(SOBOE)
Social anxiety disorder, 785
Social changes, with aging, 370–373
Social health, 50–51, 50f, 564
Social media, 69, 69f
Social networking sites, 1088
Social reintegration, 3–4
Social relationships, 54, 372, 372b, 373f
Social support system, 3–4, 50–51, 65
Social worker, 12t–13t
Socialization therapy, and activities, for
clients with dementia, 825
Socially isolated older adults, 257b
Sodium-controlled diet, 583, 585t–586t
Solicited letter of application, 1083, 1084f,
1096
Solitary play, 306–307
Sore, in cancer, 885
Sore throat, 364
Spastic cerebral palsy, 893, 900
Special care, 10
Special care homes, 42
Special diets, 583–587, 585t–586t
Special orders, for fluid intake, 593
Special telephone systems, 917
Special tests, preoperative, 1046
Specific immunity, 300
Speech, in dying patient, 1067
Speech and language disorders, 902–911,
907b, 909b
Speech–language pathologist, 12t–13t,
905
Sperm, 296
Sphygmomanometer, 243–244, 243f,
246b–247b
Spina bifida, 894–895, 895f, 901
Spinal cavity, 275, 275f
Spinal cord, 282, 282f
Spinal cord injuries, 862, 862f, 885
Spiritual advisor, 12t–13t
Spiritual health, 51, 51b, 51f, 188–189,
564
Spirometer, 937, 937f
Spleen, 291
Splints, 536, 538f
Sponges, 966
Spousal abuse, 256–257, 269
Spurs, 856
Sputum specimens, collecting, 946–947,
947b–949b, 948f, 959
Squamous cell carcinoma, 850
Square symbol, laundry and, 974
Stains, removing, 978, 978b
Standard practices, 444–445, 445b–446b,
459

Staphylococcus, 848, 852–853
Stasis ulcers, 473, 490
Stem cell transplantation, 878
Stereotype, 151, 161
Sterile dressings, 479
Sterile field, 455, 457f, 459
Sterilization, 435, 442, 442b, 459
Steri-strip, 464
Stethoscope, 244–245, 244f–245f,
246b–247b
Stiff muscles, 860
Stigma, 60, 774–775
Stimulating circulation, 1050–1052
STIs. see Sexually transmitted infections
(STIs)
Stoma, 724, 739–740, 740f, 747
Stomach, digestion and, 294
Stomach flu, 364, 367
Stool, 294, 640, 731
Stool specimens, 744, 744b–746b, 745f
Stool testing, for blood, 744
Stooped posture, 860
Straight catheter, 702
Straining urine, 722, 722b–723b, 723f,
729
Strep throat, 362
Streptococcus, 364, 848
Stress, 54, 100–116, 102t, 104b, 262
Stress incontinence, 700
Stress responses, 103, 104b–105b
Stress trigger, 262–263
Stressors, 101, 115
Stretcher, 503, 503b–505b, 505f
Stride stance, 494
Stroke, 858–860, 859b, 859f, 885
Subacute care, 35, 45
Subcutaneous infusion therapy, 606–607,
607f
Subcutaneous needle, 607f
Subjective data, 207–209, 222
Submissiveness, 79
Substance abuse, 257b, 792, 796
Substance-induced persisting dementias,
813
Substance/medication-induced depressive
disorder, 783
Substance/medication-induced obsessive–
compulsive and related disorders, 787
Substance-related disorders, 795–796, 802
Substitute decision makers, 138–139
Sucking reflex, 306, 318
Suctioning airway, 952–953, 953b–954b,
954f, 959
Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS),
329b
Suffixes, 194–195, 198–199
Suffocation, prevention of, 402–403, 402b
Suicidal behaviour disorder, 791–793
Suicidal intent, 783, 784b, 792–793
Suicide, 791, 792b
Summary reports, 214
Sundowning, 830–831, 839–840
Superficial location, 273b
Superior location, 273b
Index 1149
Supervision, 11–14, 86–99 TB. see Tuberculosis (TB)
Supervisor, 11, 92, 171, 410–411, 979, Team, 10, 87
1012 Team leader, 91
Supervisor’s viewpoint, 17 Team meeting, contributions to, 89b
Supination, 539b Teamwork, 86–99, 91b
Supine position, 511, 511f, 532, 1040, Teaspoon, in feeding clients, 591f
1041f Teenagers, 313, 313f, 350–351
Supplementary services, in Canadian health Teeth, 293–294
care system, 26–30 Telehealth, 25
Supplier, duties of, under WHMIS, Temperature, water, 629f, 637
411–413 Temperature ranges, heat and cold, 1018t,
Supplies, 966 1032
Support worker grief, 1062b Temperature sites, 230–232
Support workers, 1–19, 3f, 5b–9b, 10f, Temperature-sensitive tape, 236, 236f
12t–13t, 321, 532, 1035, 1035f, 1099, Temporary hearing loss, 914
1099t Tendons, 281
Supportive housing facilities, 36–39 Tension-building phase, 254
Supportive role, with young people, 351, Tensor bandage, 1026b
366–367 Terminology, in charts, 217
Supportiveness, 261 Terms of employment, 1094
Suppositories, 736, 988f, 988t–989t Tertiary health care delivery, 25, 25f
Suppression, 79 Tertiary intention, 476
Suprapubic catheter, 702 Testes (testicles), 296, 302
Surface, cleaning, 981 Testosterone, 296
Surgeon, 1043 Tetany, 299
Surgery, 877, 1043–1053, 1046b Thank-you note, 1092, 1093f
Surgical asepsis, 435, 456b, 457f Theories of grief, 1061–1063, 1063t
Surgical clients, 9 Thermometers, 233f–234f, 234–236
Susceptible host, 430f, 432, 444 Thoracentesis, 945b
Suspected child abuse, 264 Thoracic cavity, 275, 275f
Suspensions, medications and, 988t–989t Thoracotomy, 199
Sustained maximal inspiration (SMI), 937 Thrombus, 867, 1050–1051, 1051f
Swaddling, 326–328, 327f Thrush, 330, 330f
Swallowing problems, 587–588 Thymus gland, 291
Sweat glands, 277 Thyroid gland, 299
Symbols, list of abbreviations and, never be Thyroid hormone, 299
used in Canada, 192t Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), 299
Sympathetic nervous system, 284 Thyroxin (T4), 299
Sympathy, 165 TIA. see Transient ischemic attack (TIA)
Symphysis pubis, 297 Time management, 100–116, 108b,
Symptoms, 207–209 934b–935b
Synapse, 283 Tissues, 274–275
Synovial fluid, 279, 279f To and from toilet seat transfer, 523b–524b,
Synovial membrane, 279 523f, 532
Syphilis, 882t Toddlerhood, 307–308, 307f, 318
Syrups, medications and, 988t–989t Toenail, 665b
Systemic effect, of medications, 991 Toilet brush, 966
Systemic infection, 426 Toilet seat, 523b–524b
Systole, 241, 289 Toilet training, 307
Systolic pressure, 241, 251 Tongue, 286
Tonic–clonic seizures, 894
T Tonsil suction, 954f
T lymphocytes (T cells), 300 Tonsils, 291
Tablets, medications and, 988f, 988t–989t Topical effect, of medications, 991
Tachycardia, 237 Topical medication, 988t–989t
Tachypnea, 932, 932f Tort, 140
Tangles, 810 Touch, 72–73, 73b, 156, 156f, 384, 1066
Tape, 484, 484f, 490 Towel baths, 633
Tarry stools, 731–732, 748 Toxic shock syndrome (TSS), 323
Tartar, 613 Trachea, 291
Task, 80–81, 82b, 92, 96b, 97 Tracheostomies, 950–952, 951f–952f, 952b,
Task sheets, 214, 216f 959
Taste, 286, 384 Tracheostomy tube, 949, 950f
Taste buds, 293–294 Traction, 851
1150 Index

Trade name, of drug, 992 Up in bed, moving client, 496–497, 497f, Ventricles, 288
Transdermal discs, 988f, 988t–989t, 499b–500b Venturi mask, 942, 942f
1007b–1008b, 1007f Upper respiratory infections (URIs), Venules, 289–290
Transfer, 515b, 517b 363–364 Verbal communication, 70–71
Transfer belt, 516, 516b–517b, 516f, 532 Ureterostomy, 724, 724f, 729 Verbal reporting, 209–210, 211b
Transfer boards, 518, 565f, 637f Ureterostomy pouch, 724b–726b, 726f Villi, 294
Transfer of function. see also Delegation Ureters, 296 Viruses, 423
Transfer sheet, 755 Urethra, 296 Vision, 384, 1067
Transferring clients, 514–521, 531 Urge incontinence, 700 Vision aids, 921–922
Transfers, 1037–1038, 1055 Urgent surgery, 1043 Vision disorders, 912–926
Transgender, 152, 152b Urinals, 696–697, 696f, 697b–698b, 728 Vision impairment, 914b, 918–925
Transient caregivers, 260 Urinary disorders, 871–873 Vision loss, 588, 589f, 923–926, 923b–
Transient ischemic attack (TIA), 811, Urinary elimination, 688–729, 692t 924b, 924f
858–859 Urinary frequency, 692t Vital signs, 225, 229–230, 250
Transitions, supporting during, 1034–1038 Urinary incontinence, 692t, 700–702, Vitamins, 571, 572t
Translators, use of, 155, 156b 701b, 729 Voiding, 690
Transmission-based practices, 445–448, Urinary system, 294–296, 295f, 377, 381 Voluntary muscles, 283
446b–448b, 459, 690b Urinary tract infections (UTIs), 693b, Vomiting, 869, 885
Transplant, 1044 871–872 Vomitus, 869
Transporting clients, on transmission-based Urinary urgency, 692t VRE. see Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus
practices, 454 Urination, 640, 689–698, 728–729 (VRE)
Trapeze, 497, 497f, 536–538, 538f Urine, 296, 722, 722b–723b, 723f, 729 Vulnerability, 262
Trauma/stressor-related disorders, 785–786 Urine specimen collection, 714–719, Vulva, 297
Traumatic brain injury, 776–777 714b–715b, 719b–720b, 719f
Tremors, 860 Urine stains, removing, 978b W
Trendelenburg position, of bed, 753, 753f, Urine testing, 720–722 Walkers, 551–553, 552f–553f, 554b,
766 URIs. see Upper respiratory infections 556
Trends, health care, 27–30, 32 (URIs) Walking aids, 550–553
Triangle symbol, laundry and, 974 Urticaria, 845, 846f–847f, 885 Walking belt, 516, 516f
Trichotillomania (hair pulling) disorder, 787 Uterus, 297 Wall oxygen outlet, 938, 939f
Trochanter rolls, 536, 538f, 555 Utility gloves, 966, 982 Wandering, 829–830, 829f–830f, 840
TSH. see Thyroid-stimulating hormone UTIs. see Urinary tract infections (UTIs) Warm compresses, 1017–1018, 1019b–
(TSH) 1020b, 1019f, 1032
TSS. see Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) V Warm packs, 1022–1024, 1025b–1026b,
Tub baths, 635–636, 635b, 638b–639b, Vaccinations, 364–365, 432, 433t–435t 1025f
638f, 648 Vacuum cleaner, 966 Warm soaks, 1020, 1020f, 1021b, 1022f
Tube feeding, 609 Vagina, 297 Washtub symbol, laundry and, 974
Tuberculosis (TB), 432, 881–882 Vaginal speculum, 1039, 1039f Water, 572
Tumour, 876, 876f Validate, 105 Waterless, alcohol-based hand rubs, 436,
Tuning fork, 1039, 1039f Validation therapy, 828, 828b–829b 439b
Tunnel vision, 921 Valuables, 1047 Weakness, 588
Turning client, 502–503 Values, 118, 119b Weighing, of infants, 345, 345b–346b,
Turning pads and sliders, for moving client, Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE), 345f
497–498, 497f–498f, 531 424–426, 433t–435t Weight measurement, 225–226, 226b–
Tympanic temperature, 232b, 233f, 250 Vapour-permeable transparent adhesive 228b, 226f, 250–251
Type 1 diabetes, 874 film, 479 Wellness, 47–65
Type 2 diabetes, 874 Varicella, 879t Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome (WKS),
Vas deferens, 296 813–814
U Vascular dementia, 811, 840 Western medicine, 27
Umbilical cord, care of, 339–340, 339f– Vascular ulcers, 473–475 Wheal, 845
340f, 348 Vector, 430 Wheat bags, 1018b
Umbilical cord blood transplantation, 878 Vectorborne transmission, 430t–431t, Wheelchair, 514, 515f, 517–518,
Unaffected side, 515 431f 518b–520b, 519f–520f
Unconscious client, mouth care for, Vector transmission, 878 Wheelchair to shower transfer,
620–621, 621b–622b, 649 Vegetables, 575 521b–522b
Underarms, shaving of, 661 Vehicle transmission, 430t–431t, 431f, 878 Whirlpool tubs, 636, 636f
Undressing clients, 669b–672b, Veins, 289, 289f White blood cells, 287
670f–672f Velcro collar, 952 White vinegar, 966
Unethical, 118 Venereal warts, 882t WHMIS labels, components of, 413,
Unintentional wound, 463 Venous ulcers, 473–475, 474b, 474f 413f–414f, 418
Universality, 24b Ventilation, client comfort, 176 Whole person, 49
Unregulated workers, 10–11 Ventilator, 954, 960 Whooping cough, 879t
Unsolicited letter of application, 1083, Ventral cavity, 275 Wigs, 684, 687
1085f Ventral location, 195 Will, 139

WKS. see Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome
(WKS)
Word elements, 191–195, 198
Worden’s four tasks of mourning, 1063,
1063t
Work life, change in, 59, 59b
Worker, duty of, under WHMIS, 413
Workers’ compensation legislation, 144
Workplace, safe, 410–411
Workplace bullying, 267, 267b
Workplace etiquette, 69–70
Workplace Hazardous Materials
Information System (WHMIS), 143,
411, 419
Workplace settings, 33–46, 44b
Workplace violence, 413–414
Index 1151
Wound drainage, 477–478, 478f
Wound healing, 1053
Wounds, 460–490, 463b, 477b, 480b–483b
Y
Yankauer suction catheter, 954f
Young, caring for, 349–367
Young adulthood, 314–315, 314f, 319, 577
Procedures
Chapter 15 Measuring Height, Weight, and
Vital Signs
Measuring Height and Weight, 226
Measuring Height: The Client in Bed, 228
Taking Temperature With an Electronic
Thermometer, 232
Taking the Radial Pulse, 238
Measuring the Pulse and Oxygen Concentration
Using a Pulse Oximeter, 239
Counting Respirations, 240
Measuring Blood Pressure Using a Stethoscope and
Sphygmomanometer, 246
Measuring Blood Pressure Using an Electronic
Blood Pressure Machine, 248
Chapter 19 Caring for Mothers and Infants
Cleaning Bottle-Feeding Equipment, 333
Diapering the Baby, 337
Giving the Baby a Sponge Bath, 342
Giving the Baby a Tub Bath, 344
Weighing the Baby, 345
Chapter 23 Preventing Infection
Handwashing, 436
Using Waterless Alcohol-Based Hand Rubs, 439
Removing Gloves, 440
Wearing a Mask, 450
Donning and Removing a Gown, 451
Chapter 24 Skin Care and Prevention of
Wounds
Applying a Dry Nonsterile Dressing, 486
Chapter 25 Body Mechanics: Moving,
Positioning, Transferring, and Lifting the
Client
Moving the Client Up in Bed, 499
Log-Rolling the Client, 501
1152
Moving the Client From a Bed to a Stretcher, 503
Moving the Client to the Side of the Bed, 506
Helping the Client Sit on the Side of the Bed
(Dangle the Legs), 508
Applying a Transfer Belt, 516
Transferring the Client to a Chair or
Wheelchair, 518
Transferring the Client From a Wheelchair to a
Shower, Commode, or Bath Chair, 521
Transferring the Client to and From the Toilet
Seat, 523
Using a Mechanical Lift to Move a Client, 525
Using a Sit-to-Stand Mechanical Lift to Move a
Client From a Chair to a Commode, 529
Chapter 26 Exercise and Activity
Performing Range-of-Motion Exercises, 540
Helping the Client to Walk, 546
Helping the Falling Client, 548
Chapter 28 Nutrition and Fluids
Assisting a Client to Eat Meals From a Food
Tray, 590
Assisting the Client With Eating, 592
Measuring Intake and Output, 596
Chapter 30 Personal Hygiene
Brushing the Client’s Teeth, 615
Assisting the Client to Brush Teeth at the
Bedside, 618
Flossing the Client’s Teeth, 619
Providing Mouth Care to an Unconscious
Client, 621
Providing Denture Care, 623
Giving a Complete Bed Bath, 628
Giving a Partial Bath, 633
Assisting With a Tub Bath or Shower, 638
Giving a Back Massage, 641
Giving Perineal Care to a Female Client, 643
Giving Perineal Care to a Male Client, 646
Chapter 31 Grooming and Dressing
Shampooing a Client’s Hair in Bed, 658
Shaving a Client, 662
Providing Nail and Foot Care, 665
Undressing a Client, 669
Changing an Incontinence Brief, 672
Dressing a Client, 675
Changing the Gown of a Client With Intravenous
Tubing, 678
Applying Anti-Embolic Stockings, 680
Applying Elastic Bandages, 682
Chapter 32 Urinary Elimination
Giving the Bedpan, 694
Providing a Urinal to a Male Client, 697
Helping the Client to the Commode, 698
Giving Catheter Care, 703
Changing a Drainage Bag to a Leg Bag, 706
Emptying a Urinary Drainage Bag, 709
Removing and Applying a Condom Catheter, 710
Collecting a Random Urine Specimen, 715
Collecting a Midstream Specimen, 717
Collecting a Urine Specimen From an Infant or
Child, 719
Testing Urine With Reagent Strips, 721
Straining Urine, 722
Changing a Ureterostomy Pouch, 724
Chapter 33 Bowel Elimination
Giving a Commercial Enema to an Adult, 737
Changing an Ostomy Pouch, 742
Collecting a Stool Specimen, 744
Chapter 34 Beds and Bed Making
Making a Closed Bed, 758
Making an Open Bed, 762
Making an Occupied Bed, 762
Chapter 41 Oxygen Needs
Assisting With Coughing and Deep-Breathing
Exercises, 935
Setting Up for Oxygen Administration, 943
Collecting a Sputum Specimen, 948
Chapter 43 Assisting With Medications
Assisting With Oral Medications, 1000
Assisting With Rectal Suppositories or
Enemas, 1002
Assisting With Eye Medications or
Ointments, 1004
Assisting With Ear Drops, 1005
Assisting With Transdermal Discs, 1007
Assisting With Metered Dose Inhalers, 1008
Assisting With Metered Dose Inhalers With a
Holding Chamber, 1009
Chapter 44 Heat and Cold Applications
Applying Warm Compresses, 1019
The Warm Soak, 1021
Assisting the Client to Take a Sitz Bath, 1023
Applying a Warm Pack, 1025
Applying an Ice Bag, Ice Collar, or Dry Cold
Pack, 1027
Applying Cold Compresses, 1029
Chapter 45 Working in Acute Care
Preparing the Client for an Examination, 1042
Chapter 46 End-of-Life Care
Assisting With Postmortem Care, 1071
Mosby’s Canadian Textbook for the Support Worker, Fourth Canadian Edition Sorrentino, Remmert, Wilk
VITAL SIGNS
Normal Body Temperatures
Site Baseline Normal Range
Oral 37.0° C (98.6° F) 36.5° to 37.5° C (97.6° to 99.6° F)
Rectal 37.5° C (99.6° F) 37.0° to 38.1° C (98.6° to 100.6° F)
Axillary 36.5° C (97.6° F) 35.9° to 37.0° C (96.6° to 98.6° F)
Tympanic membrane 37.0° C (98.6° F) 37.0° C (98.6° F)

Pulse Signs of Infection That Need to Be Reported

Normal range (adult)—60–100 beats/minute Localized Infection
• Increased pain around affected part
Respirations • Swelling around affected part
Normal range (adult)—12–20 breaths/minute • Warmth around affected part
• Fever*
Blood Pressure
• Drainage of pus from injured area
Normal:
Urinary Tract or Other Infection
• Systolic pressure—90 mm Hg or higher but lower than 120 mm Hg
• Agitation
• Diastolic pressure—60 mm Hg or higher but lower than 80 mm Hg
• Disorientation or delirium
Abnormal: • Hallucinations
• Hypertension—140/90 mm Hg or higher • Falling
• Hypotension—Lower than 90/60 mm Hg • Fever*
*Note: Older adults may not be able to mount a response to infection (i.e. fever) due to the effects of aging. Observe for other signs of infections
and report them immediately.
Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Inc.

Mosby’s Canadian Textbook for the Support Worker, Fourth Canadian Edition Sorrentino, Remmert, Wilk
POSITIONING

45–90
degrees
30–45
15–30 degrees
degrees

Low Fowler’s position. The head of the bed Semi-Fowler’s position. The head of the bed High Fowler’s position. The head of the bed
is raised 15 to 30 degrees. is raised 30 to 45 degrees. is raised 45 to 90 degrees.

Supine position. The back-lying or dorsal recumbent position. Prone position. Lying on the abdomen with the head turned to
one side.

Sims’ position. A left-side-lying position in which the upper leg (right

leg) is sharply flexed so it is not on the lower leg (left leg); sem-
Lateral position. The person lies on one side or the other;
iprone side position.
side-lying position.
Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Inc.  9996120074
 5 4 3 2 1 inches

MEASUREMENT CONVERSIONS
1 ounce (oz) = 30 millilitres (mL)
1 cup = 240 mL
1 litre (L) = 1000 mL
1 foot (ft) = 12 inches (in)
1 minute (min) = 60 seconds (sec)
1 kilogram (kg) = 2.2 pounds (lb)

RANGE-OF-MOTION (ROM) DEFINITIONS

Abduction—moving a body part away from the midline of the body
Adduction—moving a body part toward the midline of the body
Flexion—bending a body part
Extension—straightening a body part
Hyperextension—excessive straightening of a body part
Dorsiflexion—bending the toes and foot up at the ankle
Plantar flexion—bending the foot down at the ankle
Rotation—turning the joint
Internal rotation—turning the joint inward
External rotation—turning the joint outward
Pronation—turning the joint downward
Supination—turning the joint upward

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15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 cm

ABBREVIATIONS 24-HOUR CLOCK

• AC; a.c.—before meals
• ad lib—as desired
AM PM
• c —with
• s —without Conventional 24-Hour Conventional 24-Hour
Time Time Time Time
• C/O; c/o—complains of
• h; hr—hour 1:00 AM 0100 h 1:00 PM 1300 h
• Lt ; L —left 2:00 AM 0200 h 2:00 PM 1400 h
3:00 AM 0300 h 3:00 PM 1500 h
• mL—millilitre
4:00 AM 0400 h 4:00 PM 1600 h
• NPO—nothing by mouth (non per os)
5:00 AM 0500 h 5:00 PM 1700 h
• PC; p.c.—after meals 6:00 AM 0600 h 6:00 PM 1800 h
• PO; po—by mouth; orally 7:00 AM 0700 h 7:00 PM 1900 h
• prn—when necessary 8:00 AM 0800 h 8:00 PM 2000 h
• q—every 9:00 AM 0900 h 9:00 PM 2100 h
• qh—every hour 10:00 AM 1000 h 10:00 PM 2200 h
• q2h, q3h, etc.—every 2 hours, every 3 hours, and so on 11:00 AM 1100 h 11:00 PM 2300 h
• R—rectal temperature, respiration 12:00 NOON 1200 h 12:00 MIDNIGHT 2400 or 0000 h
• Rt ; R —right
• ROM—range-of-motion
• SOB—shortness of breath

Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Inc.