Patient Care Technician

Module 3

AHRQ

Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality

Advance directives

A legal document that expresses medical wishes in advance, mainly if one cannot communicate them directly.

Abuse

any action that can potentially cause harm to another person. 

Neglect

the failure to deliver care that individuals need to maintain health and safety and meet basic human needs. 

Exploitation

taking advantage of a vulnerable individual for the abuser's gain. 

Physical Abuse

Intentionally causing harm that is physical in nature 

Financial Abuse

Spending a person's money, using their assets for reasons other than their well-being, or stealing their possessions

Psychological or Emotional Abuse

​​​​​​​Intentionally inflicting mental harm through insults, bullying, verbal assaults, ridicule, intimidation, ignoring, belittling, involuntary isolation, or threats 

Sexual Abuse

Imposing nonconsensual sexual activity or making sexually suggestive comments 

Abuse With Regard to Basic Rights

Violating fundamental rights protected by state and federal laws, such as the rights to privacy, freedom of speech, expression, and worship

living will

Part of an advance directive. It outlines personal preferences for medical treatment and interventions if one is terminally ill, seriously injured, in a coma, or the late stages of dementia. It guides doctors and caregivers on how to proceed with care when one cannot express their wishes.

durable power of attorney

Part of an advance directive that designates a trusted person as a healthcare agent if a patient cannot make healthcare decisions.

A patient is deemed incapable of making health decisions if they are unable to demonstrate these four essential capacities.

Understanding, Appreciation, Reasoning, Express a choice

cultural awareness

Being aware, observant, and conscious of the similarities and differences among and between cultural groups. It is about understanding that various cultures have distinct beliefs, values, experiences, and customs.

cultural competence

Ability to work and interact effectively across cultures while acknowledging and respecting the other person's culture.

cultural diversity

Encompasses the shared language, beliefs, values, norms, behaviors, and material objects passed down from generation to generation. It recognizes and respects cultural differences and encourages mutual understanding and appreciation.

implicit bias

an unconscious association, belief, or value judgment towards any social group.

explicit bias

a conscious preference or aversion towards a person or group.