HOSA Career Development Chapters 21-24

Job-Seeking Skills

• Finding the right job requires preparation, persistence, and an understanding of the employment process.

• Key skills include researching opportunities, crafting tailored application materials, and preparing for interviews.

1. Sources of Job Information:

• Online Job Boards: Websites like Indeed, Monster, and LinkedIn.

• Networking: Connections through professional organizations, mentors, and peers.

• Career Fairs: Opportunities to meet multiple employers in one setting.

• Healthcare Facilities: Visit hospital and clinic websites for open positions.

1. Identifying Potential Employers:

• Research company missions, values, and culture.

• Target employers that align with personal career goals.

1. Job Shadowing and Internships:

• Gain insight into workplace dynamics and specific roles.

• Build relationships that may lead to job opportunities.

1. Online Presence:

• Maintain a professional profile on LinkedIn.

• Remove inappropriate content from social media platforms.

1. Personal Branding:

• Develop a consistent narrative about your skills, experiences, and goals.

• Use networking events and applications to present your unique strengths.

1. Resume Development:

• Tailor each resume to the specific job description.

• Highlight achievements with measurable results (e.g., "Reduced patient wait times by 20%").

• Keep formatting clean and use professional fonts.

1. Writing a Cover Letter:

• Personalize the letter for the position and employer.

• Use the structure:

  • Introduction: State interest in the role and how you discovered it.

  • Body: Highlight relevant experiences and skills.

Conclusion: Express enthusiasm and request an interview.

1. Submitting Applications:

• Follow employer instructions precisely (e.g., submitting documents in specific formats).

• Double-check for errors or omissions before submission.

1. Preparing for Common Questions:

• Examples:

  • "Tell me about yourself."

  • "Why do you want to work here?"

  • "What are your strengths and weaknesses?"

• Use the STAR method for behavioral questions:

  • S: Situation.

  • T: Task.

  • A: Action.

  • R: Result.

1. Practicing Interview Skills:

• Conduct mock interviews with friends, mentors, or career services.

• Focus on clear, confident communication

1. Interview Etiquette:

• Arrive 10-15 minutes early.

• Dress professionally and maintain good posture.

• Express gratitude at the end of the interview.

1. Follow-Up Communication:

• Send a thank-you email or letter within 24 hours.

• Reiterate interest in the position and highlight a key takeaway from the interview.

1. Handling Rejection:

• Request feedback to identify areas for improvement.

• Stay motivated and continue applying to other opportunities.

1. Attending Networking Events:

• Join career fairs, industry conferences, and alumni gatherings.

• Prepare an "elevator pitch" to introduce yourself succinctly

1. Leveraging Professional Organizations:

• Participate in associations relevant to your field (e.g., American Nurses Association).

• Access resources like job boards, mentorship programs, and professional development workshops.

1. Maintaining Relationships:

• Stay in touch with colleagues, mentors, and peers through periodic check-ins.

• Offer assistance and share opportunities when possible.

1. Evaluating Offers:

• Consider salary, benefits, work-life balance, and growth opportunities.

• Compare offers against long-term career goals.

1. Negotiating Terms:

• Research industry standards for compensation.

• Approach negotiations professionally and confidently.

1. Accepting or Declining Offers:

• Respond promptly and respectfully.

• Express appreciation for the opportunity, regardless of the decision

 Safety and Cleanliness in Health Care

• A safe and clean environment is essential for preventing infections, promoting health, and ensuring patient comfort.

• Health care workers play a critical role in maintaining cleanliness and adhering to safety standards.

1. Standard Precautions:

• Assume all patients may carry infectious agents.

• Consistently use personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, masks, and gowns.

Cleaning

• Removal of visible dirt and debris.

Disinfection

Eliminates most pathogens on surfaces.

Sterilization

•  Destroys all microorganisms, including spores, often using autoclaves.

1. Environmental Cleaning:

• Use EPA-approved disinfectants for high-touch surfaces (e.g., bed rails, doorknobs).

• Regularly clean patient rooms, bathrooms, and common areas.

1. Handling Linen:

• Wear gloves when handling soiled linen.

• Transport soiled linen in covered, leak-proof bags.

• Avoid shaking linen to prevent the spread of airborne contaminants.

1. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS):

• Provide critical information about chemicals used in the workplace.

• Include instructions for safe handling, storage, and first aid measures.

1. Hazardous Waste Disposal:

• Separate hazardous waste, such as sharps and biohazards, from general waste.

• Use designated, clearly labeled containers for disposal.

1. Spill Management:

• Contain and clean spills immediately using appropriate materials.

• Follow facility protocols for chemical or biohazard spills.

1. Preventing Falls:

• Keep pathways clear of clutter and ensure adequate lighting.

• Use nonslip mats and footwear.

• Assist patients with mobility aids as needed.

1. Bed Safety:

• Keep bed rails up when necessary.

• Ensure call lights are within the patient’s reach.

• Adjust bed height appropriately for transfers and care.

1. Equipment Safety:

• Regularly inspect and maintain medical equipment.

• Report and remove malfunctioning devices immediately.

1. Temperature and Ventilation:

• Maintain a comfortable temperature (usually 68–74°F).

• Ensure proper ventilation to reduce odors and improve air quality

1. Noise Control:

• Minimize unnecessary noise to promote a calming environment.

• Use quiet voices and limit loud equipment usage near patient areas.

1. Lighting:

• Provide adequate lighting for patient care and safety.

• Adjust lighting to the patient’s preference during rest periods.

1. Disaster Preparedness:

• Participate in facility disaster drills for events such as natural disasters or mass casualties.

• Know evacuation routes and protocols.

1. Incident Reporting:

• Report all accidents, injuries, or unsafe conditions immediately.

• Complete incident reports accurately and promptly.

1. Body Mechanics:

• Use proper techniques when lifting or transferring patients to avoid injury.

• Bend at the knees, not the waist, and keep objects close to the body.

1. Preventing Workplace Injuries:

• Take regular breaks to avoid fatigue.

• Use assistive devices such as lifts or transfer belts when necessary.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

• Ensure proper fit and use of gloves, masks, gowns, and eye protection.

• Dispose of PPE appropriately after use.

Nutrition

• Nutrition is the process by which the body takes in and utilizes food for growth, repair, and maintenance of health.

• A balanced diet provides essential nutrients to support physical and mental well-being.

Basic Nutrients

Carbs, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, water

Carbohydrates

• Primary source of energy.

• Found in foods like bread, rice, pasta, fruits, and vegetables.

• Types:

  • Simple carbohydrates: Sugars (e.g., glucose, fructose).

  • Complex carbohydrates: Starches and fibers.

Proteins

• Essential for growth, repair, and maintenance of tissues.

• Composed of amino acids.

• Sources include meat, fish, eggs, dairy, beans, and nuts.

Fats

• Provide concentrated energy and help absorb fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K).

• Types:

  • Saturated fats: Found in animal products and some plant oils.

  • Unsaturated fats: Found in fish, nuts, and vegetable oils (healthier option).

  • Trans fats: Avoid due to their link to heart disease.

Vitamins

• Regulate body processes and are essential for metabolism.

• Types:

  • Fat-soluble: A, D, E, K.

  • Water-soluble: C and B-complex vitamins.

Minerals

• Inorganic substances that regulate body functions and build tissues.

• Examples:

  • Calcium: Bone health.

  • Iron: Hemoglobin production.

  • Potassium: Muscle function and fluid balance.

Water

• Vital for all body functions, including digestion, temperature regulation, and waste removal.

• Recommended intake: About 8-10 cups per day, depending on activity level and environment.

1. Caloric Needs:

• Depend on age, gender, activity level, and overall health.

• Average adult needs 2,000-2,500 calories per day.

1. Energy Balance:

• Calories consumed should equal calories burned to maintain weight.

• Positive balance (excess calories) leads to weight gain; negative balance (calorie deficit) leads to weight loss.

1. Regular Diet:

• Balanced diet without restrictions.

1. Therapeutic Diets:

• Clear Liquid Diet:

  • Includes clear liquids like broth, tea, and gelatin.

  • Used post-surgery or during illness.

• Full Liquid Diet:

• Includes clear and opaque liquids like milk and custards.

• Soft Diet:

Foods easy to chew and digest, such as mashed potatoes and cooked vegetables

• Low-Sodium Diet:

• Restricts salt intake to manage hypertension or kidney disease.

• Diabetic Diet:

• Controls carbohydrate intake to manage blood sugar levels.

• Low-Cholesterol Diet:

• Limits saturated fats to reduce heart disease risk.

• High-Protein Diet:

• Increases protein for wound healing and muscle repair.

1. MyPlate Recommendations:

• Visual guide to building a balanced meal:

  • Half the plate: Fruits and vegetables.

  • Quarter of the plate: Whole grains.

  • Quarter of the plate: Proteins.

  • Include a serving of dairy or a fortified alternative.

1. Nutritional Labels:

• Help identify serving sizes, calories, and nutrient content.

• Pay attention to total fat, sodium, and added sugars.

Malnutrition

• Caused by inadequate or excessive nutrient intake.

• Can lead to weakened immunity, poor growth, and chronic illnesses.

Iron Deficiency

Leads to anemia.

Vitamin D Deficiency

Causes rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults.

Iodine Deficiency

• Leads to goiter.

1. Preventing Chronic Diseases:

• Balanced diets reduce the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.

1. Boosting Immunity:

• Vitamins (C, E) and minerals (zinc) enhance immune function.

1. Enhancing Mental Health:

• Omega-3 fatty acids and B vitamins support brain function and mood regulation.

 Home Care

• Home care provides health services in a patient’s residence, promoting independence and comfort.

• Roles include assisting with daily living activities, medical care, and emotional support.

1. Personal Care Assistance:

• Help with bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting.

• Encourage independence while providing necessary support.

1. Health Monitoring:

• Take vital signs and report any changes to the supervising nurse or physician.

• Monitor medication schedules and ensure proper administration.

1. Emotional Support:

• Provide companionship to alleviate loneliness and anxiety.

• Engage patients in activities to boost morale and mental health.

1. Household Management:

• Perform light housekeeping, such as cleaning and laundry.

• Plan and prepare nutritious meals according to dietary restrictions.

1. Communication Skills:

• Maintain clear, respectful communication with patients and family members.

• Document care provided and report any concerns.

1. Observation Skills:

• Recognize changes in physical or mental health.

• Note signs of pain, discomfort, or distress.

1. Time Management:

• Balance multiple tasks efficiently to meet patient needs.

1. Elderly Patients:

• Be patient and empathetic, as aging can bring physical and emotional challenges.

• Monitor for signs of elder abuse or neglect.

1. Chronically Ill Patients:

• Provide consistent care and encourage adherence to treatment plans.

• Help manage symptoms and maintain quality of life.

1. Post-Surgery Patients:

• Assist with wound care and mobility during recovery.

• Encourage follow-up with healthcare providers.

1. Patients with Disabilities:

• Adapt the home environment to improve accessibility.

• Support participation in daily activities and therapies.

1. Recognizing Burnout:

• Signs include fatigue, irritability, and loss of motivation.

1. Stress Reduction Techniques:

• Practice self-care, such as exercise, proper nutrition, and relaxation.

• Seek support from colleagues, friends, or counseling services.

1. Confidentiality:

• Protect patient information in compliance with HIPAA regulations.

1. Consent and Autonomy:

• Respect patients’ rights to make decisions about their care.

1. Professional Boundaries:

• Maintain a professional relationship while providing compassionate care.

1. Reporting Abuse:

• Be vigilant for signs of physical, emotional, or financial abuse.

• Report suspicions to appropriate authorities as required by law.