Hygiene Hy-Jinx
Another good topic that was discussed. At the beginning of each of our module, we go over general guidelines for the practice in school.
I always make it a point to emphasize to the students that it is very important to have good hygiene. They sit close to each other that it is important that they do not bathe themselves with cologne or other sprays.
I keep reminding them that however they behave in school is how they will behave once they are out there. Wearing uniforms that are cleaned and ironed, badges on, little makeup, hair neatly off their face and shoulders, using deodorants, getting enough sleep, gargling or eating some Certs if students smoke or a burrito or burger with lots of onions,and so on.
I always remind that first impression is a big factor when they are interviewing so they must carry themselves well.
lori, so many people overlook the message you are giving here, but it is critical to the professional image one must maintain when out in the job world.
Michele Deck
Hygiene practices are so important! And it goes far beyond just the cleanliness of ones person. The overall professional image is of great value. I work in the dental field and we have a very "close" working relationship with our patients. I want my students to know that it is important to have proper personal hygiene as well as overall professional appearance. Hair needs to be kept back so it is not hanging over a patient, nails need to be kept short and clean, and jewelry needs to be kept at a minimum so that it does not jeopordize individual patient care. I want students to want to earn the respect of their patients based upon their clinical skills and appearance and not have to question the clinician's abilities because they do not have the adequate professional hygiene and/or attire.
I agree, we teach the no perfume is the way to go.
Hygiene is a very important topic discussed in the class. It is hard to tell someone that they may be wearing to much cologne or perfume. I just have to explain that people maybe allergic to what they are wearing and it is best to not wear any at all while working in the hospital setting.
I don't think this is sophomoric, I think it is effective.
I have role played with another instructor, tidy student/ messy student and dressed accordingly and have students point out what each is doing wrong and each is doing right. Yes it is a somewhat sophomoric display, but it does drive the point home.
I like the mirror example as well as the "Would you let this nurse care for your mother"? How ever, we have had several students with multiple piercings and tatoos that see nothing offensive about them. Of course I make them cover them up.
Students do represent the program even though they may be unaware of it. The also represent the career to the outside world. This is something to have them think about.
You have given many great reasons why hygiene is so important. I too continue to remind my students about the closeness that they will have with classmates as well as other students throughout the school. When they are in uniform that they represent that entire program in that uniform not just themselves.
Matthew, people who are not sensitive to perfume sometimes are unaware of how that affects those who are sensitive to it.
Great point here because sometime too much, perfume, body spray or anything that has a high smell can affects patients.
Jessica, this exercise informs and creates awareness in a safe way. I'm glad you can use it.
It is always difficult when you have to bring a student in and discuss Hygiene issues. I really liked this exercise and I will be incorporating it into my patient care classes.
Your students are lucky to have you as their instructor. You are modeling how to be considerate and professional.
