What a caregiver does, and what a caregiver does not do

Your role in one sentence

A caregiver helps a person live safely, comfortably and with dignity. You support the client with daily tasks such as washing, dressing, meals and moving around. You also give company, and you notice when something is wrong.

You are not a doctor or a nurse. But you often spend the most time with the client, so you are often the first person to see a problem.

What caregivers usually do

• Help with personal care: washing, dressing and using the toilet.
• Prepare meals and help the client to eat and drink.
• Keep the client's room and surroundings clean and safe.
• Give emotional support and company.
• Write down and report what you see.
• Remind the client about medicines, only if your employer's policy allows it.

Boundaries

Every employer has rules about your duties. These rules are called boundaries. They protect the client, and they protect you.

• Do not give injections or change medical treatment.
• Do not decide on your own to stop, add or change a medicine.
• Do not take on tasks outside your job description, even if a family member asks you.
• Do not accept money, gifts or loans from a client.

Remember: If you are not sure whether a task is part of your job, ask your supervisor or employer before you do it.

Being professional

Families in Nairobi, care homes in the UK and households in Dubai all expect the same basic professional habits.

Do	Do not
Arrive on time, clean and neatly dressed	Arrive late without telling anyone
Greet the client by name	Use your phone while caring for someone
Follow the care plan	Argue in front of the client
Report a mistake quickly	Hide a mistake

A care plan is a written guide that explains what help each client needs.

Confidentiality

Confidentiality means keeping a client's private information private. This includes their illness, money, family problems and home address.

For example, you work for Mrs Wanjiru in Kilimani. A neighbour asks, "What is wrong with her?" You answer kindly, "I am sorry, I cannot talk about my clients." You also never post photos or stories about clients on WhatsApp or Facebook.

You may share information only with people who need it to keep the client safe, such as your supervisor, the nurse or the doctor.

Key points

• A caregiver supports daily life and reports changes, but does not act as a doctor or nurse.
• Boundaries protect both the client and the caregiver. Ask if you are unsure.
• Professional behaviour means being on time, clean, honest and respectful.
• Keep client information private and share it only with people who need it for the client's safety.