Training and orienting your respite care provider

Some things your provider must know before respite begins:

• any emergency procedures (for example, location of fire extinguisher and evacuation routes);
   
  
• phone numbers where you can be reached in an emergency;
   
  
• neighbors, friends or relatives the provider can call upon in an emergency;
   
  
• special medical care needs your family member has;
   
  
• any behavioral or emotional concerns the provider should know about, and the most appropriate responses to these concerns;
   
  
• medication your family member receives, when and how to give it, and how to record that it was given;
   
  
• any food or feeding concerns;
   
  
• adaptive equipment;
   
  
• your family member’s most important likes and dislikes;
   
  
• house rules (boundaries, having visitors, etc.);
   
  
• the provider’s expected tasks and responsibilities (basic care and supervision, cleaning, cooking, or transportation).
   
  
• ...and any other information the provider must have in order for you to feel comfortable leaving him or her with your family member.
   
  

Organize the information in a notebook or folder. You can use this sample Family Care Book. Be sure to inform the provider any time the information is updated, such as a new doctor or emergency contact number.