What is a key role of CCAs in relation to family members of patients?

A key role of Continuing Care Assistants (CCAs) is to ensure that family members are effectively involved in the patient’s care by communicating relevant information about the patient's progress and involving them in care decisions when appropriate. This approach supports the holistic care of the patient, acknowledging that the family plays an essential role in the emotional and practical aspects of a patient's recovery and well-being.

By communicating updates and being a liaison between the healthcare team and the family, CCAs help to foster a supportive environment. This collaboration can enhance the family’s understanding of the patient’s needs and empower them to make informed decisions regarding the care plan. Additionally, it strengthens the bond between the patient and their family, which can improve the overall outcome of the care provided.

The focus on involving families at appropriate times also reflects the importance of respecting the roles of different health professionals. CCAs are guided by their scope of practice, which does not extend to providing all medical details or directing family members solely to physicians, but rather ensuring that families have a voice and are kept informed to facilitate effective care.