> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.arborconnect.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.arborconnect.com/understanding-expectations/workplace-policies.md).

# Workplace Policies and Day-to-Day Expectations

## Communication

### Confidentiality

Ensuring resident privacy is not only our responsibility, it's the law. Resident information should only be shared with the appropriate people when necessary to provide for resident care.

Make sure you are in a confidential place if you need to discuss care issues with the resident, a family member or other team members. Never discuss resident concerns in the hallways or common areas.

Unless you are authorized to do so, do not take photos of residents or other team members during work at the Community.

### Communication Log

Residents' needs change week to week and sometimes even day to day. We need to know about these changes in order to provide excellent care.

The Communication Log, which is kept in the Wellness Center, is used to record and document information about resident health and safety concerns.

Sharing critical information with each other is one of your most important jobs. Your supervisor will document in the Communication Log any resident care concerns that have arisen on your shift. Remember that the Communication Log is a legal document and can be reviewed by state regulators any time. The Communication Log is NOT for personal notes or insignificant issues.

All resident care team members are expected to read and initial the Communication Log every day.

### What sort of information is recorded in the Communication Log?

* Changes in resident condition such as appearance, appetite, speech, mobility and skin complexion.
* Information about a new resident (will often be written by the Resident Care Director or Sales Director).
* Changes in a resident's care needs such as the fact that a resident now needs more assistance at night going to the toilet.
* Requests from residents, family members and fellow team members.

### Dos and don'ts of documentation

* Think before you write. Make sure the message is clear in your head.
* Take time to write neatly.
* Record facts, not opinions or assumptions. Avoid using words like "seems, might, think."
* Avoid using too much detail. Pay attention to the basic information.
* Sign your name.
* Record changes of condition for any resident.

## Cell phones

Unless a team member has been designated to use his or her cell phone in the fulfillment of job duties, cell phones may not be used in any area other than the team member break room during scheduled breaks as team members need to be focused on the careful and safe performance of their job duties while on duty. Do not use your cell phone while in resident apartments or resident common areas. Sending and receiving of personal phone calls, texts and emails while on duty must be kept to a minimum, in time and number, and limited only to emergency communications. If there is an emergency, or a family or medical condition which requires you to be available for calls, please advise your supervisor. Other than for those limited circumstances, you can check your phone during breaks. Nonbusiness use of the internet, social media access, video games or playing of videos on your smart phone or electronic device may take place ONLY during breaks.

## Meetings and in-service training

Meetings are held once or twice a month and keep us all informed about community issues and concerns. At least once a month, team members will receive additional in-service training on topics related to resident care. These training sessions help us meet the state's requirement for ongoing training, and strengthen our skills and knowledge. Attendance at monthly trainings and Townhalls is considered paid time. If you are unable to attend you are responsible for letting your supervisor know ahead of time and getting the information shared from them during your next shift.

## Smoking

To safeguard the health of all residents and team members, smoking is not permitted inside the Community. Some Communities have a designated smoking area for team members, while other Communities are completely smoke-free, inside and out. If your Community allows smoking, please maintain a clean and safe smoking area. Never throw cigarettes on the ground.

## Dress code

Making a great first impression means looking neat and professional all the time. All team members should follow the dress code of the Community. Non-slip shoes are required of all Resident Assistants, Dining Team Members and Housekeeping/Maintenance/Laundry Team Members.

Team members in other departments should wear clothes appropriate to the job. The Arbor Company team members should always maintain a conservative, dignified and professional appearance while at the Community.

Everyone should have a name badge on at all times.

## Driving

Anyone who drives a community vehicle must have a valid driver's license and a good driving record. Only those team members who have been authorized to drive Community vehicles may do so.

## Personal property

Please do not bring valuable personal items or large amounts of money to work with you. We are not responsible for the loss, damage or theft of your personal items.

## Maintaining a contact number

It is the responsibility of all team members to maintain active contact phone numbers where they can be reached in the event of an emergency. When and if contact phone numbers change, a team member must update his or her phone number with a supervisor or Business Office Director.


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