Micromanaging, control-freak client

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Hi Everyone! I'm working as a home health CCA to help pay my way through nursing school, and for the most part it's going fine. I do have one "problem client" though.

She is nice enough, but she makes my shifts with her MISERABLE. She nit-picks and micromanages literally EVERYTHING I do. I'll wipe her counter (I am properly wiping it, there are no crumbs when I'm done), and she'll go behind me and do it herself. She'll make me re-hang her laundry because she doesn't like the way I did it. I am not being lazy or half-assing things, she just needs them done "her way"! Today, she gave me dirty laundry and told me to put it in the washing machine. I put the clothes and detergent in and started the cycle. She absolutely flipped at me because apparently she just wanted the clothes placed in the washing machine, not washed.

Has anyone else had a client like this? I don't think I can keep caring for her if she doesn't ease up on me, but I don't want to leave her and have to start again with a new client who may potentially be worse. Any advice?

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

Take notes as to how she wants things done her way. Obviously take her literally (put in wash so just put in wash). Or ask, "Since I'm putting these in the washer, do you want me to start the wash too?"

Ask your supervising nurse for assistance. You are a guest in their home. Many have difficulty admitting they need assistance.

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Specializes in Vents, Telemetry, Home Care, Home infusion.

Some elderly are set in their ways, have done activities in certain order all their life and giving up control make them more anxious.

Few have Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. Justbeachynurse advice spot on.

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