The key purpose identified for those working in health, social or care settings is “to provide an integrated, ethical and inclusive service, which meets agreed needs and outcomes of people requiring health and/or social care”.
For this unit you need to be able to undertake pressure area care for individuals, following the individual's care plan and risk assessment, and relevant protocols and procedures within your work area. It is aimed at prevention that is maintaining healthy skin and preventing breakdown.
A series of interventions which will minimise or prevent infection and cross infection including hand washing / cleansing before during and after the activity and the use of personal protective clothing and additional protective equipment when appropriate.
This unit originates from Health CHS5 and is directly transferable to health precautions and health and safety measures.
Performance criteria
You must be able to:
P1 you apply standard precautions for infection control and take other appropriate health and safety measures
P2 you work with others in a methodical and organised manner
P3 you explain to the individual what you are going to do in a manner that they will understand and obtain their consent
P4 you follow the plan of care accurately, maintaining the privacy and dignity of the individual at all times
P5 ensure that you can carry out the procedure without obstruction from clothing or bedding
P6 you encourage the individual to be involved in their own pressure area care
P7 you notice any changes to the individuals skin condition and report them to the appropriate member of staff
P8 you utilise pressure relieving aids appropriately, according to the care plan and manufacturer's instructions
P9 you leave the individual in a comfortable position and situation according to the plan of care
P10 you complete all records and documentation or pass the information onto others if this is not within your role
Knowledge and understanding