Category Archives: Year 1

Prevent

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The Prevent strategy is a comprehensive effort aimed at preventing people from becoming terrorists or supporting terrorism in any way. The strategy aims to tackle the ideological causes of terrorism, intervene early to provide support to individuals who may be susceptible to radicalisation, and enable those who have already engaged in terrorism to disengage and rehabilitate themselves.

Nursing associates in the UK must clearly understand the Prevent strategy, as they often work closely with individuals who may be vulnerable to radicalisation or extremism. By thoroughly understanding the strategy, nursing associates can play a vital role in identifying and supporting those at risk of radicalisation, ultimately contributing to a safer and more secure society.

Radicalisation occurs when someone starts to believe or support extreme views and, in some cases, participates in terrorist groups or acts. It can manifest in various forms, including religious, political, or social extremisms. Understanding radicalisation includes awareness of the signs and indications of radicalisation, such as changes in behaviour or beliefs.

It is essential to identify individuals who may be vulnerable to radicalisation and refer them to the appropriate support services. This can be done by reporting concerns to the local authority, safeguarding team, or police for assessment. Nursing associates should be trained to recognise signs of potential radicalisation, such as expressing extremist views, isolation, or interest in extremist literature or websites. They should then know how to refer these individuals to the appropriate authorities or support services.

Early intervention is a crucial part of the prevention strategy. It involves identifying issues early on and providing practical support to prevent them from escalating into more complex and costly responses, often leading to poorer outcomes. Nursing associates play a vital role in early intervention by providing support and guidance to individuals who may be vulnerable to radicalisation. This support includes offering counselling, connecting them with community resources, or providing education about the risks of extremism.

Nursing associates can help promote and build resilience in the prevention strategy. They can help individuals develop their self-esteem, sense of belonging, and critical thinking skills, which can help them resist extremist ideologies and make informed choices.

Preventing radicalisation requires a multidisciplinary approach involving healthcare professionals, educators, social workers, law enforcement, and community organisations. Nurses should collaborate with other professionals to share information and coordinate efforts to support at-risk individuals.

Cultural sensitivity refers to being conscious and accepting of cultural distinctions. It involves comprehending another person’s beliefs or values and accepting other cultures. Nursing associates must approach prevention strategies with cultural sensitivity and respect for individual beliefs and backgrounds. It is crucial to interact with individuals non-judgmentally and tailor interventions to their specific needs and circumstances.

British Values

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Reflection on British Values

In upholding British values, we can cultivate a setting that is devoid of any form of prejudice, bigotry, or hatred. As outlined in the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) Code of Conduct, healthcare practitioners must consider how they promote the values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect, and tolerance in their work. Additionally, they must fulfil their obligation to combat radicalisation and extremism.

Democracy, one of the fundamental pillars of a society that values freedom and equality, is crucial in promoting awareness of individuals’ rights and responsibilities. In healthcare, democratic principles are deeply embedded within the values and standards of the NMC code. This approach emphasises a collaborative decision-making process that involves the patient, their families, the healthcare team, and other professionals. It recognises the importance of informed consent, patient autonomy, and shared decision-making, which are all central to providing high-quality healthcare.

Nursing associates are crucial in advocating for patients’ rights and involvement in their care. They respect the patient’s right to make informed choices and decisions about their health. Nursing associates are committed to promoting patient autonomy and informed consent, ensuring patients are fully informed about their health status and treatment options. Additionally, nurses are responsible for giving patients access to all relevant information and resources to make informed choices about their care.

Democratic principles are essential to the provision of high-quality healthcare. The collaborative approach to decision-making, informed consent, patient autonomy, and shared decision-making are central to ensuring patients receive the best care. Nursing associates are critical in promoting and upholding these democratic principles in the healthcare system.

The rule of law is an essential principle that underlines the foundation of a democratic society. It is a concept that holds every individual, organisation, and institution accountable to the law, ensuring that no one is above the law. The rule of law guarantees that laws are applied fairly and enforced justly, without discrimination based on an individual’s social status, wealth, or position.

This principle ensures that everyone is equal before the law and that no one can enjoy any privileges or benefits based on their social status or position. The rule of law ensures justice, fairness, and the protection of individual rights, creating a safe and secure environment for all members of society.

For instance, nursing associates play a crucial role in the healthcare sector, and their practice is governed by laws and regulations that promote patient safety and well-being. The legal frameworks and guidelines within which they work ensure that their practice is ethical and responsible and upholds the highest standards of professionalism. Nursing associates must follow strict protocols and policies to ensure their actions are legal and held accountable for violations or misconduct.

The rule of law is a fundamental principle that protects individual rights, promotes justice, and creates a fair and equal society. It is an essential component of a democratic society that ensures everyone is equal and no one is above it.

Individual liberty is a fundamental concept that refers to the unrestricted freedom of individuals to act, think, and express themselves without any external influence or coercion from others or the government. It encompasses many rights, including freedom of speech, religion, and privacy. These rights are essential to ensure individuals can choose and live according to their values and beliefs.

Nursing associates must respect and support their patients’ right to individual liberty. This involves recognising and upholding their patients’ autonomy, including their right to express themselves and make decisions about their care. Nursing associates must provide necessary care and support while allowing patients to control their lives and healthcare decisions.

Respecting individual liberty is especially important in healthcare, where patients may be vulnerable or need assistance. By supporting their patients’ autonomy and freedom of expression, nursing associates can help to ensure that each patient receives the care and support they need while maintaining their dignity and independence.

Respect and tolerance are crucial components of effective communication and healthy relationships. Understanding that everyone differs in their beliefs, values, and ideas is essential. As such, it is necessary to respect the values, beliefs, and opinions of others without imposing our own.

Valuing diversity and recognising the unique perspectives and experiences of others is paramount. This involves embracing diversity and demonstrating tolerance towards patients from different backgrounds, cultures, and belief systems. Providing care without discrimination or prejudice and promoting a safe and inclusive environment are necessary.

As healthcare professionals, we ensure our patients feel respected, heard, and valued. This is achieved by addressing their needs, preferences, and concerns. Furthermore, we must strive to create a culture of acceptance and inclusivity that celebrates diversity and promotes equitable healthcare.

In conclusion, British values attach great importance to healthcare principles that respect patients’ autonomy and their right to make decisions. At the same time, they promote a safe and all-inclusive environment that values diversity and provides equitable healthcare. They emphasise the significance of understanding and respecting the unique experiences and perspectives of others. Ultimately, these principles are critical in creating a fair, just, and equal society that upholds individual rights and freedoms.

Learning Log Day 08/03/2024

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Date of Learning Log: 08/03/2024

Time: 09:30-16:00

Learning Activity 1: Course Debrief and Introduction to Year 2 Modules.

During this session, we discussed and reviewed our completed modules for the whole academic year. This helped me reflect on how well the academic year has been and gave me insight into improving further in the second year. We also discussed several issues we encountered, such as completing theory hours and learning logs and reminded us of the importance of documenting protected learning hours.

This was the first time we all gathered after the last placement. We also had the opportunity to discuss issues or concerns during our last placement area. We were advised on handling problems or situations if they occur in the future. British values and prevention strategies were also discussed, and we were required to create a reflection on the topics. We were reminded of British values and how these correlate to the NMC code.

KSB ADDRESSED:

Knowledge:

K1 Understand the code: Professional standards of practice and behaviour for nurses, midwives and nursing associates (NMC 2018), and how to fulfill all registration requirements
K6  Understand and apply relevant legal, regulatory and governance requirements, policies, and ethical frameworks, including any mandatory reporting duties, to all areas of practice

Skills:

S1 Act in accordance with the Code: Professional standards of practice and behaviour for nurses, midwives and nursing associates (NMC, 2018), and fulfil all registration requirements
S4 Take responsibility for continuous self-reflection, seeking and responding to support and feedback to develop professional knowledge and skills
S5 Safely demonstrate evidence-based practice in all skills and procedures required for entry to the register: Standards of proficiency for nursing associates Annex A & B (NMC 2018)

Behaviour:

B1 Treat people with dignity, respecting individual’s diversity, beliefs, culture, needs, values, privacy and preferences
B2 Show respect and empathy for those you work with, have the courage to challenge areas of concern and work to evidence based best practice
B3 Be adaptable, reliable and consistent, show discretion, resilience and self-awareness

Learning Log Day 26/01/2024

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Date of Learning Log: 26/01/2024

Time: 09:30-16:00

Learning Activity 1: Clinical Simulation – Scenario and Placement Preparation

We recently participated in a clinical simulation during our care delivery session. In this learning activity, we were each assigned a role – either a trainee nursing associate or a patient. Towards the end of the simulation, we were required to provide feedback to one another regarding our experience.

During the simulation, I played the role of a patient who experienced a seizure-like episode, fell to the ground, and hit their head against the wall. The patient was taken to the Accident and Emergency (A&E) department and was conscious but had a throbbing headache. I also had a wound on my left arm. Due to the pain, I became difficult, declining to have observations taken and not wanting my family and friends to know about the situation. I insisted on an MRI scan and paracetamol to ease the pain.

I observed how my peer nursing associates handled the situation during the learning activity. They introduced themselves and gave me plenty of reassurance as their patient. They maintained clear and open communication and explained the procedures, treatment, and expectations, encouraging me to ask questions and address any uncertainties. They gave me choices regarding my treatment and educated me on the importance of having a set of observations taken. They worked collaboratively within the healthcare team and coordinated with the registered nurse. The nursing associates informed me of their care plan and always involved me in decision-making.

Developing clinical skills in a clinical simulation is a crucial aspect of mastering evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment planning. It allows us to practice our skills in a safe and controlled environment, where we can receive immediate feedback from experts, refine our techniques, and improve patient care. Peer feedback is an essential part of this process as it provides a valuable perspective on clinical practice and helps identify blind spots that we may not have noticed on our own.

By leveraging their experience and observations, peers can provide valuable insight into our communication, clinical skills, and patient care strategies. This feedback helps us to refine our techniques, improve our patient care, and foster continuous improvement. Additionally, peer feedback encourages professional growth, promotes accountability, and enhances the quality of patient care by fostering a culture of learning and collaboration.

Practising clinical assessment in a clinical simulation with peer feedback is a powerful way to develop clinical skills, improve patient care, and ultimately enhance healthcare quality.

Towards the end of the session, we discussed placement preparation, the use of Epads, and the forms that needed to be completed. During this time, we had the opportunity to discuss our placement area and our expectations.

KSB Addressed:

Knowledge:

K1 Understand the code: Professional standards of practice and behaviour for nurses, midwives and nursing associates (NMC 2018), and how to fulfill all registration requirements
K2 Understand the demands of professional practice and demonstrate how to recognise signs of vulnerability in themselves or their colleagues and the action required to minimise risks to health
K4 Understand the principles of research and how research findings are used to inform evidence-based practice
K5 Understand the meaning of resilience and emotional intelligence, and their influence on an individual’s ability to provide care
K7 Understand the importance of courage and transparency and apply the Duty of Candour
K9 Understand the aims and principles of health promotion, protection and improvement and the prevention of ill health when engaging with people
K13 Understand the contribution of social influences, health literacy, individual circumstances, behaviours and lifestyle choices to mental, physical and behavioural health outcomes
K14 Understand the importance of health screening
K18 Understand and apply the principles and processes for making reasonable adjustments
K19 Know how and when to escalate to the appropriate professional for expert help and advice
K20 Know how people’s needs for safety, dignity, privacy, comfort and sleep can be met
K21 Understand co-morbidities and the demands of meeting people’s holistic needs when prioritising care
K22 Know how to meet people’s needs related to nutrition, hydration and bladder and bowel health
K23  Know how to meet people’s needs related to mobility, hygiene, oral care, wound care and skin integrity
K24 Know how to support people with commonly encountered symptoms including anxiety, confusion, discomfort and pain
K26 Understand where and how to seek guidance and support from others to ensure that the best interests of those receiving care are upheld
K27 Understand the principles of safe and effective administration and optimisation of medicines in accordance with local and national policies
K28 Understand the effects of medicines, allergies, drug sensitivity, side effects, contraindications and adverse reactions
K29 Understand the different ways by which medicines can be prescribed
K41 Know the roles, responsibilities and scope of practice of different members of the nursing and interdisciplinary team, and own role within it
K42 Understand and apply the principles of human factors and environmental factors when working in teams

Skills:

S1 Act in accordance with the Code: Professional standards of practice and behaviour for nurses, midwives and nursing associates (NMC, 2018), and fulfil all registration requirements
S2 Keep complete, clear, accurate and timely records
S3 Recognise and report any factors that may adversely impact safe and effective care provision
S4 Take responsibility for continuous self-reflection, seeking and responding to support and feedback to develop professional knowledge and skills
S5 Safely demonstrate evidence-based practice in all skills and procedures required for entry to the register: Standards of proficiency for nursing associates Annex A & B (NMC 2018)
S6 Act as an ambassador for their profession and promote public confidence in health and care services
S7 Communicate effectively using a range of skills and strategies with colleagues and people at all stages of life and with a range of mental, physical, cognitive and behavioural health challenges
S8 Recognise signs of vulnerability in self or colleagues and the action required to minimise risks to health
S9 Develop, manage and maintain appropriate relationships with people, their families, carers and colleagues
S10 Provide, promote, and where appropriate advocate for, non-discriminatory, person-centred and sensitive care at all times, reflecting on people’s values and beliefs, diverse backgrounds, cultural characteristics, language requirements, needs and preferences, taking account of any need for adjustments
S13 Apply the aims and principles of health promotion, protection and improvement and the prevention of ill health when engaging with people
S14 Promote preventive health behaviours and provide information to support people to make informed choices to improve their mental, physical, behavioural health and wellbeing
S15 Identify people who are eligible for health screening
S17 Protect health through understanding and applying the principles of infection prevention and control, including communicable disease surveillance and antimicrobial stewardship and resistance
S18 Apply knowledge, communication and relationship management skills required to provide people, families and carers with accurate information that meets their needs before, during and after a range of interventions
S21 Monitor the effectiveness of care in partnership with people, families and carers, documenting progress and reporting outcomes
S22 Take personal responsibility to ensure that relevant information is shared according to local policy and appropriate immediate action is taken to provide adequate safeguarding and that concerns are escalated
S23 Work in partnership with people, to encourage shared decision making, in order to support individuals, their families and carers to manage their own care when appropriate
S24 Perform a range of nursing procedures and manage devices, to meet people’s need for safe, effective and person-centred care
S25 Meet people’s needs for safety, dignity, privacy, comfort and sleep
S26 Meet people’s needs related to nutrition, hydration and bladder and bowel health
S27 Meet people’s needs related to mobility, hygiene, oral care, wound care and skin integrity
S28 Support people with commonly encountered symptoms including anxiety, confusion, discomfort and pain
S30 Recognise when a person’s condition has improved or deteriorated by undertaking health monitoring, interpreting, promptly responding, sharing findings and escalating as needed
S35 Accurately undertake risk assessments, using contemporary assessment tools
S38 Prioritise and manage own workload, and recognise where elements of care can safely be delegated to other colleagues, carers and family members
S39 Recognise when people need help to facilitate equitable access to care, support and escalate concerns appropriately
S40 Support and motivate other members of the care team and interact confidently with them
S41 Monitor and review the quality of care delivered, providing challenge and constructive feedback when an aspect of care has been delegated to others
S44 Access, input, and apply information and data using a range of methods including digital technologies, and share appropriately within interdisciplinary teams

Behaviours:

B1 Treat people with dignity, respecting individual’s diversity, beliefs, culture, needs, values, privacy and preferences
B2 Show respect and empathy for those you work with, have the courage to challenge areas of concern and work to evidence based best practice
B3 Be adaptable, reliable and consistent, show discretion, resilience and self-awareness

 

Learning Log Day 19/01/2024

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Date of Learning Log: 19/01/2024

Time: 09:30-16:00

Learning Activity 1: Assessment Tools

Throughout the session, we have delved into various healthcare assessment tools to evaluate a patient’s health status comprehensively. These tools encompass multiple sections that help capture essential information, such as vital signs, medical history, current medications, allergies, physical assessment findings, and patient subjective data. By collecting this information, healthcare professionals can better understand the patient’s overall health and identify any potential health risks or concerns that need to be addressed.

In addition to the general assessment tools, specialised assessment tools are tailored to specific health conditions. For instance, pain assessment scales are used to gauge the severity of a patient’s pain, which can help to determine the appropriate pain management plan. Similarly, depression screening tools are used to identify patients who may be experiencing symptoms of depression, enabling healthcare providers to offer the necessary support and resources. Nutritional assessment forms are also used to evaluate a patient’s dietary habits and identify any nutritional deficiencies that may impact their health.

Overall, these assessment tools are invaluable resources that help healthcare providers deliver high-quality care tailored to each patient’s unique needs and circumstances. They are used for specific conditions, such as pain assessment scales, depression screening tools, and nutritional assessment forms.

Learning Activity 2: Wound Care

During our learning activity, we explored the fundamental principles of the aseptic non-touch technique (ANTT), vital to maintaining infection control and ensuring patient safety during clinical procedures. The session provided a comprehensive overview of wound healing, wound types, cleansing, and dressing. We also discussed the importance of preventing pressure injuries and wound infections.

In the first part of the session, the course convenor gave us a quiz on the skin. We examined the anatomy of skin in detail, including its various layers and their functions. We also learned how to assess the skin for signs of damage or deterioration. Furthermore, we explored the stages of wound healing, types of wounds, and methods for preventing pressure ulcers. We also discussed the TIMES tool, a widely used wound assessment tool.

Toward the end of the session, we explored different types of dressings and their uses, proper skin care techniques, and the importance of cleansing and dressing a wound. We learned about the various factors influencing wound healing, including nutrition, hydration, and overall health.

Acquiring wound care skills is crucial for nursing for several reasons. Firstly, wound care is a fundamental skill that is essential in providing comprehensive patient care. Effective wound care techniques can help prevent infections and complications, ensuring the safety and well-being of patients. Additionally, proper wound care promotes healing and reduces the risk of chronic wounds. Understanding wound care allows nurses to provide holistic care, addressing the wound and the patient’s overall health and well-being. By developing these skills, nurses can provide high-quality care that meets the needs of their patients and enhances their quality of life.

KSB ADDRESSED:

Knowledge:

K2 Understand the demands of professional practice and demonstrate how to recognise signs of vulnerability in themselves or their colleagues and the action required to minimise risks to health
K3 Understand the professional responsibility to adopt a healthy lifestyle to maintain the level of personal fitness and well-being required to meet people’s needs for mental and physical care
K4 Understand the principles of research and how research findings are used to inform evidence-based practice
K5 Understand the meaning of resilience and emotional intelligence, and their influence on an individual’s ability to provide care
K9 Understand the aims and principles of health promotion, protection and improvement and the prevention of ill health when engaging with people
K11 Understand the factors that may lead to inequalities in health outcomes
K12 Understand the importance of early years and childhood experiences and the possible impact on life choices, mental, physical and behavioural health and well-being
K13 Understand the contribution of social influences, health literacy, individual circumstances, behaviours and lifestyle choices to mental, physical and behavioural health outcomes
K14 Understand the importance of health screening
K16 Understand body systems and homeostasis, human anatomy and physiology, biology, genomics, pharmacology, social and behavioural sciences as applied to delivery of care
K22 Know how to meet people’s needs related to nutrition, hydration and bladder and bowel health
K23  Know how to meet people’s needs related to mobility, hygiene, oral care, wound care and skin integrity
K24 Know how to support people with commonly encountered symptoms including anxiety, confusion, discomfort and pain
K28 Understand the effects of medicines, allergies, drug sensitivity, side effects, contraindications and adverse reactions
K29 Understand the different ways by which medicines can be prescribed
K41 Know the roles, responsibilities and scope of practice of different members of the nursing and interdisciplinary team, and own role within it
K42 Understand and apply the principles of human factors and environmental factors when working in teams

Skills:

S2 Keep complete, clear, accurate and timely records
S3 Recognise and report any factors that may adversely impact safe and effective care provision
S4 Take responsibility for continuous self-reflection, seeking and responding to support and feedback to develop professional knowledge and skills
S5 Safely demonstrate evidence-based practice in all skills and procedures required for entry to the register: Standards of proficiency for nursing associates Annex A & B (NMC 2018)
S7 Communicate effectively using a range of skills and strategies with colleagues and people at all stages of life and with a range of mental, physical, cognitive and behavioural health challenges
S10 Provide, promote, and where appropriate advocate for, non-discriminatory, person-centred and sensitive care at all times, reflecting on people’s values and beliefs, diverse backgrounds, cultural characteristics, language requirements, needs and preferences, taking account of any need for adjustments
S13 Apply the aims and principles of health promotion, protection and improvement and the prevention of ill health when engaging with people
S14 Promote preventive health behaviours and provide information to support people to make informed choices to improve their mental, physical, behavioural health and wellbeing
S15 Identify people who are eligible for health screening
S17 Protect health through understanding and applying the principles of infection prevention and control, including communicable disease surveillance and antimicrobial stewardship and resistance
S18 Apply knowledge, communication and relationship management skills required to provide people, families and carers with accurate information that meets their needs before, during and after a range of interventions
S20 Recognise people at risk of abuse, self-harm and/or suicidal ideation and the situations that may put them and others at risk
S21 Monitor the effectiveness of care in partnership with people, families and carers, documenting progress and reporting outcomes
S24 Perform a range of nursing procedures and manage devices, to meet people’s need for safe, effective and person-centred care
S25 Meet people’s needs for safety, dignity, privacy, comfort and sleep
S26 Meet people’s needs related to nutrition, hydration and bladder and bowel health
S27 Meet people’s needs related to mobility, hygiene, oral care, wound care and skin integrity
S28 Support people with commonly encountered symptoms including anxiety, confusion, discomfort and pain
S30 Recognise when a person’s condition has improved or deteriorated by undertaking health monitoring, interpreting, promptly responding, sharing findings and escalating as needed
S35 Accurately undertake risk assessments, using contemporary assessment tools

Behaviours:

B1 Treat people with dignity, respecting individual’s diversity, beliefs, culture, needs, values, privacy and preferences
B2 Show respect and empathy for those you work with, have the courage to challenge areas of concern and work to evidence based best practice
B3 Be adaptable, reliable and consistent, show discretion, resilience and self-awareness