Theme 4 Flashcards
1
Q
equality
A
Equality means ensuring that everyone has the same opportunities and is treated without discrimination, regardless of their background or characteristics.
2
Q
diversity
A
Diversity is the presence of a wide range of different characteristics and perspectives within a group or organization.
3
Q
inclusion
A
Inclusion involves creating an environment where everyone feels respected, valued, and able to fully participate.
4
Q
safeguarding
A
Safeguarding refers to measures and practices designed to protect individuals from harm, abuse, and neglect, particularly those who are vulnerable.
5
Q
policies
A
are a statement of how anorganisation works. An example of apolicy could be the Health and SafetyPolicy. Policies are normallyimplementedfollowinglegislation thathas been put in place.
6
Q
procedures
A
are a step by step guide onhow to complete a task or follow apolicy. An example of a procedure couldbe waste disposal. This would normallybe implemented after the HealthandSafety policy or infection control policyhas been put in place.
7
Q
importance of policies and procedures
A
Provide quality standardised care for all patients and service users.
Ensure safety
Prevent errors
Provide consistency
Promote health and wellbeing
Ensure safety and wellbeing for practitioners
8
Q
Consequences of not following policies and procedures
A
Health and safety risks
Harm to self and the individual
Termination of employment
Negative media coverage
Implications forinspection/grading
Deregistration for registered practitioners
Potential criminalprosecution or civil legal action against employer or individual
9
Q
codes of conduct
A
Set of guidelines, rules and values/ behavioursexpected of a certain profession.set by professional bodies
10
Q
NMC-professional bodie
A
TheNursing and Midwifery Council(NMC) is the regulator for nursing and midwifery professions in the UK. The NMC maintains a register of allnurses,midwivesand specialist communitypublic healthnurses and nursing associates eligible to practise within the UK. It sets and reviews standards for their education, training, conduct and performance. The NMC also investigates allegations of impaired fitness to practise (i.e. where these standards are not met).
Professionals need to keep their validation up to date and hold a pin to practice.
11
Q
NMC-code of conduct
A
“The Code contains the professional standards that registered nurses, midwives and nursing associates must uphold. Nurses, midwives and nursing associates must act in line with the Code, whether they are providing direct care to individuals, groups or communities or bringing their professional knowledge to bear on nursing and midwifery practice in other roles, such as leadership, education, or research. The values and principles set out in the Code can be applied in a range of different practice settings, but they are not negotiable or discretionary.“
The code outlines the responsibilities of the nurse, midwife and sets the expectations of the behaviours that should be followed.
12
Q
HCPC- Professional body
A
The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) is the statutory regulator for several health and care professions.
The aim of the HCPC is to protect patient safety by keeping a register ofhealth and care professionalswho meetHCPC standards.
HCPC standards cover areas including:
training
conduct
performance
ethics and
continuing professional development (CPD)
These standards are used to decide whether you are fit to work as a health care professional in the UK.
Meeting HCPC standards ensure that individuals practice in a safe, effective and lawful manner and protect members of the public.
13
Q
HCP Code of conduct
A
“The role of the standards of conduct, performance and ethics
they set out, in general terms, how we expect our registrants to behave
they outline what the public should expect from their health and care professional
they help us make decisions about the character of professionals who apply to our Register
we use them if someone raises a concern about a registrant’s practice“
This code relates to all standards. The HCPC also has separate codes against each profession they regulate
14
Q
GMC- Professional body
A
TheGeneral Medical Council(GMC) is a public body that maintains the official register ofmedical practitionerswithin theUnited Kingdom. Its chief responsibility is to “protect, promote and maintain the health and safety of the public” by controlling entry to the register, and suspending or removing members when necessary. It also sets the standards for medical schools in the UK
The GMC provides clear guidelines which doctors should adhere to, the four pillars to ensure good medical practice are:
Knowledge skills and performance
Maintaining trust
Safety and quality
Communication, partnership, and teamwork
15
Q
GMC- Code of conduct
A
“Patients must be able to trust doctors with their lives and health. To justify that trust you must show respect for human life and make sure your practice meets the standards expected of you in four domains.
Domain 1- Knowledge skills and performance
Domain 2- Safety and quality
Domain 3- Communication partnership and teamwork
Domain 4-Maintaining trust
16
Q
Skills for care- Professional body
A
Skills for Care is the strategic workforce development and planning body for adult social care in England. We work with employers, Government and partners to ensure social care has the right people, skills and support required to deliver the highest quality care and support now and in the future.
17
Q
Skills for Care- Code of conduct
A
“As a Healthcare Support Worker or an Adult Social Care Worker, you make a valuable and important contribution to the delivery of high quality healthcare, care and support“
TheCode of conductsets the standard expected of all adult social care workers and healthcare support workers in England.
It outlines the behaviours and attitudes that people who need care and support should rightly expect.
18
Q
Technical qualification
A
Relevant to a skilled occupations that a college leaver or an apprentice would be
entering, typically requiring qualifications at levels 2/3
Are qualifications that develop skills within a specific sector.
Examples- Hair dressing, nursing, hospitality, business, automotive
19
Q
Higher Technical
A
Courses that provide the skills needed to succeed in a particular sector. They can be
taught in a further education college, a university or an independent training
provider.
Higher Technical Qualifications are either new or existing Level 4 and 5 qualifications
(such as HNDs/Foundation Degrees/Diploma HE) that have been approved by the
Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education as meeting occupational
standards for the relevant sector. These qualifications have been developed by
awarding bodies in collaboration with employers and businesses so that students get
the specific training, knowledge and skills required for their chosen career
20
Q
Professional
A
Professional qualifications are vocational training courses that relate to a specific industry or
career path. Some can be taken directly after completing university, while others are aimed
at professionals with several years of experience who are looking to develop their career
further.
They are typically regulated and awarded by relevant professional bodies, and are
designed to ensure that everyone employed in a particular job meets the minimum required
standards of professional expertise.
Professional qualifications link to occupations where there is a clear career progression from
higher technical occupations, as well as occupations where a degree apprenticeship exists
21
Q
Career pathways
A
A career path is a series of jobs that help you progress towards your goals and objectives.
Your career path includes the jobs you’ll need to hit your ultimate career goal, but it doesn’t need to follow a straight line. There’s no blueprint or timetable for climbing the career ladder.
Career paths traditionally imply vertical growth or advancement to higher-level positions, but they can also include lateral (sideways) movement within or across industries
22
Q
Private Healthcare Providers
A
◦Private healthcare organisations operate alongside the NHS, providing additional
options for individuals seeking specific services.
◦Examples include Bupa, Spire Healthcare, and Nuffield Health, which offer
specialised treatments, elective procedures, and shorter wait times.
◦Private healthcare is often covered by private insurance or out-of-pocket expenses
and includes services such as elective surgeries, specialized consultations, and
advanced treatments.
◦Private providers play a role in reducing pressure on the NHS by offering alternative
and supplementary services
23
Q
Non-Profit Organisations in Healthcare
A
Non-profit healthcare organisations are driven by a mission to support
specific populations or health conditions. Non-profits focus on
community well-being, public education, and advocacy, complementing
public healthcare services.
◦ Key examples include:
◦ Marie Curie: Provides palliative care services for terminally ill
patients and supports families.
◦Macmillan Cancer Support: Offers cancer patients emotional,
practical, and financial support.
◦ •• These organisations rely on donations, grants, and volunteer support
and often work closely with NHS services to fill care gaps
24
Q
Social Care Services
A
◦ Adult Social Care: Supports elderly adults
and individuals with disabilities to live safely
and comfortably, often in residential or
home settings.
◦Children and Young People’s Social Care:
Provides care for young people facing
challenges, including fostering, adoption,
and protective services.
◦Social care collaborates with other
healthcare sectors to create an inclusive
support system that addresses all aspects of
well-being
25
Types of Social Care Services
◦Adult Social Care: Includes day-to-day assistance for older adults or those
with disabilities, facilitating independence and quality of life.
◦Children and Young People’s Social Care: Ensures the safety and welfare of
children in need, supports adoption, foster care, and intervention services.
◦Housing Services: Assists individuals in securing stable housing, focusing on
homeless populations, people with disabilities, or those in crisis.
◦Youth and Community Services: Delivers programs that promote youth
engagement, social inclusion, and skill development within communities
26
Diverse Working Environments
Healthcare professionals work in various environments tailored to different patient needs:
◦ Hospital: Offers specialised, emergency, and inpatient care with a wide range of medical departments.
◦ GP Surgery: Primary care for routine check-ups, preventive services, and non-emergency issues.
◦ Community Setting: Includes outreach programs for outpatient services, mental health support, and
rehabilitation.
◦ Residential Setting: Long-term care provided in assisted living or nursing homes for individuals needing
daily support.
◦ Service User’s Home: Home healthcare services like personal care, palliative care, and rehabilitation.
◦ Judicial Care: Healthcare within prison and correctional facilities
◦ Schools: Healthcare and wellness services for students
27
The importance of diversity
◦The diversity of healthcare organisations and work environments enables a holistic
approach to health and social care.
0 Collaboration between public, private, and non-profit sectors creates a
comprehensive system capable of addressing diverse healthcare needs.
◦Different working environments allow healthcare professionals to provide targeted
services and adapt to unique patient needs.
◦Diversity in healthcare employment ensures that each segment of the population
receives suitable, accessible care
28
Structures in Healthcare
Flat structures have few hierarchical layers,
leading to broader responsibilities per role.
• Resulting Job Roles:
- Management Roles: Oversee and
streamline operational tasks.
- Caring Roles: Direct patient care
(nurses, allied health professionals).
- Ancillary Roles: Provide support
functions (e.g., administrative staff,
maintenance).
Tiered Hierarchical structures have multiple
levels of supervision and management.
• Resulting Job Roles:
- Management Roles: Include senior,
middle, and lower management overseeing
various areas.
- Caring Roles: Nurses, therapists, and
clinicians report to supervisors.
- Ancillary Roles: Department-aligned
roles like cleaners or receptionists under
supervision
29
External agencies
External agencies contribute to healthcare
services by providing specialiesd roles and
functions.
• Resulting Job Roles:
- Contractors: Provide IT, facilities
management, or security services.
- Integrated/Non-integrated Services:
Coordinate with or work independently from
core staff, depending on needs
30
Multidisciplinary Teams (MDTs)
• MDTs are composed of professionals
from various disciplines working toward
unified patient care.
• Examples:
- Nurses, doctors, social workers, and
therapists collaborate on patient cases.
• Goal: Achieve holistic patient care by
combining diverse expertise.
• Multi-agency teams include members
from various sectors (e.g., social services)
working together.
• Example:
- Social care practitioners assist with
discharge planning alongside healthcare
providers.
• Goal: Address complex patient needs
requiring support beyond healthcare,
ensuring continuity
31
Primary, secondary and tertiary healthcare tiers.
• Primary Care: First point of contact;
general practitioners, clinics, health
promotion.
• Secondary Care: Specialist services via
referral; hospitals, outpatient care.
• Tertiary Care: Advanced medical care;
specialised surgeries, oncology,
complex treatments
32
Characteristics of Primary Healthcare
• Primary care is the first point of contact for
health care for most people. It is mainly
provided by GPs (general practitioners), but
community pharmacists, opticians and
dentists are also primary care providers.
• Accessible and community-based.
• Focuses on prevention, early diagnosis, and
management.
• Examples: Vaccination programs, routine
checkups
33
Characteristics of Secondary Healthcare
• Secondary care simply means being taken care of
by someone who has particular expertise in
whatever problem a patient is having. It's where
most people go when they have a health problem
that can't be dealt with in primary care because it
needs more specialised knowledge, skill or
equipment than the GP has.
• Referral-based access to specialists.
• Diagnosis and treatment for more serious
conditions.
• Examples: Orthopedics, cardiology consultations.
34
Characteristics of Tertiary Healthcare
• Highly specialised, resource-intensive
services.
• Delivered in large hospitals or
specialised institutions.
• Examples: Organ transplants,
neurosurgery
35
Diverse Personal Factors Influencing Service Access
• Socioeconomic Factors: Income, insurance
status.
• Geographic Location: Urban vs. rural disparities.
• Cultural Beliefs: Attitudes toward medical
treatment.
• Education: Awareness of available services.
36
Barriers to Accessing Services
• Financial: Cost of treatments, lack of
insurance.
• Logistical: Distance, lack of transport.
• Social: Stigma, discrimination.
• Systemic: Long waiting times, language
barriers.
37
What is Public Health?
Public health is about helping people to stay healthy
and protecting them from threats to their health.
Sometimes public health activities involve helping
individuals, at other times they involve dealing with
wider factors that have an impact on the health of
many people (for example an age-group, an ethnic
group, a locality, or a country).
38
Public Health
Public Health has a role in protecting the
public and improving their health.
Public Health educates the public raising
awareness.
Public Health reduces Health inequalities.
“Public health is essential to all aspects of
health and wellbeing and is crucial to
reducing health inequalities and
influencing the wider determinants of
health.”
39
Role of public health
Monitors health issues through the population by
collecting information regarding a particular
issue , who it impacts and the effects.
Determines why a public health issue may occur
and the risks associated with it.
Put in place interventions to reduce risk in
certain environments and locations.
Determine the impact of social issues for health
and wellbeing
40
Benefits of public health
Raises awareness amongst the public
regarding health risks.
Provides education on how to live-
healthier lifestyles and self care.
Improves generational prospects.
Reduces the need for social care services.
Reduction in number of people impacted
by health issues and illnesses.
Reduction in pressure for the NHS
41
What is Public Protection?
“Healthcare is vital to all of us, some of the time, but public health is vi tal to all of us all of the time”
Public health protection involves protecting the nation from public health
hazards by preparing for and responding to public health emergencies. It also
involves improving the health of the whole population by sharing information
and expertise and by identifying and preparing for future public health
challenges
42
What organisation's undertake public health approaches
National Institute for Health Protection (NIHP)
Cam e about after COVID in 202 0. A new organisation
whose primary focus is public health protection and
infectious disease capability. Bought together Public
Health England (PHE), NHS Test and Trace, and the
analytical capability of the Joint Biosecurity Centre
(JBC) under a single leadership team
World Health Organisation (WHO)- The
organisation’s major role is to direct and co-
ordinate international health within the
United Nations system.
The organisation’s major role is to direct and
co-ordinate international health within the
United Nations system. The main areas of
work are health systems; health through the
life-course non-communicable and
communicable diseases; preparedness,
surveillance and response
Department of Health and Social Care
(DHSC)
Support ministers in leading the nation’s health and
social care to help people live more independent,
healthier lives for longer.
DHSC is a m inisterial departm ent, supported by 25
agencies and public bodies.
They put in place a delivery plan in how they will aim
to im prove health out comes for the public
43
Potential impact of external factors on the activities of the healthcare sector.
Outside of normal levels of healthcare required, certain things can have an effect on
people’s health and wellbeing and thus the healthcare sector. Such things can be:
Pandemic
Epidemic
Extreme weather
Infastructure
Geographical events
To ensure health facilities’ readiness to cope with the challenges of a disaster,
hospitals and other healthcare organisations have to be well prepared and should
have a disaster recovery plan.
44
Technology in Healthcare- Apps
• Health applications (for example Evergreen Life, NHS app and My Diabetes My Way) support healthcare by:
• o promotes healthier choices by offering advice and support
• o supports independent management of conditions
• o supports health professionals with ongoing monitoring of conditions
• o supports health teams to manage appointments
45
Health Evergreen
• Evergreen Life is an NHS-assured provider of GP online services. It can be downloaded for
free and is designed to enable individuals to build an accurate, up-to-date personal health and wellness record. It provides a quick way to access GP services and various measures of health.
• Helps users to monitor their health goals
• connects to their GP – they can order repeat prescriptions, book appointments and view their GP record
• enables users to set medication reminders
• keeps track of vaccination records
• stores and tracks body measurements – for instance, blood pressure and glucose (sugar) levels
46
My Diabetes My Way
• Interactive diabetes website from NHS (Scotland)it is being used in Somerset. The app helps support people who have diabetes and their family and friends. The website includes content such as:
• information useful for newly diagnosed patients and family members of people with diabetes
• guidance on diet and activity
• information about physical and psychological complications
• how to monitor glucose levels and what they mean
• information about diabetes treatments
• help with managing diabetes during pregnancy and in children and young adults
47
Technology in Healthcare- Assistive Computer Technology
• Assistive computer technology (for example CAD/CAM/3D printing, health implants and robotic surgery)supports healthcare by:
• o supports the health team to treat or manage conditions more efficiently
• o provides solutions that may not have been previously available in order to support conditions
48
CAD/CAM/3D printing
CAD (Computer-Aided Design), CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing), and 3D printing have revolutionized
healthcare by enabling precise, efficient, and personalised medical solutions.
1. Medical Devices and Prosthetics
• Personalized Prosthetics: CAD enables the design of prosthetics tailored to an individual's anatomy, improving
comfort and functionality.
• Orthotics: CAM systems ensure the precise manufacturing of braces and supports for musculoskeletal conditions.
• Hearing Aids: Custom-fit hearing aids are manufactured rapidly using 3D printing based on digital scans of the ear.
2. Surgical Planning and Training
• Anatomical Models: 3D printing produces patient-specific anatomical models using CAD based on CT or MRI scans.
Surgeons use these for preoperative planning or practice.
• Simulation Models: 3D-printed models are used for medical education and hands-on training in complex surgeries.
3. Dental Applications
• Crowns, Bridges, and Aligners: CAD/CAM technology designs and manufactures precise dental restorations and
orthodontic appliances, reducing turnaround time and improving accuracy.
• Implants: Dental implants are customized to fit the patient’s jawbone, ensuring better integration and durability
49
Health implants
• Health implants are devices that are placed inside the human body for medical purposes. They can be used to treat or
monitor health conditions or to restore body function, such as regulating the heart rate or glucose levels.
• Health implants can be used to deliver medication such as for pain relief or for monitoring diabetes. They can regulate
body functions such as an individual’s heart rate by actively interacting with the body, for example, a pacemaker defibrillator sending out electric shocks in response to changes in heart rhythm
50
Robotic surgery
• Robotic surgery in healthcare is a type of surgery where doctors use robotic systems to perform operations. It allows surgeons to perform complex procedures with more precision, flexibility, and control than traditional techniques. Robotic surgery combines human expertise with advanced technology to improve outcomes and make surgeries less invasive.
• How It Works:
• The surgeon operates a robotic system using a console, which provides a magnified, 3D view of the surgical area. The robot’s arms hold surgical instruments, and they mimic the surgeon’s hand movements with extreme accuracy.
• Advantages:
• Smaller incisions: Less scarring and faster healing.
• High precision: Reduces the risk of damage to nearby tissues.
• Shorter recovery time: Patients can return to normal activities more quickly.
• Less pain and bleeding: Better patient comfort during recovery.
• Common Uses:
• Heart surgery (e.g., valve repair), Prostate surgery, Gynecologic surgeries (e.g., hysterectomy), Kidney surgery, General
surgeries (e.g., hernia repair)
51
Technology in Healthcare- AI
• Artificial intelligence technologies: supports health teams to gain access to more expansive data across a wider geographical area
• o supports health professionals to stay informed in relation to trends in condition and response from a wider pool of
individuals
• o supports diagnosis through use of patient data/images and complex algorithms
Medical Diagnosis
• Image Analysis: AI analyses medical images like X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs to detect conditions such as cancer, fractures, and brain
abnormalities with high accuracy.
• Early Detection: AI tools identify patterns in patient data to detect diseases like diabetes, Alzheimer's, or heart disease at earlier stages. This is
called algorithms.
Personalised Medicine
• AI processes genetic, lifestyle, and environmental data to create tailored treatment plans for individual patients.
• In oncology, AI helps predict how patients will respond to different cancer treatments.
Drug Discovery
• Accelerated Research: AI analyses large datasets to identify potential drug candidates and predict their effectiveness.
• Cost Reduction: Reduces the time and expense associated with bringing new drugs to market.
Virtual Health Assistants
• Chatbots and Voice Assistants: Provide symptom checking, appointment scheduling, and medication reminders.
• Remote Patient Monitoring: AI analyses data from wearables and devices to monitor conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
Surgery Assistance
• AI-powered robotic systems assist surgeons by providing real-time guidance and precision, making surgeries safer and less invasive.
• AI simulates surgical procedures for training purposes
Administrative Tasks
• Automates repetitive tasks like billing, coding, and appointment scheduling, reducing administrative burdens on healthcare providers.
• Enhances patient record management with natural language processing (NLP) to extract insights from clinical notes.
Predictive Analytics
• AI analyzes historical and real-time data to predict patient outcomes, such as the risk of hospital readmissions or complications.
• Helps in managing resources like staffing and supplies by forecasting demand.
• Mental Health Support
• AI tools like chatbots and apps provide cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and emotional support.
• AI detects mental health issues by analyzing voice tone, facial expressions, or social media activity.
Epidemiology and Public Health
• Disease Tracking: AI tracks the spread of diseases like COVID-19 by analyzing large-scale data from various sources.
• Vaccine Development: AI models identify potential vaccine candidates faster during pandemics.
Clinical Trials
• AI identifies suitable candidates for clinical trials by analyzing patient records and medical histories.
• Monitors trial data in real-time to ensure safety and efficiency
52
Impacts of future developments in the healthcare sector
• artificial intelligence (AI): improved diagnostics process, improving current triaging systems in which an individual places their symptoms on an online portal and are directed to a particular service.
• technological infrastructure: remote access for healthcare professionals and collaboration across services
• regenerative medicine: restore function to damaged organs or tissues (for example scar tissue)
• biomarkers: assist in identifying early onset of cardiovascular disease. Increase success rate of drug development programmes and accelerate availability of new therapeutics.
• remote care: provide access to online clinics/virtual consultations and mobile clinics/screening
• patient self-management: personal digital health monitors
• funding of services: Negative impact as funding is stretched more people accessing the services
• private healthcare provision: more services available, means more users
• changes in patient/service user demographics: changes in life expectancy, increase in complex care needs, increase in obesity rates
53
Evidence based practice
""Evidence-based practice is the “integration of best research evidence with clinical expertise and patient values.” It means that when health professionals make a treatment decision with their patient, they base it on their clinical expertise, the preferences of the patient, and the best available evidence."
• A ‘menu’ of evidence-based interventions and approaches for addressing and reducing health inequalities has been developed as part of the government’s Long Term Plan for the NHS
The meaning of evidence-based practice, its application and how it benefits and improves the healthcare sector:
• Combines research findings with clinical expertise and professional judgement.
• Assesses all the findings from research, including validity of information and data.
• Draws conclusions and applies findings to improve practice or introduce innovations.
• Reviews the impact of improvements or innovations.
• Evidence-based practice involves healthcare practitioners and providers in being able to justify and give a clear account of their practice, why they provided care in the way that they did. They must be able to give a sound rationale for why they provided care in a particular way
54
Benefits of evidence practice For the Population
• Facilitates improvements in person-centred care
• improves outcomes for individuals
• improves safety u promotes equality in provision
• informs health promotion requirements. For the healthcare sector:
• encourages quality provision
• improves cost effectiveness
• improves capability and competency of the workforce. For the healthcare practitioner: brings job satisfaction
gives empowerment offers continuous professional development
55
Cleaning
Cleaning refers to the process of removing dirt, dust, stains, and other unwanted substances from surfaces, objects, or environments. It involves the use of various cleaning agents, tools, and techniques to achieve a hygienic and visually pleasing result. Cleaning can be performed in various settings, including homes, offices, schools, hospitals, and industrial facilities. It is essential for maintaining a healthy and sanitary environment, preventing the spread of germs and bacteria, and preserving the longevity of surfaces and objects
56
Different methods
• Manual Cleaning: This involves physically wiping surfaces with cleaning solutions and disinfectants using cloths, mops, and scrub brushes. It's a labor-intensive process but is effective when done thoroughly.
• Automated Cleaning: Healthcare facilities often use automated cleaning equipment such as floor scrubbers, ultrasonic cleaners, and automated surface disinfection systems to efficiently clean larger areas and equipment.
• Steam Cleaning: Steam cleaning uses high-pressure steam to sanitize surfaces. It's effective for cleaning and disinfecting surfaces like floors, walls, and medical equipment without the need for chemicals.
• Chemical Cleaning: Various cleaning agents and disinfectants are used to clean and sanitise surfaces. These chemicals can include detergents, disinfectants, and sanitizers, each designed for specific purposes and surfaces.
• Terminal Cleaning: Terminal cleaning involves thorough cleaning and disinfection of patient rooms and other healthcare areas after a patient with a contagious illness has been discharged. It aims to prevent the spread of infection to other patients and staff.
• Each of these cleaning methods has its advantages and is used depending on the specific
requirements of the healthcare facility, the type of surface or equipment being cleaned, and
the level of contamination or infection risk
57
Impact of not cleaning
• Spread of Infections: Failure to clean properly can lead to the spread of infections within healthcare facilities. Bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens can thrive on surfaces, medical equipment, and in the air, increasing the risk of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) among patients.
• Compromised Patient Safety: Unclean environments can compromise patient safety. Patients may be exposed to infectious agents, leading to complications, prolonged hospital stays, or even death, especially among vulnerable populations such as the elderly, immunocompromised individuals, or those undergoing invasive procedures.
• Increased Healthcare Costs: Infections acquired in healthcare settings result in increased healthcare costs due to extended hospital stays, additional treatments, and the need for specialised care. Additionally, healthcare facilities may face financial penalties or legal consequences for failing to meet cleanliness standards.
• Reduced Trust in Healthcare Providers: Patients and their families expect healthcare facilities to provide a safe and clean environment. Failure to maintain cleanliness standards can erode trust in healthcare providers and institutions, leading to dissatisfaction and negative perceptions.
• Negative Impact on Reputation: Healthcare facilities with a reputation for poor cleanliness and hygiene may struggle to attract patients and healthcare professionals. Negative publicity or reports of outbreaks linked to the facility can damage its reputation in the community and beyond.
• Healthcare Worker Safety: Healthcare workers may also be at risk in unclean environments. They may come into contact with contaminated surfaces or equipment, increasing their risk of contracting infections or spreading them to other patients.
• Regulatory Non-Compliance: Healthcare facilities are subject to regulatory standards and inspections regarding cleanliness and infection control. Failure to meet these standards can result in penalties, fines, or even closure of the facility until deficiencies are addressed
58
Impact of not cleaning work areas and equipment
Risks to health and safety:
o increased risk of injury o spread of infection Invalid results:
o contamination or cross-contamination (for example environmental, samples, reagents)
Reduced function of equipment:
o decreased lifespan of equipment
o increased cost and timescales (for example equipment needing repair or being out of service)
59
Reduction of Impacts
• How can these impacts be reduced?
• Regular cleaning schedules identified in SOPs
• Regular maintenance checks
• Regular calibration ( process of checking the accuracy of the equipment) of equipment
• Replace batteries
• Check connections and wires
60
Why is it important to calibrate and test equipment?
• When using equipment it is important to ensure that it is working correctly. If not the wrong
readings may be given. A "definition of calibration is that calibration is the process of comparing a device under test
(DUT) of an unknown value with a reference standard of a known value. Calibration of an instrument in its purest sense is the process of determining its accuracy".
• Ensures the accuracy of measurements.
• Prolong the life of the equipment.
• Meet legal requirements.
61
Stock Management
Why is it important?
Sufficient supply of consumables and materials
Ensure materials are used by the expiry date
Reduces the cost of excess stock
Improves efficiency
Improves productivity
Ensures safety of stock (Damaged materials and security of drugs)
62
Consequences of not storing products, materials correctly
Cross contamination
Breakdown of stability produces (not stored in the correct way)
Products exceeding expiry dates (stock rotation)
Loss of samples or degradation of reagents not stored at the correct temperature (bodily fluid samples)
Risks to health and safety
Stock is difficult to locate
Financial loss
63
Good scientific and clinical practice
In scientific and clinical practice standards and procedures must be followed. This is to ensure good practice. It is important to do our best at all times – particularly when the consequences of getting things wrong can be disastrous
Whatever our work environment, whatever branch of science or healthcare, we must aim to achieve:
• Consistency
• predictability
• reproducibility
• reliability.
On top of all this, we must ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of ourselves and others. We can achieve these objectives in several ways, using standard operating procedures (SOPs)
• effectively managing calibration and maintenance of equipment and work areas
• effectively managing stock
• appropriately storing products, materials and equipment
64
What is a SOP
A SOP is:
A set of written instructions to complete a task. A step by step account of how to do a procedure. They are designed to satndardsie the approach to a process or action, so that everyone learns to do it the same way.
These link with legislation and policy. For example- A handwashing SOP fits with the infection control policy linking with health and safety legislation
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Audits
• Audits play a vital role in healthcare by serving several important purposes:
• Monitoring Compliance: Audits help healthcare organisations to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, accreditation standards, and internal policies and procedures. By regularly reviewing processes and practices, audits verify that healthcare providers are following established guidelines and protocols.
• Identifying Areas for Improvement: Audits identify gaps, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement in healthcare delivery processes. By analyzing audit findings, organisations can pinpoint areas where performance falls short of expectations and implement corrective actions to enhance quality and efficiency.
• Ensuring Patient Safety: Audits help to identify potential risks and hazards that may compromise patient safety. By assessing adherence to safety protocols, infection control measures, medication administration practices, and other critical aspects of patient care, audits contribute to maintaining a safe healthcare environment for patients and staff.
• Optimizing Resource Utilization: Audits assess the utilization of resources such as equipment, supplies, and personnel within healthcare organisations. By evaluating resource allocation and utilization patterns, audits help identify opportunities to optimize resource allocation, reduce waste, and enhance cost- effectiveness
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Audits
• Promoting Accountability: Audits promote accountability among healthcare providers and staff by evaluating
performance against established standards and expectations. By holding individuals and departments accountable for
their actions and outcomes, audits foster a culture of responsibility and transparency within healthcare organisations.
• Supporting Quality Improvement: Audits provide valuable data and insights that inform quality improvement initiatives
within healthcare organizations. By identifying trends, patterns, and areas of variation in practice, audits guide the
development and implementation of evidence-based interventions aimed at enhancing the quality and efficiency of
healthcare delivery.
• Overall, the purpose of audits in healthcare is to ensure compliance, identify opportunities for improvement, enhance
patient safety, optimize resource utilization, promote accountability, support quality improvement, and facilitate
accreditation and credentialing. Audits serve as a valuable tool for maintaining high standards of quality, safety, and
efficiency in healthcare delivery
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Importance of quality standards
• Patient Safety: Quality standards help to ensure that patients receive safe care by setting guidelines and protocols for healthcare delivery. This includes measures to prevent medical errors, infections, and other adverse events that could harm patients.
• Clinical Effectiveness: Quality standards promote evidence-based practices and guidelines that are proven to be effective in improving patient outcomes. By adhering to these standards, healthcare providers can deliver high-quality care that meets the needs of patients.
• Public Confidence: Meeting quality standards enhances public trust and confidence in the healthcare system. When patients and their families know that healthcare providers are following established guidelines and standards, they are more likely to feel confident in the care they receive.
• Accountability: Quality standards provide a framework for assessing and monitoring the performance of healthcare providers and organisations. By setting clear expectations for quality of care, standards hold providers accountable for their actions and outcomes.
• Consistency: Quality Standards ensures guidelines are followed and work practices are consistent.
• Continuous Improvement: Quality standards serve as a basis for continuous quality improvement efforts within healthcare organisations. By regularly evaluating performance against established standards, providers can identify areas for improvement and implement changes to enhance the quality of care over time.
• Regulatory Compliance: Compliance with quality standards is often a requirement for healthcare organisations to maintain accreditation, licensure, or funding. Meeting these standards is necessary to demonstrate that the organization is providing safe, effective, and high -quality care. Overall, quality standards play a critical role in ensuring that patients receive the best possible care in the UK healthcare system. They provide a foundation for safe,
effective, and person-centered care while promoting accountability, transparency, and continuous improvement across all levels of the healthcare delivery system
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Ethics
Ethics refers to the branch of philosophy that deals with questions of morality, principles of right and wrong, and the
distinction between good and bad behavior. It involves the systematic study of moral principles and values that guide
individuals and societies in making decisions and determining what actions are morally right or wrong.
• Ethics explores questions such as:
• What is the nature of right and wrong?
• What are the principles that govern ethical conduct?
• How should individuals and societies make moral judgments?
• What are the ethical obligations and responsibilities of individuals and groups?
• How do ethical principles apply to specific situations and contexts?
• Ethics provides a framework for analyzing and evaluating moral dilemmas, conflicts of interest, and ethical controversies in various domains of human life, including healthcare, business, law, politics, and personal relationships
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Ethical Practical
Ethical practice in UK healthcare encompasses the principles and standards that guide healthcare professionals and
organisations in making morally sound decisions and conducting themselves with integrity, respect, and compassion. Ethical practice is based on a set of core values and principles that prioritise the well-being, autonomy, and dignity of patients and service users. Some key aspects of ethical practice in UK healthcare include:
• Autonomy and Informed Consent: Respecting patients' right to make autonomous decisions about their
healthcare and ensuring that they are adequately informed about their treatment options, risks, and benefits
before consenting to medical interventions.
• Confidentiality and Privacy: Safeguarding patients' confidential information and respecting their privacy rights
by maintaining confidentiality of medical records and personal health information, and only disclosing
information with patient consent or in accordance with legal requirements.
• Beneficence and Nonmaleficence: Acting in the best interests of patients by providing care that promotes their
well-being, while also avoiding harm and minimizing risks of adverse outcomes. Healthcare professionals have a
duty to do good (beneficence) and to avoid causing harm (nonmaleficence).
• Truthfulness and Honesty: Being truthful and honest in all interactions with patients, colleagues, and other
stakeholders, including providing accurate information about diagnoses, prognosis, treatment options, and
potential outcomes
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Ethical Practice
• Justice and Fairness: Ensuring fair and equitable access to healthcare services, resources, and treatments for all
patients, regardless of their background, socio-economic status, or other characteristics. Healthcare professionals
have a responsibility to advocate for social justice and address health disparities.
• Respect for Dignity and Rights: Respecting the inherent dignity, rights, and autonomy of every individual,
including treating patients with respect, empathy, and cultural sensitivity, and upholding their right to self-
determination and participation in decision-making.
• Professional Integrity and Accountability: Demonstrating professional integrity, honesty, and transparency in all
professional activities, and being accountable for one's actions, decisions, and performance. Healthcare
professionals have a duty to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct and to report unethical behavior or
breaches of professional standards.
• Overall, ethical practice in UK healthcare is grounded in a commitment to ethical principles, professional values,
and moral responsibilities that guide healthcare professionals and organisations in delivering compassionate,
respectful, and patient-centered care while upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism
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Origins of healthcare- NHS Timeline
• origins of the healthcare sector in the UK:
• o National Health Service (NHS): founded on 5 July 1948 the first completely free healthcare service the creation of the NHS was the result of many years of debate and discussion from the early 1900s NHS Act 1946 when Aneurin Bevan
became health minister • how the healthcare sector has developed since 1945:
• o NHS has undergone many changes, updates and re-organisations
• o due to expenditure exceeding demand and the resulting pressure on funding some services incurred charges (for example prescription charges)
• o private sector healthcare has developed in parallel with NHS: funded through private medical insurance or individual payments this sector continues to expand
• many charities have also developed services to support health and wellbeing and provide healthcare (for example Marie Curie hospices)
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Different ways the sector is funded
• public sector: Most hospitals and GP Surgeries o tax funded o National Insurance o current government health
sector policy
• private sector: Services paid for by individuals such as private care services, non NHS dentist o premiums o one off
payments o current government health sector policy
• voluntary/charity sector: non profit organisations and charities o donations o fund raising o grant funding
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Public Sector
In the United Kingdom (UK), the public sector of health, which primarily consists of the National Health Service (NHS),
is funded through a combination of taxation, National Insurance contributions, and government allocations. Here's a
breakdown of how these funding sources contribute to the UK's public healthcare system:
• Taxation: The majority of funding for the NHS comes from general taxation. The UK government collects taxes from
individuals, businesses, and other entities, and a significant portion of these funds is allocated to the Department of
Health and Social Care (DHSC), which oversees the NHS. Income tax, corporate tax, and value-added tax (VAT)
are among the taxes that contribute to NHS funding.
• National Insurance Contributions: National Insurance (NI) contributions also play a crucial role in funding
healthcare in the UK. NI contributions are deducted from the earnings of employees, employers, and self-
employed individuals. A portion of these contributions goes toward funding the NHS and other social welfare
programs. However, it's important to note that NI contributions do not directly cover the entire cost of healthcare
services and are supplemented by general taxation.
• Government Budget Allocations: The UK government allocates a specific portion of its annual budget to fund the
NHS and other healthcare services provided by the public sector. This funding covers various expenses, including
salaries for healthcare professionals, medical equipment, infrastructure maintenance, and operational costs for
hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities.
• User Fees and Charges: While the majority of NHS services are free at the point of use, there are instances where
patients may be required to pay for certain services, prescriptions, or treatments. However, these fees are typically
minimal and do not serve as a primary source of funding for the NHS.
• Overall, the UK's public sector of health, including the NHS, relies heavily on taxation, National Insurance
contributions, and government budget allocations to provide comprehensive and accessible healthcare services
to its residents
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Private Sector
In the United Kingdom (UK), the private sector of healthcare is funded through various means, primarily by individuals, private health insurance, and out-of-pocket payments.
• Out-of-Pocket Payments: Patients using private healthcare services often pay directly for the care they receive. These
payments include fees for consultations, diagnostic tests, treatments, surgeries, and other medical services. Individuals may choose to use private healthcare for various reasons, such as faster access to services or to access treatments not available through the NHS.
• Private Health Insurance: Many individuals in the UK opt to purchase private health insurance to cover the costs of private healthcare services. Private health insurance plans vary in coverage and cost, with individuals or employers paying premiums to insurance companies in exchange for coverage for medical expenses. Private health insurance may cover a range of services, including consultations, hospital stays, surgeries, and specialist treatments.
• Employer-Sponsored Health Insurance: Some employers offer private health insurance as part of their employee benefits packages. In these cases, the employer typically covers part or all of the premium costs for their employees and, in some instances, their dependents. Employer-sponsored health insurance plans may provide access to private healthcare services, allowing employees to receive treatment more quickly or access additional services beyond what is available through the NHS.
• Self-Pay Options: Individuals who do not have private health insurance or who require services not covered by insurance may choose to pay for private healthcare services out-of-pocket. Private healthcare providers typically offer transparent pricing for services, allowing patients to know the cost upfront and pay directly for the care they receive.
Overall, the private sector of healthcare in the UK is primarily funded by individuals, private health insurance, and out-of- pocket payments. This sector operates alongside the publicly funded National Health Service (NHS), providing individuals with options for accessing healthcare services based on their preferences, needs, and financial circumstances
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Charities/ Voluntary Sector
The voluntary or charity sector of healthcare in the UK is funded through a combination of sources, including donations, grants, fundraising activities, and partnerships.
• Donations from Individuals and Organisations: Charitable healthcare organisations rely heavily on donations from individuals, businesses, trusts, and foundations. These donations can come in the form of one-time contributions, regular donations, or legacy gifts left in wills. Donations from philanthropic individuals and organisations are often a significant source of funding for charitable healthcare initiatives and organisations.
• Grants and Funding from Charitable Trusts and Foundations: Charitable trusts and foundations play a crucial role in funding healthcare-related projects and programs in the voluntary sector. These organisations provide grants and funding to support a wide range of healthcare initiatives, including medical research, patient support services, community health programs, and healthcare infrastructure development.
• Fundraising Activities: Charitable healthcare organisations engage in various fundraising activities to generate funds to support their work. These activities may include events such as charity galas, sponsored walks or runs, charity auctions, online fundraising campaigns, and community fundraising events. Funds raised through these activities contribute to the operational costs, programs, and services provided by charitable healthcare organisations.
• Corporate Partnerships and Sponsorships: Charitable healthcare organisations often collaborate with businesses and corporations through corporate partnerships, sponsorships, and cause-related marketing initiatives. These partnerships may involve financial contributions, in-kind donations, employee volunteering programs, or support for specific healthcare projects or campaigns. Corporate support can provide valuable funding and resources to help charitable healthcare organisations fulfill their missions and objectives.
• Government Grants and Contracts: In some cases, charitable healthcare organisations may receive grants or contracts from government agencies to deliver specific healthcare services or programs. These government-funded initiatives may focus on addressing particular health needs, improving access to healthcare services, or supporting vulnerable populations. Overall, the voluntary/charity sector of healthcare in the UK relies on a diverse range of funding sources, including donations, grants, fundraising activities, partnerships, and government support. These funding streams enable charitable healthcare organisations to provide vital services, support medical research, and improve health outcomes for individuals and communities across the country
