Part 3 Your role in promoting good practice

Scenario

You are a newly appointed Care Manager to ABC residential care home and need to produce a report to the Board of Directors on the impact of legislation, policies and procedures and how theory is applied in practice within the care home setting.  The report includes three sections. In the first section you need to explain policy implementation and an evaluation of its impact to the residential care home. The second part deals with the theories underpinning health and social care practice and the final section concerns your role in the development of policy and the implementation of good practice.

To assist you with the writing of the report you could research the following sources of information:

Workplace documents such as; policies, handbooks, manuals, regulations and procedures as well as  a copy of General Social Care Code of Practice for care  worker  and National Minimum Standards for Care (CQC) or  any other relevant document.

Part 1

• Explain the implementation of policies, legislation, regulations and codes of practice that are relevant to   own work in health and social care. (2.1)
• Explain how local policies and procedures can be developed in accordance with national policy and requirements. (2.2).
• Evaluate the impact of policy, legislation, regulation and codes of practice on organizational policy and practice. (2.3)

Part 2

• Explain the theories that underpin health and social care practice and how you can use them to clients like Ms. Sharma.  (3.1)
• An analysis of the social processes impact on users of health and social care services.  (3.2)
• An evaluation of the effectiveness of inter professional working to promote mental health and wellbeing of Ms. Sharma (3.3)

Part 3

• Explain own role, responsibilities, accountabilities and duties in the context of working with those within and outside the health and social care workplace (4.1)
• and evaluate own contributions to the development and implementation of health and social care organizational policy (4.2,)
• And provide some recommendations to develop own contributions to meeting good practice requirements (4.3).

To achieve M2 you must show that you have used a range of source of information to support your explanations, analysis and evaluations of the principles of support.

To achieve M3 the report should be delivered in a structured sequence, using a recognised report format with appropriate language

To achieve D1 you need to demonstrate that you have combined your ideas to develop to make justified conclusions in your report (Task 2)

To achieve D2 you need to demonstrate  how the principles of support are dependent on the application of the underpinning theories of health and social care in your report

To achieve D3 your report will demonstrate your ability to solve problems related to the impact of legislation, policies and procedures and how theory is applied in practice

Answer:

Task one: Essay

Introduction:

The current practices that are in vogue within the realm of health and social care utilize several theories to procure the optimum benefits. The application of the principles pertaining to the health and social care may be analyzed by means of corroborating with a specific scenario encountered by the concerned professional. In this context I would like to mention a particular case that I personally experienced. (Munn-Giddings and Winter 2013) I was responsible for providing support to an older woman namely Ms. Sharma who was suffering from physical disabilities that impaired her day to day activities. Hindrance to her everyday work accounted for the need to provide holistic support to ensure both physical as well as mental well being. In course of my visit to her, I came to know that she has been feeling low since quite some time. She expressed her agony in terms of feeling lonely because no one excepting myself and other staff members visited her in the last month. Pertaining to this particular situation, I would like to highlight on the fact that isolation and loneliness may lead to emanation of serious mental health issues that in turn might hinder the normal living of an individual. Keeping this in mind, I feel that adoption of suitable strategies that cater to the needs of the individual are to be undertaken so as to provide holistic outcomes.

Application of Support Principles

In matters concerning the provision of holistic care facilities for the service users, abiding by the principles and theories related to the health and social care is imperative. Therefore, the service providers are entrusted with the vital responsibilities of fostering quality health and social care facilities without thwarting their rights and autonomy in a legally and culturally safe and competent manner. Furthermore, the variations in cultural beliefs and practices need to be carefully acknowledged by the concerned professionals to ensure harboring of positive outcomes. Working in congruity with the organizational policies and frameworks is considered as crucial factors that determine the efficacy of the care provided to the stakeholders. Hence, in this regard the principles of support have got prominent application thereby assuring smooth functioning of the health and social care system. Patients are given the opportunities to make their individual choices regarding self care. Procurement of suitable information from the patient in order to prepare proper service and care plan through effective communication, adoption of relevant and updated technologies and strategies to cater to the needs and demands of the patient are conducted in compliance with the principle of support. Information are retrieved maintain utmost confidentiality and without breaching any legal standard. Emancipation of skills and knowledge of the care personnel’s by means of inclusion of these workforces in the planning, improvisation and evaluation of services simultaneously with undertaking of regular risk management are other pivotal propositions of these principles that reaffirms the accessibility of quality care services (Glasby 2017).

Protection procedure of colleagues, patients and clients from harm

In health and social care setting, the essential objective is to maintain and safeguard the client’s needs and requirements thereby fostering health of the patient through suitable means. Workers who are engaged in activity under the organizational framework therefore must be well protected against any possible threats or challenges. The employers are held with the responsibility of offering the optimum benefits to the employees as well as the patients without posing any harm to their overall health. Therefore, identification of the risks and hazards that might interfere with the normal functioning at workplace or within the health or social care setting is an indispensable step to ensure the safety of the stakeholders involved. Harms may range from physical, mental, financial or emotional aspects. Compliance with the standards is an important criterion to assure maximal positive outcomes through provision of safe, efficient and hazard free care regimes by the care providers. Physical harm may be avoided to large extent through following of appropriate safety norms however the addressing of issues relevant to patients affected by mental harm is far more challenging. Under such circumstances provision for constant mental support and supervision is desirable achievable through restriction and compromises made with respect to freedom. Protection against emotional harm may vary depending upon situational demands since the emotional constitution of individuals vary significantly. Love, empathy and exhibition of friendly gesture are the possible solutions to such issues in conjunction with therapeutic, nutritional and pharmacologic interventions (Taylor et al. 2014). Care workers are often under the predisposition to encounter unforeseen situations during which collaborative approach of work may be useful. Relaxation of the workload in addition to time and energy management are found to beneficial in case of coalition jobs where everyone work in harmony to provide effective resolutions to major problems. In case of clients exhibiting violent and aggressive behaviors, united efforts from the colleagues are found to harbor effective results (Holme 2013). Thus various procedures may be adopted to provide protection against much harm in the concerned population.

Benefit analysis of person-centered approach for promoting wellbeing of Ms. Sharma

Person centered approach is a much sought topic in the domain of health and social care that lays adequate emphasis to safeguard the personal preferences, privacy and dignity of an individual thereby leading to greater cooperation and feedback from their ends and an increase in the faith on the care provided by the care givers. The shared decision making and appropriate responsiveness in line with the patent’s desires and choices are the primary concern for this kind of approach and calls for holistic consideration involving all ends concerned (Phelan, Stradins and Morrison 2001). Fulfillment of the needs and demands of the patient through adoption of this approach acts positively in boosting up the confidence of the clients through attention being given to their queries. In this regard, effective communication plays an important part to provide effective solution to the brimming problems pertinent to the clients. Attention is given with respect to the physical, psychological, mental and emotional health in this context to cater to the demands of the affected considering the multifactorial nature of the person centered interventions. These elements may be effectively used either singly or in combination to produce maximum benefits (Brownie and Nancarrow 2013). Pertaining to Ms. Sharma’s condition, person centered approach may offer great help in improving her overall well being and promoting her dignity and privacy.

Conflicts and ethical dilemmas in providing support and care to Ms. Sharma

Ethical dilemmas are a major concern in the health and social care practice in which the care givers remain in a dubious stance as to how to address the specific issues pertaining to the provision of care services for the distressed individuals. Contradictory circumstances pose them in challenges to handle the problems effectively. Strict compliance with the organizational policies in addition to the standard modes of practice ensures the health and well being of the patients when followed by the care givers. In the context of Ms. Sharma, the individual understanding related to the health management might give way to the development of ethical dilemma like conditions. Conflicts may emanate from matters associated with the observance of autonomy, care and dignity because of lack of trust in the community healthcare professionals accounting for change and effectiveness. Thus the health and social care services might be compromised under such pretext (Holm and Severinsson 2014). Particularly in case of Ms. Sharma it is generally perceived that she will need some medication to cope up with her physical and mental health. However, she might refuse to take medication that will challenge the position of the care givers as they are accountable for taking care and ensuring safe practices for the patients. Thus the healthcare workers are faced with grave difficulties to take a firm stand yet not compromising on the health aspect of the service user. Hence pragmatic and prudent strategies adopted by the caregivers will help to mitigate and thereby resolve the ethical dilemma issue relevant to the given situation (Doherty and Purtilo 2015). Moreover, collaborative framework in the workplace is desirable to achieve the optimum outcomes without restraining the ethical issue.

Conclusion:

The various existing health and social care practices in conjunction with theories of support thus will act in synergy to relive the symptoms of the clients in need of definite care service. Specific to the case scenario defined, these approaches may be effectively applied to bring forth suitable solutions that will improve the health and wellbeing of the affected person.

References:

Brownie, S. and Nancarrow, S., 2013. Effects of person-centered care on residents and staff in aged-care facilities: a systematic review. Clinical interventions in Aging, 8, p.1.

Doherty, R.F. and Purtilo, R.B., 2015. Ethical dimensions in the health professions. Elsevier Health Sciences.

Glasby, J., 2017. Understanding health and social care. Policy Press.

Holm, A.L. and Severinsson, E., 2014. Reflections on the ethical dilemmas involved in promoting self-management. Nursing Ethics, 21(4), pp.402-413.

Holme, A., 2013. Health and social care delivery systems. Foundations of Nursing Practice: Fundamentals of Holistic Care, p.61.

Munn-Giddings, C. and Winter, R., 2013. A handbook for action research in health and social care. Routledge.

Phelan, M., Stradins, L. and Morrison, S., 2001. Towards a global definition of patient centred care. Bmj, 322, pp.444-5.

Taylor, B.J., Killick, C., O’Brien, M., Begley, E. and Carter-Anand, J., 2014. Older people’s conceptualization of elder abuse and neglect. Journal of elder abuse & neglect, 26(3), pp.223-243.

Task two: Report

Part 1: Legislation, Policies and Procedures

Implementation of legislative and regulative codes of practice

The implementation of the policies, legislations, regulations and codes of practice in accordance with the national and local policies and legislation is considered integral in case of the health and social care service. Considering the fact that these matters are really sensitive, the care workers need to be extremely cautious and careful in abiding by the rules and regulations. The main responsibility lies with the concerned authority to maintain and supervise the stringent following of the rules and regulations connected with the provision of social care. In this regard, the employees are expected to work in compliance with the Data Protection Act for specified and lawful purposes without revealing the information to unauthorized persons (Protection and Act 2014). The caregivers are to work in congruence with numerous aspects encompassing the existing human rights, community care, children’s rights and needs, vulnerable adults, youth justice for the sake of provision of quality health care (Johns 2014). Hazardous substances and chemicals are to be kept in safe custody so that they are accessible to only authorized persons to ensure safety precautions for avoiding risks. Boards containing signs and symbols of warning are to be kept within the proximal sight of the residents of the health and social care setting to warn them of the possible dangers. Further the fire ext need to be in a clean and mess free manner by the staff so as to ensure smooth functioning. Therefore the policies and relevant legislations will be of utmost importance in health and social care practice through proper training and awareness fostered among the employees by the concerned authorities.

Developments of policies and procedures

In an effort to provide holistic solution pertinent to a given situation, policies and guidelines are framed by the competent authorities for the institutes, professionals engaged in specific domains. In this regard, mentions may be made regarding the local and national policies each having narrower and broader reach respectively. An effective amalgamation of the local and national policies serves to provide holistic benefits to the service recipients through maintenance of proper legal and ethical frameworks (Aveyard 2014). Investment of critical thinking and strategic planning to the implementation of effective practices are imperative to harbor positive results. Policies are to be comprehensive and understandable to one and all to avoid misinterpretations and confusions. Necessary amendments and modifications are to be conducted by the law makers and other competent authorities to account for driving flexible policies and regulations. Partnership works are considered crucial in this respect to represent for most suitable frameworks and recommendations pertaining to policies and practices (Glasby and Dickinson 2014). Therefore coalition among the policy makers of the local and national networks may lead to the improvisation of definite policies that cater to the needs and demands of the stakeholders involved in the processes of receiving health and social care.

Impact of regulative and legislative practice codes on the organizational policies and practice 

Legislations, rules and regulations in conjunction with the codes of practice contribute majorly to the layout of the organizational policy to facilitate the functioning of the organization. Thus the health and social care centers are to set their standards for practice in compliance with the set rules and regulations that are legal as well (Baldwin 2016). Promotion of a healthy working environment is very much essential to maintain a congenial workplace ethics. Both the employees and the employers are under the obligation of following the policies implemented with respect to the organization to ensure smooth operation devoid of any conflict of interests whatsoever.  In case of any breach of conduct or non-conformance with the established legislations, legal prosecutions are recommended for the offenders (Munn-Giddings and Winter 2013). Thus the organizational policy legally binds the employees and employers within a set framework to account for effective practices.

Part 2: Theories underpinning health and social care practice

Theories of healthcare practice for addressing Ms. Sharma

In connection with the health and social care practices, certain theories have been put forward for proper understanding of the situational contexts. Issues pertaining to the needs of the individuals along with other events and processes have been prioritized in these theories. Promotion of quality and healthy lifestyle for the requisite patients and attainment of high levels of physical, mental, spiritual, social and emotional well being these theories act as catalyst that affect these variables intrinsically. Among these, Maslow’s hierarchy needs is a famous health and social care theory in which human needs are classified into certain categories putting the emphasis on the basic needs at first. As per the propositions of this theory, on successful fulfillment of the basic needs a man strives for the next higher needs. Physical or physiological needs comprise of the fundamental needs and next safety and security, virtue of love and belongingness, self esteem and self actualization follows in a hierarchic manner. Human growth and development theory abide by the changes and modifications that account for holistic improvements through positive alterations. Theories relevant to behavior, stress management and social processes are particularly crucial in handling the diverse patients with varied sets of problems (Healy 2014). However, succinct knowledge and ability to apply these principles into real life practice pave the way for health and well being in case of patients like Ms. Sharma who feel deprived of their basic human rights.

Analysis of the impacts of the social processes on healthcare service users 

Social processes play a pivotal role to influence the behavior and perception of individuals. Adaptation of persons to certain situations, responsiveness to specific circumstances is majorly dependent on factors that determine the impact on the service users who get influenced and inspired by certain social behaviors or due to peer pressures thereby indulging in behaviors that might affect their health adversely by means of practices related to smoking or alcoholism. Distinctions of cultures among people belonging to diverse backgrounds often lead to discriminating practices of health and social care practices that are not desirable. Therefore service receivers are to be treated in a fair and equal manner to avoid biasness or favoritism behaviors (Tilly 2015).

Evaluation of the effectiveness of inter-professional working for promotion of wellbeing of Ms. Sharma

Inter-professional working among the various expert professionals in the health and social care setting generally lead to the holistic development of the client through mutual trustworthy and positive relationship in tackling the patient situation by means of contributing individual prudence and expertise. The dynamic and constant interactions among the interdisciplinary workers ensure the generation of positive outcomes. Particularly in the field of mental health, this collaborative approach is found to be more effective to yield positive outcomes (Russell et al. 2017). Pertaining to the case of Ms. Sharma, working jointly with the psychologist and other community care service givers will ensure improvement in her mental health status through proper addressing of her condition.

Part 3: Individual role in promoting good practice

Personal duties, responsibilities and roles in relation to health and social care practice

The health and social care practitioners are entrusted with the responsibility of providing a therapeutic and conducive environment for offering quality healthcare facilities. In this regard, development of effective communication strategies and good rapport with the client by the care givers is considered crucial part of the process. Further the independence of the client is safeguarded to ensure normal functioning without compromising on the rights of the service users. Physical, emotional and financial benefits of the clients are protected by the caregivers in addition to protection of the safety concerns related to the ensuing situation (Kadushin and Harkness 2014).  By virtue of maintaining the standards of practice, the caregivers are under the obligation of providing quality and holistic care facilities to the service users so as to cater to their needs and demands thereby paving the ways for uplifting their condition and enhancing their well being while they are admitted in the health and social care settings.

Evaluation of the personal contribution to the implementation and development of organizational policy

Framing of a proper and clear organizational policy is considered vital and mandatory for the purpose of smooth operation of the institution relevant to the carrying out of tasks related to health and social care services. Further in order to reduce the instances of misinterpretation and misunderstanding, an unambiguous and uniform policy layout is necessary for the working force to follow diligently in undertaking their assigned tasks in a satisfactory way. Evidence based practice and learning plays a crucial role in indicating the efficacy of the policy framed out (Aveyard and Sharp 2013). Constant improvement and efficient implementation of the policies will be fostered by means of guidance, feedback and suggestions from the registered employees who are in direct association with the patients for the sake of rendering improved health and social care. Stringent adherence and obedience of the working organizational policy by the relevant health and social care staff thus makes the way for bringing about holistic organizational changes that in turn account for enhancement of the service being offered. Timely evaluation and review of the proposed policy also suggest for identification of pertinent issues and taking measures or implicating changes accordingly.

Recommendations:

Acquisition of basic knowledge and skills relevant to a given practice is fundamental to any domain. Health and social care services are no exception to this virtue in which as caregivers we are supposed to be thorough and insightful regarding the codes of practice that define our professional competency to meet up to the demands of the service users. Evaluation of own performance by virtue of awareness regarding the latest and pertinent norms and legislations that are in vogue address the vital issues that thwart the activities of the care personnel. Both the national as well as local policies are to be carefully considered by us to indulge into good practice. General rules and regulations are to be strictly abided by us and in case if non-compliance the consequences are to be made well aware of in conjunction with the organizational policy. Moreover, training regimes in addition to following of supplementary studies are required to keep up with the latest rules and regulations, policies and interventions pertinent to health and social care practices (Dickinson and O'Flynn 2016). However, working in partnership rather than working in isolation are considered pivotal to bring out the best performance from the working professionals associated to health and social care practice.  

References:

Aveyard, H. and Sharp, P., 2013. A Beginner's Guide to Evidence-based Practice in Health and Social Care. McGraw-Hill Education (UK).

Aveyard, H., 2014. Doing a literature review in health and social care: A practical guide. McGraw-Hill Education (UK).

Baldwin, M., 2016. Social work, critical reflection and the learning organization. Routledge.

Dickinson, H. and O'Flynn, J., 2016. Evaluating outcomes in health and social care. Policy Press.

Glasby, J. and Dickinson, H., 2014. Partnership working in health and social care: what is integrated care and how can we deliver it?. Policy Press.

Healy, K., 2014. Social work theories in context: Creating frameworks for practice. Palgrave Macmillan.

Johns, R., 2014. Using the law in social work. Learning Matters.

Kadushin, A. and Harkness, D., 2014. Supervision in social work. Columbia University Press.

Munn-Giddings, C. and Winter, R., 2013. A handbook for action research in health and social care. Routledge.

Protection, M.D. and Act, D.D.P., 2014. Data Protection Policy.

Russell, R.G., Davidson, H., Rhoads, C. and Petrusa, E.R., 2017. How do we understand the determinants of health? An exploration of distributed knowledge and interprofessional health sciences education. Journal of Interprofessional Care, 31(1), pp.118-121.

Tilly, C., 2015. Explaining social processes. Routledge.