Platform 6 : Acute care (children’s high dependency unit)

Platform 6: Improving safety and quality of care

Proficiencies

6.2 understand the relationship between safe staffing levels, appropriate skills mix, safety and quality of care, recognising risks to public protection and quality of care, escalating concerns appropriately

6.3 comply with local and national frameworks, legislation and regulations for assessing, managing and reporting risks, ensuring the appropriate action is taken

6.5 demonstrate the ability to accurately undertake risk assessments in a range of care settings, using a range of contemporary assessment and improvement tool.

6.9 work with people, their families, carers and colleagues to develop effective improvement strategies for quality and safety, sharing feedback and learning from positive outcomes and experiences, mistakes and adverse outcomes and experiences

What Alexis did

To ensure Freddie’s safety, Alexis contributed to risk assessments throughout the shift, particularly in relation to his suspected head injury. Prior to confirmation of imaging results, appropriate precautions were taken when moving and handling Freddie to minimise the risk of further harm.

Alexis observed and participated in safe manual handling practices, ensuring that all staff involved in Freddie’s care were aware of current guidance and his individual needs. Following confirmation that no head injury was present, Alexis supported the review and updating of risk assessments to reflect his current condition and mobility.

Freddie’s mobility was regularly reassessed, and Alexis documented that he was able to walk for short distances and use a commode independently within his bed space. This information was clearly communicated to the wider team to support safe and consistent care. Alexis recognised how updating risk assessments supported continuity of care and reduced variation in practice across the team.

Alexis also worked collaboratively with Freddie and his parents, recognising their knowledge of his usual level of function and independence. This supported accurate assessment of his baseline mobility and informed safe care planning during his recovery.

What this demonstrates

• Alexis demonstrated the ability to undertake and contribute to risk assessments, ensuring care was adapted in response to Freddie’s changing condition (6.5)
• She recognised the importance of safe moving and handling and adherence to local policies to reduce the risk of harm (6.3)
• Alexis contributed to maintaining safety by ensuring that up-to-date information about Freddie’s mobility and risks was communicated clearly to the team (6.2, 6.5)
• She demonstrated understanding of the need to continuously review and update risk assessments to reflect current clinical findings (6.3, 6.5)
• Alexis worked in partnership with Freddie and his family to inform care planning, recognising their role in supporting safe and effective care (6.9)
• She contributed to promoting consistency and quality of care by ensuring accurate documentation and communication of risk-related information (6.2, 6.3)

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