Module Name: Care Skills 5N2770

Student Name: Nikhil Philip

PPS Number: 9352521IA

Email: nikhilandnikhil@gmail.com

Date of Birth: 07/06/1990

Address: Apartment 16, The Barge

Market point, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath

 Part 1 | Assignment 1
This assignment will explore the various issues that need to be considered when caring
for an elderly person, specifically Patrick, who is 82 years old and blind. It will discuss
the physical, emotional, social, psychological, and spiritual issues that need to be taken
into account when caring for an elderly person. The assignment will also highlight the
different care needs of blind and sighted residents, with a particular focus on dressing
and eating requirements. Lastly, it will describe how a healthcare worker can support
and assist Patrick in satisfying his social needs. Overall, this assignment has highlighted
the importance of a person-centred approach in elderly care. Every individual has
unique needs, and it is essential to understand and address those needs for optimal
outcomes (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2017)

Physical, emotional, social, psychological, and spiritual issues to be aware

of when caring for an elderly person:

Introduction

Physical, emotional, social, psychological, and spiritual difficulties are prevalent among
the elderly. For carers to provide full care and support to their senior clients, they must
be aware of these difficulties.

Physical Problems

Mobility concerns, chronic disease, and sensory impairments, such as vision and
hearing loss, are examples of physical issues that may affect the elderly. Sensory
impairments can impede daily activities, hence increasing a person's reliance on others
for support.

Emotional Problems

Depression, anxiety, loneliness, and bereavement are all emotional difficulties that can
affect the elderly. Several factors can negatively affect emotional and psychological
health.

Social Problems
Isolation, lack of social connection, and diminished independence are social problems
that elderly people may face. These problems might be the result of physical, mental, or
psychological concerns and can have a severe effect on overall health.

Psychological Problems

The aged may feel cognitive decline, memory loss, and bewilderment as psychological
difficulties. These difficulties might have an impact on daily activities and health as a
whole.

Spiritual Problems

Seniors may experience a lack of purpose, faith, or connection to their cultural or

religious community, which is a spiritual issue.

Considering Problems

As a carer, you must be aware of these difficulties and understand how they can impact
the life of an aged person. Caregivers can address these concerns by encouraging
participation in social activities, connecting patients with support groups or counselling
services, or offering access to technology that facilitate everyday navigation. Caregivers
can also be a source of emotional and psychological support for their older clients,
aiding them in coping with feelings of isolation and purposelessness. Providing senior
clients with complete care and assistance can help them keep their independence and
quality of life.

As a caregiver, it is essential to be aware of these issues and understand how they can
affect an elderly person's life. In Patrick's case, caregivers can take steps to address his
isolation by encouraging him to participate in social activities, connecting him with
support groups or counselling services, or providing him with access to technologies
that can help him navigate his daily activities more easily. Caregivers can also be a
source of emotional and psychological support for Patrick, helping him cope with any
feelings of loneliness or loss of purpose. By providing comprehensive care and support,
caregivers can help elderly clients like Patrick maintain their independence and quality
of life.
 Different care needs between Patrick, who is blind and a sighted resident:

Caring for a blind resident like Patrick requires different approaches than caring for a
sighted resident. When it comes to dressing, caregivers must consider Patrick's inability
to see colours and patterns. They should use tactile cues, such as raised dots or Braille,
to help Patrick identify clothing items. Clothing that is easy to put on and take off, such
as Velcro-fastened or elasticated garments, may also be beneficial. It is also essential to
keep Patrick's clothing organised to avoid confusion and to ensure that he can find what
he needs independently. It can also be useful to have a sighted resident around, such
as a family member or friend, who can aid with dressing and identify clothing items. In
order to fully comprehend Patrick's requirements and preferences and to give advice on
how to support him effectively, carers can collaborate with the resident who is sighted.

Regarding eating needs, caregivers should take into account Patrick's sensory
impairment. They should provide clear verbal instructions on the layout of his plate,
such as where the meat, vegetables, and starch are located. Caregivers should also
describe the food they are serving, including the flavour, texture, and temperature, to
ensure Patrick knows what he is eating. When feeding Patrick, caregivers must provide
cues such as tapping the spoon on the bowl or verbally notifying Patrick when the
spoon is near his mouth.

Supporting Patrick's social needs:

As Patrick has become increasingly isolated, it is essential to support his social needs.
Caregivers should encourage Patrick to engage in social activities that align with his
interests and abilities, such as playing music or attending a book club. Patrick and other
older people frequently experience social isolation, which can be harmful to their
physical and mental health. Promoting social activities can help to address this issue
and increase general well-being.

To make sure that Patrick enjoys the activity and is encouraged to engage, it is essential
to participate in social activities that are compatible with his interests and skills. Patrick
can interact with like-minded people and take part in intriguing talks and activities by, for
instance, playing music or joining a reading club. They should also facilitate visits from
friends and family and provide opportunities for socialisation with other residents in the
facility. Communication is crucial in supporting Patrick's social needs. Caregivers should
engage in active listening, initiate conversations, and show interest in Patrick's life and
experiences (National Council of State Boards of Nursing, 2017).

Caregivers must also be aware of the emotional and psychological impact of vision loss
on the elderly (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2017). This includes
feelings of anxiety, depression, and social withdrawal. By providing appropriate support
and counselling, healthcare workers can help elderly residents like Patrick adjust to their
condition and maintain a positive outlook on life.

Reflection on key learning achieved during this assignment:

Through this assignment, I have gained a deeper understanding of the unique

challenges that come with caring for an elderly person, particularly those who are blind.
It has highlighted the importance of considering physical, emotional, social,
psychological, and spiritual well-being when providing care. Additionally, it has
emphasised the significance of providing person-centred care that is tailored to meet
the specific needs of each individual (American Nurses Association, 2017). Lastly, it has
highlighted the crucial role that caregivers play in supporting the social needs of their
elderly clients and the benefits that socialisation can bring to their overall well-being.

In conclusion, caring for an elderly person requires a holistic approach that takes into
account their physical, emotional, social, psychological, and spiritual well-being. When
caring for a blind resident like Patrick, caregivers must be mindful of the unique
challenges faced by individuals who are visually impaired. These challenges include
dressing and eating needs, as well as the risk of social isolation (Registered Nurses'
Association of Ontario, 2017). Addressing these challenges is essential to promote the
overall well-being and quality of life of elderly residents like Patrick.

Moreover, providing care to elderly individuals like Patrick requires sensitivity, empathy,
and a patient-centred approach. Adequate training and education for healthcare workers
are essential to ensure effective care and support for elderly residents in different
situations. By addressing their unique needs and challenges, healthcare workers can
help elderly individuals like Patrick maintain their independence, dignity, and overall
quality of life.

Part 1 | Assignment 2
Mary is a patient who recently underwent surgery and has a colostomy device. This has
led to significant changes in her daily life and can be a challenging transition. This
assignment will outline the issues that need to be considered when attending to Mary's
personal care needs post-surgery. It will also discuss the best practices for stoma care,
including how to dispose of waste materials safely. Lastly, the assignment will describe
how a healthcare worker can support Mary in maintaining her dignity, enhancing her
independence, and promoting a positive self-image.

1. Issues to be aware of when attending to Mary's personal care needs post-

surgery:

When attending to Mary's personal care needs post-surgery, caregivers should be

aware of her physical and emotional needs. Fatigue following surgery is a common
problem that Mary could have. She should be given ample sleep, and her carers should
help her out with daily tasks as needed. According to the procedure, Mary can also
experience pain or discomfort that needs to be carefully managed to encourage
recovery and avert complications. They should provide appropriate care to the stoma
site and be familiar with any signs of infection or other complications. Caregivers should
also be sensitive to Mary's emotional state and provide emotional support as needed.
The privacy should be maintained during personal care tasks, and Mary should be
encouraged to ask questions or voice any concerns she may have.

Best practices in relation to stoma care:

The best practices for stoma care include the following:

 Regularly inspecting the stoma site for signs of infection, such as redness,
swelling, or discharge.
 Using appropriate cleaning solutions and techniques to clean the stoma site and
surrounding skin.
  Applying a protective barrier cream or powder to prevent skin irritation or
breakdown.
 Using the correct size and type of ostomy appliance to fit the stoma.
 Ensuring that the ostomy appliance is secure and does not leak.

One of the key considerations when providing care to a patient with a colostomy device
is infection prevention and control. Stoma sites can be particularly susceptible to
infection, and it is important to follow best practices for stoma care to minimise the risk
of complications (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2017). This includes
regularly inspecting the stoma site for signs of infection, using appropriate cleaning
solutions, applying protective barrier creams, and ensuring the ostomy appliance is
secure and does not leak (World Health Organisation, 2018). Additionally, caregivers
should take appropriate precautions when handling waste materials and equipment that
comes into contact with the stoma site to prevent the spread of infection.

Supporting Mary in maintaining her dignity, enhancing her independence,

and promoting a positive self-image:

To support Mary in maintaining her dignity, caregivers should involve her in her care as
much as possible. They should explain each step of the process and encourage her to
participate in the care of her stoma. Caregivers should also ensure that Mary has
access to appropriate clothing and supplies that allow her to feel comfortable and
confident.

To enhance Mary's independence, caregivers should provide her with education and
training on stoma care. They should also work with Mary to establish a care routine that
is tailored to her needs and abilities (Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario, 2017).
Caregivers should encourage Mary to be as self-sufficient as possible while providing
assistance when needed.

To promote a positive self-image, caregivers should focus on the positive aspects of

Mary's progress and achievements. They should praise her for her efforts and provide
emotional support when needed (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2017).
Caregivers should also promote a positive attitude towards stoma care and provide
information on support groups or other resources that can help Mary adjust to her new
lifestyle.

Another important aspect of caring for a patient with a colostomy device is promoting
their dignity, independence, and positive self-image. At the same time, caregivers must
be sensitive to the patient's emotional needs, providing emotional support and
promoting a positive attitude towards stoma care. Access to appropriate clothing and
supplies that allow the patient to feel comfortable and confident is also crucial.

Infection prevention and control:

To prevent the spread of infection, caregivers should follow appropriate infection

prevention and control measures. This includes wearing appropriate personal protective
equipment, such as gloves and gowns when caring for Mary's stoma. Waste materials
should be disposed of in a sealed container, and any equipment that comes into contact
with Mary's stoma should be appropriately cleaned and disinfected. To stop the spread
of infection, dirty linens must be handled and disposed of properly. While handling
soiled linens, carers should put on gloves and put the items straight into a plastic bag
without shaking them first. The bag should be tied tightly and placed into a second bag
before being disposed of. To achieve proper disinfection, linens should be washed in hot
water with detergent and bleach. Also, any surfaces that come into contact with soiled
sheets should be cleaned and disinfected by carers.

Reflection on key learning achieved during this assignment:

Through this assignment, I have gained a deeper understanding of the importance of

providing comprehensive care to patients with a colostomy device. It has highlighted the
significance of attending to both the physical and emotional needs of the patient, as well
as promoting their independence and self-image. Additionally, it has emphasised the
importance of following infection prevention and control measures to prevent the spread
of infection. Lastly, it has demonstrated the benefits of providing education and support
to patients, which can help them adjust to their new lifestyle. Reflecting on the learning
achieved during this assignment, it is clear that providing care to patients with a
colostomy device requires a holistic approach. Caregivers must attend to both the
physical and emotional needs of the patient while following best practices for stoma
care and infection prevention and control (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,
2017). Providing education and support to patients can be particularly beneficial in
helping them adjust to their new lifestyle and promoting their overall well-being.

Part 2 | Skill Demonstration 1

Introduction and Aims

Providing high-quality care that prioritises the safety, comfort, and privacy of clients is
the cornerstone of my work as a caregiver at Sancta Maria Nursing Home in Kinnagad
Co. Meath, Ireland. As a caregiver at Sancta Maria Nursing Home in Kinnagad Co.
Meath, Ireland, I prioritise the safety, comfort, and privacy of all clients. Before
performing any tasks, I review the care plan to ensure that I have up-to-date information
about the client's health condition and needs, especially if the client is bedridden
(National Council of State Boards of Nursing, 2017). If the risk assessment indicates
that multiple staff members are required for a particular task, I request assistance from
my colleagues. To respect the client's autonomy, I always obtain their consent before
proceeding with any task. I also inquire about their preferences, concerns, and cultural
or religious considerations, such as gender or modesty. For example, some elderly
clients prefer someone of the same gender to assist them with personal care tasks.

As a healthcare worker, it is crucial to have a thorough understanding of the needs of

patients with a colostomy device. This requires not only knowledge of the physical
aspects of stoma care but also an appreciation for the emotional impact of living with a
colostomy (American Nurses Association, 2017). A patient's self-image and
independence can be profoundly affected by the presence of a colostomy device, and
healthcare workers must be sensitive to these issues.

Healthcare Professional Supplies

In general, healthcare professionals may need to use the following supplies:

 gloves
 a stoma measuring guide
  a stoma bag or pouch
 adhesive removal wipes
 stoma paste or powder

While caring for a patient with a colostomy device. During caring for the stoma, the
gloves are used to maintain infection prevention and control methods. To verify that the
stoma bag or pouch is the proper size, utilise the stoma measuring guide. The waste
from the stoma is collected using a stoma bag or pouch. The stoma paste or powder is
used to add an extra layer of protection for the skin surrounding the stoma, and the
adhesive remover wipes are used to remove any adhesive residue from the skin. Also,
it's critical to communicate with the client and offer information and support when caring
for a patient who has a colostomy device in order to assist them keep their
independence and sense of self.

Implementation

To ensure a safe and effective bed bath for the client, I begin by explaining the
procedure and obtaining consent before proceeding. I prepare all the necessary items
and place them within easy reach.

Bed Bath Requirements

An average bed bath requires a basin of hot water, soap or cleanser, washcloths,
towels, and gloves for the carer. A hairdryer, if requested by the client, a disposable
cushion to sit on in case of spills, and a waterproof cover to protect the bed are some of
the other items that may be required. To maintain privacy, I close doors and windows
and adjust the room temperature as necessary. I wash my hands and wear gloves and
an apron to prevent the spread of microorganisms. I use a bath thermometer to ensure
the water temperature is between 38-41 degrees Celsius and fill the basin with warm
water.

I covered the client with a soft blanket, only exposing the area to be washed. I gently
wipe the client's face, neck, and ears with mild soap and rinse off the soap. I encourage
the client to wash their own face if able. I proceed to wash the rest of the body one part
at a time, making sure to keep the client covered as much as possible. I help the client
roll onto their side to wash their back, being careful to prevent falls.

When washing the genital and anus areas, I wear disposable gloves to minimise the risk
of infection. After washing, I make sure to dry the skin thoroughly before applying any
moisturiser or prescribed ointment to prevent pressure sores (American Nurses
Association, 2017). I assist the client in putting on clean clothes, brushing their hair, and
applying deodorant or perfume. I use the correct manual handling procedures and
equipment to help the client transfer from the bed to a chair. I ensure that the
emergency call bell is within reach and tidy the room, and clean/disinfect all equipment
used.

Efficient Verbal Interaction During a Bed Bath

Throughout the bed bath, I communicate effectively with the client, asking questions
and listening to their concerns. I pay attention to my facial expressions and tone of
voice, keeping conversations and words simple and clear (National Council of State
Boards of Nursing, 2017). Before starting the task, I coordinate with my colleague to
agree on who will lead the task and instruct the procedure to avoid accidents and
confusion. Finally, I inspect the client's skin for pressure areas or cuts and inform the
nurse in charge of any concerns. To communicate effectively with a client when giving
them a bath in bed, it is important to speak clearly, listen attentively, and keep in mind
that the customer deserves to be treated with respect. It also entails paying attention to
and responding to nonverbal clues like facial expressions and body language. The
client's trust and sense of safety can be increased via open and honest conversation,
which is especially important in the intimate setting of a bed and bath.

Evaluation
After completing the bed bath procedure, I ensure to document all the care provided in
the system used in our work and communicate with my colleagues about the tasks
completed. As a healthcare assistant, I understand that I can play a crucial role in
treating the resident by providing emotional support with empathy and calmness. Paying
attention to and listening to the client can help alleviate their concerns while living in a
Nursing Home. Through this experience, I have learned the importance of providing
care in accordance with the patient's preferences and maintaining their privacy
(Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario, 2017). I also understand that with more
experience and practice in performing different tasks, I will gain more confidence in my
abilities. As noted in the case study, communication is a key factor in providing quality
care, and it is essential to coordinate with colleagues to avoid accidents and confusion.

Working in the medical field, I know how vital it is to emphasise the patient's autonomy
and respect for themselves at all times. In order to make the customer feel more at
ease, I gave them several options to choose from and gave them as much say as I
could in the process of the bed bath. Their preferences for shower temperature, soap,
and body parts washed were all taken into account. I also made sure the client had
enough privacy by utilising curtains and drapes around the bed and just showing the
bare minimum of skin.

Moreover, I made it a point to push and guide the customer towards self-sufficiency. I
made sure they had all they needed, including a washcloth and soap, and I helped them
clean the more inaccessible parts of their bodies while they washed their own faces,
arms, and legs. To help them keep their equilibrium when standing or sitting, I provided
verbal clues and suggestions.
 Part 2 | Skill Demonstration 2

Introduction

Oral care is an essential part of maintaining a resident's health and hygiene in a nursing
home setting, and as a healthcare assistant at Sancta Maria Nursing Home in
Kinnagad, Co. Meath, Ireland, I take pride in providing high-quality care to all of our
residents. Today, I will be demonstrating my approach to assisting Mary Fahi with her
oral care, emphasising the importance of safety, privacy, and effective communication
throughout the procedure.

As an experienced healthcare assistant at Sancta Maria Nursing Home in Kinnagad,

Co. Meath, Ireland, I have been assisting residents with their oral care for the past 10
months. In this demonstration, I will outline and demonstrate my ability to assist a
resident, Mary Fahi, with her oral care. My aim is to ensure that Mary is comfortable and
that her privacy is respected throughout the procedure (National Council of State
Boards of Nursing, 2017). Before starting, I will explain the procedure to Mary and seek
her consent. I will also ensure that I am wearing appropriate personal protective
equipment, including gloves and an apron, and that the room is comfortable and free
from distractions. The items that I will need include a toothbrush, toothpaste,
mouthwash, water, a basin, and a towel. I will also document the procedure in Mary's
records.

Implementation

Providing proper oral care is an essential part of maintaining the health and well-being
of residents in nursing homes. As I begin the oral care procedure for the residents of
Sancta Maria Nursing Home, including Mary, I first explain the procedure and obtain
their consent. I ensure that the environment is safe and free from hazards, with enough
space to move around. I check that the clients are comfortably seated or lying down
with their heads well-supported to prevent choking or swallowing water. I wash and dry
my hands before wearing gloves and an apron for personal protection. I close the
windows to prevent drafts and close the doors and curtains to maintain privacy. For the
oral care procedure, I gather the necessary items, including a toothbrush, toothpaste,
mouthwash, water, basin, and towel. I select the appropriate toothbrush for each client
based on their care plan and use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste or dip the
toothbrush in fluoride mouthwash. Starting at the back of the mouth, I gently draw back
the lips and use short strokes to clean the bottom teeth, then repeat the process for the
top teeth. If a client wears dentures, I safely remove them and clean all surfaces using a
small soft toothbrush and lukewarm water, ensuring not to damage the dentures if
dropped. After the procedure, I dispose of my gloves and apron and perform hygienic
handwashing. Throughout the procedure, I observe the client's gums and tongue and
report any variations, such as cuts or coated tongue, to the nurse (World Health
Organization, 2018). I document the care provided in the system used in Sancta Maria
Nursing Home. Effective communication is vital in healthcare systems, particularly in
nursing homes where social interactions are limited. Therefore, I communicate with the
client, listen to their worries, and give them time to talk. I maintain a clear and simple
tone of voice, and I am mindful of my facial expressions. Before starting the task, I
coordinate with my colleague and agree on who will lead the task to prevent accidents
and confusion.

Evaluation

Proper documentation is crucial in the nursing home environment. As such, I will ensure
to document essential information such as the identity of the resident, the exact time
and location of the procedure, and the individuals who participated in it. In addition, any
unusual occurrences that I witness will be documented objectively without any opinions,
judgments, conclusions or assumptions about the event's cause (National Council of
State Boards of Nursing, 2017). As a healthcare assistant, I understand the importance
of providing emotional support and empathy to the resident while performing the task.
By actively listening and paying attention to the resident's needs and preferences, I can
create a comfortable environment that promotes their well-being and maintains their
privacy. Throughout the procedure, I gained valuable experience in providing care for
residents with varying needs and preferences, which has increased my confidence in
performing such tasks.
 References
American Nurses Association. (2015). Nursing: Scope and standards of practice (3rd
ed.). Silver Spring, MD: American Nurses Association.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2017). Hand hygiene in healthcare
settings. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/handhygiene/index.html
National Council of State Boards of Nursing. (2017). NCSBN guidelines for delegation
and the registered nurse. Retrieved from https://www.ncsbn.org/1240.htm
Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario. (2017). Best practice guideline: Client-
centred care. Retrieved from https://rnao.ca/bpg/guidelines/client-centred-care
World Health Organization. (2018). Global strategy on people-centred and integrated
health services. Retrieved from
https://www.who.int/servicedeliverysafety/areas/people-centred-care/global-
strategy/en/