ICTQual Level 3 Award in Nursing Studies – Patient Care and Hygiene

Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:

Introduction to Nursing and Healthcare

1. Understand the Structure of Healthcare Systems:
   • Describe the different types of healthcare systems and their functions.
   • Identify various healthcare settings and the roles they play in patient care.
2. Recognize the Roles and Responsibilities of Nurses:
   • Explain the scope of practice for nurses in various healthcare environments.
   • Understand the responsibilities and duties of nurses, including patient advocacy and care coordination.
3. Apply Ethical and Legal Principles in Nursing:
   • Discuss ethical dilemmas commonly faced in nursing.
   • Identify key legal issues in healthcare, including patient rights and professional responsibilities.

Human Anatomy and Physiology

1. Understand Basic Human Anatomy and Physiology:
   • Describe the structure and functions of the major body systems.
   • Explain the interrelationship between different body systems.
2. Identify Body System Functions and Common Disorders:
   • Recognize the normal functions of body systems and identify common disorders.
   • Understand how diseases impact the body’s homeostasis.
3. Apply Knowledge of Physiology in Patient Care:
   • Utilize knowledge of anatomy and physiology to assess patient conditions.
   • Explain how physiological principles guide nursing interventions.

Patient Care and Support

1. Perform Patient Assessments and Monitoring:
   • Demonstrate techniques for assessing patient conditions and monitoring vital signs.
   • Understand the importance of accurate documentation in patient care.
2. Develop and Implement Care Plans:
   • Create individualized care plans based on patient needs.
   • Evaluate the effectiveness of care plans and make necessary adjustments.
3. Deliver Basic Nursing Care:
   • Provide essential nursing care, including assistance with daily living activities.
   • Understand the principles of patient mobility and wound care.

Hygiene and Infection Control

1. Understand Principles of Hygiene in Healthcare:
   • Explain the importance of personal and environmental hygiene.
   • Identify common hygiene practices in healthcare settings.
2. Implement Infection Control Measures:
   • Demonstrate proper hand hygiene and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
   • Understand sterilization techniques and aseptic procedures.
3. Apply Aseptic Techniques:
   • Perform aseptic techniques to prevent contamination during medical procedures.
   • Recognize the importance of infection control in patient safety.

Communication in Healthcare

1. Develop Effective Communication Skills:
   • Use verbal and non-verbal communication techniques effectively.
   • Demonstrate active listening skills and empathy in patient interactions.
2. Enhance Patient Interaction:
   • Build rapport and trust with patients and their families.
   • Communicate clearly and compassionately with diverse patient populations.
3. Collaborate with Healthcare Teams:
   • Work effectively within a multidisciplinary healthcare team.
   • Understand the role of communication in ensuring coordinated patient care.

Basic Life Support and First Aid

1. Perform CPR and Use AEDs:
   • Demonstrate the steps of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for adults, children, and infants.
   • Understand the operation and application of automated external defibrillators (AEDs).
2. Manage Medical Emergencies:
   • Identify and provide initial care for common medical emergencies.
   • Understand the principles of emergency first aid and patient stabilization.
3. Recognize Early Signs of Deterioration:
   • Identify early warning signs of patient deterioration.
   • Implement appropriate interventions and escalate care when necessary.

Medication Management

1. Understand Safe Medication Administration:
   • Explain the principles of safe medication administration, including the “five rights”.
   • Demonstrate accurate medication dosage calculations.
2. Apply Pharmacology Basics in Nursing:
   • Understand drug classifications, mechanisms of action, and side effects.
   • Administer medications safely and monitor patient responses.
3. Recognize and Report Medication Errors:
   • Identify common causes of medication errors and strategies to prevent them.
   • Understand the importance of reporting and documenting medication errors.

Nutrition and Hydration

1. Understand Nutritional Needs of Patients:
   • Explain the dietary requirements for different patient populations.
   • Understand the role of nutrition in maintaining health and managing diseases.
2. Promote Proper Hydration:
   • Recognize the signs of dehydration and the importance of maintaining hydration.
   • Assist patients with fluid intake and monitor hydration levels.
3. Assist with Feeding and Dietary Plans:
   • Provide assistance to patients with eating and ensure safe swallowing.
   • Develop and implement dietary plans that meet patient needs.

Personal Development and Reflective Practice

1. Engage in Self-Assessment and Reflective Practice:
   • Use self-assessment tools to evaluate personal strengths and areas for improvement.
   • Apply reflective practices to enhance nursing skills and professional growth.
2. Pursue Professional Development Opportunities:
   • Identify and participate in continuing education and professional development activities.
   • Understand the importance of lifelong learning in nursing.
3. Manage Work-Related Stress:
   • Recognize the signs of work-related stress and employ stress management techniques.
   • Develop resilience and coping strategies to maintain personal well-being.