Assist the practitioner to implement healthcare activities

This standard applies to anyone whose role requires them to work under the direction of a registered practitioner to offer assistance during clinical or therapeutic interventions.  Within this standard the term activity refers to any healthcare (clinical/therapeutic) activity where there is a registered practitioner carrying out the work role.  This standard covers the assistant's role in supporting the practitioner within the context of surgery, a recovery suite, ward round activity, therapeutic interventions, or clinical procedures.  The focus of the standard is on being effective in an assisting role rather than the clinical/therapeutic skills involved in the intervention, which are covered by other standard.

This standard is applicable to a wide range of health contexts and roles in emergency, primary and secondary care.  It may include individuals in conscious or unconscious states.

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1. access and accurately interpret all relevant work instructions and information
2. work safely at all times and in accordance with all relevant legislation, guidelines, policies, procedures and protocols
3. deal promptly and effectively with any problems within your control and report those which cannot be solved
4. identify and minimise hazards and risk in the workplace
5. communicate with the individual and key people at a pace, in a manner and at a level appropriate to the individual's understanding, preferences and needs
6. respect the individual's rights and wishes relating to their privacy, beliefs, and dignity
7. gain valid, informed consent from the individual in accordance with specific procedures
8. confirm identity of the individual in accordance with organisational procedures
9. ensure effective infection control at all times
10. respond promptly to requests and directions from the practitioner leading the activity
11. carry out delegated activities following the protocols and procedures related to the activity in accordance with the individual's care/treatment plan
12. collaborate effectively and proactively during actions that require close team working
13. communicate required information to others clearly, accurately and in a timely fashion 
14. ensure you maintain the confidentiality of  information in accordance with organisational requirements
15. dispose of waste in accordance with organisational procedures
16. complete and store all relevant documentation in accordance with organisational requirements

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1. the current legislation, guidelines, policies, procedures and protocols which are relevant to your work practice and to which you must adhere
2. the scope and limitations of your own competence, responsibilities and accountability as it applies to your job role
3. how to access and interpret all relevant work instructions and information
4. specific procedures for reporting issues which are beyond your competence, responsibilities and accountability
5. the duty to report any acts or omissions that could be unsafe/detrimental to you or others
6. the hazards and risks which may arise during the execution of your work role and how you can minimise these
7. how to adapt communication styles in ways which are appropriate to the needs of the individual  
8. the correct use of any equipment and PPE to protect the health and safety of you and others
9. the principles, practice and procedures associated with informed consent
10. the needs of individuals and carers including issues relating to dignity, confidentiality, and privacy
11. organisational management structures, roles, and responsibilities
12. how to obtain positive confirmation of an individual's identity in accordance with organisational procedures
13. the type and range of information that might be needed by the practitioner prior to or during the course of an activity
14. how to explain  your assisting role and procedures to individuals and relevant carers in terms that they will understand
15. protocols and procedures relating to the activity to be undertaken
16. the importance of following standard precautions relevant to the activity and the potential consequences of poor practice
17. organisational policies and guidance relating to the moving and positioning of individuals and the impact they have upon your work
18. types of information it is appropriate to give others about an individual's programme and treatment
19. how to dispose of waste in accordance with organisational procedures
20. how to complete and safely store all relevant documentation in accordance with organisational requirements

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2

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31 Mar 2026

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Current

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Original

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Skills for Health

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SFHGEN8

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Health and Social Care, Health and Social Services Officers, Health Associate Professionals, Health Professionals, Health, Public Services and Care, Healthcare and Related Personal Services

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2259

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Assist, practitioner, implement, healthcare

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