Assist in the transfer and positioning of individuals within the perioperative environment

​This standard covers assisting in the preparation of individuals and use of equipment for transfers and precise positioning for clinical procedures within the perioperative environment.

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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. provide support to the individual and ensure health and safety measures are implemented at all times
7. refer to the individual's risk assessment documentation for pressure area scoring system to check position and equipment required
8. ensure the required positioning equipment is available, fit for purpose and ready for use before beginning the positioning procedure
9. prepare the immediate surroundings appropriately for the transfer, move and position required, removing any potential hazards
10. move and handle the individual during transfer, movement and positioning in a way which minimises their pain, discomfort and friction, maintains their safety and maximises their dignity
11. use safe and suitable moving and handling techniques ensuring:
    • you avoid exceeding your personal weight and reach limits
    • endangering the individual
    • endangering other members of staff
    • causing damage to equipment or the environment
      
12. use positioning equipment safely and correctly in line with manufacturers' instructions and organisational policies
13. promptly report any unexpected change in the individual's condition to the appropriate member of the care team
14. confirm with the relevant practitioner that the individual is in the correct position to:
    • facilitate the clinical procedure
    • maintain skin integrity
    • avoid nerve damage
      
15. use appropriate equipment:
    • for preventing injury
    • promoting individual comfort
    • preventing heat loss
      
16. contribute to the assessment and evaluation of the individuals skin integrity and document as appropriate
17. 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. the importance of checking pressure area risk assessment documentation prior to commencing positioning activities
13. how individuals may be able or unable to contribute to the transferring and positioning process and factors which limit their contribution
14. safe methods and techniques for transferring and positioning individuals
15. the importance of co-ordinating actions effectively with others involved
16. the skin and musculo-skeletal system and anatomical alignment in relation to transferring and positioning individuals for clinical activities
17. the types, purpose and function equipment used for moving, handling and transferring individuals
18. methods for checking and preparing equipment ready for use
19. how to use the equipment safely
20. the importance of close observation of individuals during transfers, moves and positioning
21. the importance of ensuring freedom of passage before transferring individuals
22. the purpose and importance of precise, accurate and stable positioning for perioperative procedures
23. the effects of medication on individuals and the difference this makes to the way they should be handled
24. how to complete and safely store all relevant documentation in accordance with organisational requirements

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2

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2026

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Current

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Original

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Skills for Health

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SFHPCS23

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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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Perioperative, care, assist, transfer, positioning

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