Unit 9: Empowering Users of Health and Social Care Services

Unit code:                D/601/1598

QCF level:                QCF Level 4/ NFQ Level 6

Credit value:            15

Aim

The aim of this unit is to enable learners to explore how to empower individuals using health and social care services in order to maximise their independence.

Unit abstract

It is essential for all health and social care professionals to understand that the service they deliver enables individuals to participate in the decisions that are made about their lives.

First, learners will explore how legislation and the sector skills standards regarding the design and review of services promote independence, which in turn is captured within organisational policies and procedures. Second, learners will investigate factors that can affect participation, independence and choice, including systems for assessing and minimising risk. Finally, learners    will investigate the administration of medicine and the effectiveness of policies and procedures   for administering medication in achieving the best possible outcomes for users of services.

Learners will study legislation and factors that affect the care that is received. Learners will also examine strategies to promote the best possible outcomes for individual users of services.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this unit a learner will:

1. Understand how the design and review of services promotes and maximises the rights of users of health and social care services
2. Understand how to promote the participation and independence of users of health and social  care services
3. Understand the responsibility of managing and monitoring risks in health and social care settings
4. Understand how good practice in the administration of medicine is essential for users of health and social care  services.