Do you know what duty of care means?
We hear the phrase ‘duty of care’ all the time, especially in the health and social care industry. But, a lot of people don’t know what it actually means when it comes down to it and what responsibilities are expected from them.
To keep it simple, we often have a duty of care to keep other people safe, protecting them from harm and bad situations, whether it’s caused by themselves or others.
Usually, this duty arises from a working relationship, like a client or patient, as well as to towards other employees and even your organization.
Of course, we aren’t just talking about a moral obligation. Having a duty of care is a legal obligation too. In this respect, you don’t have a choice what your responsibilities are – you are expected to follow them to the best of your abilities to abide by company and legal rules.
This is why it’s important to learn all about duty of care and what your responsibilities are so you can do everything right.
In addition, it’s essential to know what’s expected of you so you can figure out what you should do if something goes wrong. Both employees and managers can benefit from training on this subject and this is where a duty of care training course will help.
Supporting Independence
Things can get complicated, especially when your duty of care clashes with someone’s individual rights. For example, if a patient makes a choice that you disagree with or you feel is unsafe.
It’s crucial to remember that you can advise someone and even carry out a risk assessment, but ultimately, it’s their choice and you can’t decide for them. Your duty of care is to promote wellbeing and safety, but not control the situation.
You’ve got to respect individual rights, promote independence and enable the person to make an informed choice on their own. The only exception to this is if the individual lacks the capability to understand the choices they are making due to a mental capacity issue.
Errors and Complaints: Part 1
Duty of care includes supporting individuals with complaints and this even applies if it’s to do with the care you’ve provided. This section explains that the best way to deal with comments is quickly and as positively as possible.
Complaints are a learning opportunity for you and you can use it as a way to look for improvements. In addition, it’s also required by legislation and local authorities to listen to patient comments.
It’s all about creating an environment where there’s an honest approach to dealing with someone’s comments or complaints.
Ways you can do this include providing a private setting, adhering to confidentiality, using active listening skills, not judging someone, offering support and thanking them for feedback.
Why is a duty of care training course important?
It’s always vital that employees know what’s expected of them and are aware of their responsibilities in the workplace, especially towards patients and colleagues.
With a duty of care training course, employees can be clear on what their role includes, as well as what they can do if they experience a problem regarding their duty of care.
This will make sure that patients receive the best care possible and it will avoid any negligence cases being brought against the employee and organization in the future.
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