H0w I undertake this

PC

1

The correct necessary documents and records for the clinical activity are ready for use.

Prior to the commencement of the procedure, I insured that the specimen is required. I do this by checking in the care plan or being instructed is required by a registered practitioner.

2

Before the activity starts, the essential resources for the clinical activity are prepared ready for use.

I collect the following pieces of

Equipment:-

· One sterile specimen

· A pair of latex gloves

3

Before any actions are taken, the client’s consent to the activity is confirmed.

I inform the client that a specimen of sputum is required. I explained this involves coughing up some phlegm into a sterile container. In that it is important not touch the inside of the container because this is sterile. I explain that no doctors want to know if there are any organisms growing in their sputum which will be sent off to the lab for testing. I ask them if they understand this. If the client does not understand, then I rephrase what is going to happen in a way that is more easy for the client to understand. Once I have ensured for understanding, I ask if the client is happy for the procedure to continue. If the client is happy, then I carry on with the procedure.

4

Where the client and advocate do not give consent to the activity, advice is sought from an appropriate member of the care team without delay.

If the client is not happy, I then reiterate the importance of the procedure. If the client is still not happy, I inform the registered practitioner requesting the sample and record the fact in the clients care plan .

5

The client is offered appropriate support and information in preparation for the activity in a manner appropriate to them.

See 1

6

Client behaviour and condition is observed and monitored throughout contact and any unexpected change or aspect which gives cause for concern is reported to an appropriate member of the care team without delay.

A client who requires the collection of the sputum specimen have the propensity to have respiratory problems. One this can shortness of breath. If a client is looking very very short of breath, I summon the assistance of a qualified nurse who can assess whether the client is well enough to produce a specimen. The collection at the specimen require some degree of effort so this could exacerbate any shortness of breath.

7

Any questions from the client and advocate are answered correctly and in a manner, and at a level and pace, appropriate to them.

8

Where the client and advocate raise questions which are beyond the worker’s responsibility, further appropriate advice or assistance is sought before undertaking the activity.

9

The reasons for any particular forms of dress and protection are explained in a manner appropriate to the client.

Hp0w I undertake this

10

Where there are contra-indications before starting the activity, the preparation is halted and advice sought from the appropriate member of the care team with minimum delay.

11

The client is offered the opportunity to use toilet facilities prior to the activity when this is appropriate.

12

The client is assisted to reach as comfortable a position as possible given the constraints of the activity.

Range

1

2

Clinical activities:

a) care of lesions and applications of dressings

b) elimination

c) extended personal care

d) tube feeding

e) obtaining specimens

f) undertaking physical measurements and monitoring

Essential resources:

a) for the activity to be undertaken

b) necessary protective clothing

Hp0w I undertake this

PC

1

Hands are cleansed effectively before and after the activity.

2

The client is informed of the activities related to obtaining specimens in a manner which is sensitive to their needs and concerns and is at an appropriate level and pace.

3

Any questions from the client are answered correctly or referred to the appropriate member of the care team.

4

The specimen is collected using the correct technique and at an appropriate time according to the plan of care.

5

The client is given appropriate support throughout.

6

Client behaviour and condition is observed and monitored throughout contact and any unexpected change or aspect which gives cause for concern is reported to an appropriate member of the care team without delay.

7

Particular observation and monitoring of the client is carried out at the time intervals specified in the plan of care.

8

Any condition or behaviour which may signify adverse reactions to the procedure is reported without delay and action appropriate to the client’s condition is taken.

9

Where the worker is unable to obtain the specimen, this is correctly recorded and the appropriate member of the care team informed without delay.

10

Specimens are labelled correctly for the individual, the relevant documentation attached and they are put in the correct place for storage, collection or transportation.

11

Specimens are tested correctly, the results accurately recorded in the required fromat and reported to the appropriate member of the care team.

12

Following the activity, the client is assisted to reach as comfortable a position as possible given their current state of health.

13

After use, equipment and materials are cleaned and returned to the correct location for storage, sterilisation and transportation, and waste is disposed of in an appropriate safe manner and place.

Range

1

2

3

Tests:

a) urinalysis

b) blood sugar analysis

Specimens:

a) urine

b) faeces

c) sputum

d) exudates

e) blood

Adverse reactions related to:

a) the client’s condition

b) the specimen being taken