Remove wound closure materials from individuals
Overview
This standard covers removing wound closure materials from individuals. It is applicable in a variety of care settings including hospitals, care homes, the individuals own home or other community settings such as GP surgeries.
This standard involves removing and disposing of wound closure materials using an aseptic technique and following organisational guidelines and procedures, as and when directed by a relevant practitioner.
Users of this standard will need to communicate effectively to meet individuals' needs and wishes and work in line with health and safety legislation, policy and practices
Performance criteria
You must be able to:
P1. identify and agree the roles and responsibilities of yourself and/or others removing wound closure materials from individuals
P2. provide support to the individual, ensuring that you respect their rights and wishes relating to their privacy, beliefs and dignity
P3. check individuals’ identity, establish consent and confirm the planned activity
P4. confirm all equipment and materials are appropriate to the method of removal of wound closure material and fit for purpose
P5. confirm the absence of contra-indications to removing wound closure material
P6. carry out removal of the wound closure material:
a. ensuring minimal distress, discomfort or pain to the individual
b. at an appropriate time according to the individual's plan of care
c. following the agreed procedure
d. using the correct technique
P7. stop the activity, reassure the individual and seek advice without delay if you have any problems in removing the wound closure material
P8. ensure all wound closure material had been completely removed
P9. dispose of waste in accordance with organisational procedures
P10. complete all relevant documentation required for removing wound closure materials from individuals
Knowledge and Understanding
You need to know and understand:
K1. how to access and interpret all relevant work instructions, legislation, guidelines, policies, procedures and protocols needed to remove wound closure materials from individuals
K2. the scope and limitations of your own competence, responsibilities and accountability as it applies to your job role
K3. specific procedures for reporting issues which are beyond your competence, responsibilities and accountability
K4. the principles, practice and procedures associated with informed consent
K5. the needs of individuals including issues relating to dignity, confidentiality, and privacy
K6. the importance of applying standard infection control precautions to removing wound closure materials from individuals and the potential consequences of poor practice
K7. why individuals should be supported and informed about the nature of the of the activity
K8. the concerns and worries which individuals may have in relation to wound closures
K9. the adverse reactions which may occur following procedures and how to identify and deal with these
K10. the anatomy and physiology of the skin and underlying tissues in relation to the type of wound closure material used and the removal of wound closure material
K11. the following regarding wound healing:
a. the process of wound healing
b. factors affecting wound healing
c. potential complications of wound healing
d. cross infection
K12. the principles and working practices associated with sepsis
K13. how aseptic technique contributes to the control of infection
K14. potential sources of contamination when undertaking removal of wound closure material and appropriate measures to reduce or deal with them
K15. the potential consequences of wound contamination
K16. the equipment and materials required for removing wound closure materials
K17. why resources should be prepared before you start the activity
K18. the importance of following the procedure exactly as it is specified, and the potential effects of not doing so
K19. the importance of packing away used equipment and soiled dressings prior to leaving the immediate care area
K20. how to dispose of waste in accordance with organisational procedures
K21. how to complete and safely store all relevant documentation in accordance with organisational requirements