Investing into the wellbeing and health of the Support Workforce.

“Be brave, be courageous, be humble and ask for help.” Anthony Inu – Head of Practice Excellence

Our Head of Practice Excellence, Anthony Inu, leads the development of peak performance by our Support Workforce.

We are shining the light on the fabulous work Anthony and his team undertake at Support Worker Co and offering tips to Support Workers.

Here are some recent insights gained from Anthony in communications to our Support Workforce for your benefit:

1. Help and support is available to you almost immediately at Support Worker Co.

2. The FIRST STEP- is asking for help, and know that there is no judgement, but love and support when you do reach out!

3. In the face of adversity, take the courage and ask for help, I believe whole heartedly it will place you in a better position in your lives.

Importance of Report Writing

Writing accurate and well-written incident reports is essential for Support Workers to document incidents effectively and ensure appropriate follow-up actions.

Here are five key points to consider:

1. Objective Description: Provide a detailed and objective description of the incident, including who was involved, what happened, where and when it occurred, and any relevant environmental factors. Stick to the facts and avoid making assumptions or judgments. Use clear and concise language to convey the sequence of events.

2. Include Relevant Details: Ensure that all relevant details are included in the report, such as the nature and extent of any injuries or property damage, any witnesses present, and any actions taken immediately following the incident. Include information on the individuals involved, including their names, roles, and any relevant medical conditions or support needs.

3. Use Clear and Professional Language: Write the report using clear, professional language that is easily understandable to others. Avoid using jargon or technical terms that may be unclear to readers. Use correct grammar, punctuation, and spelling to maintain professionalism and clarity.

4. Be Timely: Submit the incident report in a timely manner following the incident, adhering to any organisational policies or procedures regarding reporting timelines. Document the details while they are still fresh in your memory to ensure accuracy and completeness.

5. Focus on Impact and Resolution: In addition to describing the incident itself, focus on the impact it had on the individuals involved and any steps taken to address the situation or prevent similar incidents in the future. Include recommendations for follow-up actions, such as additional support or training, and any changes to policies or procedures that may be necessary to prevent recurrence.

Are you finding it hard to pay attention at work?

Here are some reflective questions to ask yourself and strategies to help:

Researchers have identified that over the past 10 years everyone's attention span appears to be getting shorter. It is natural for our attention to wax and wane, especially if we get a bad sleep, however the demands of modern life and constant bombardment of phones, social media, emails and the internet are having a big impact on our ability to stay focussed and present.
One of the reasons this is happening is because our brains want novelty, excitement and social connection, and devices often accommodate those desires. Checking a notification flashing across your screen can provide a small hit of dopamine, creating a sense of reward that keeps you coming back for more. Your brain gets used to constant diversions and it becomes a bit of a nasty habit.

The average human attention span is now down to 8.25 seconds; the average office worker checks their email box 11 times an hour and the phone takes up on average 3 hours and 16 minutes a day.

So, what can you do about it:

1. Get Active. If you cannot concentrate, try some exercise before you get to work, like jogging in place, or doing jumping jacks. Doing 15 minutes of activity before a challenging task can help you stay more focused.

2. Take Breaks. Practice attentive behaviour at non-crucial times, then take attention breaks. Using a timer or a phone app, have an alarm go off during the work period. Write down whether you were paying attention. This can help train your brain to understand what attention looks like, and how often you are tempted to let your attention wander.

3. Adjust Time Frames. If you find that, no matter what you do, you cannot stay on task, you might need to break content into smaller time intervals. Break up tasks so you work without becoming overwhelmed.

4. Remove Distractions. When you are having a hard time paying attention, clutter on your desk or workspace can make it impossible to focus. Remove unnecessary clutter from your space. Put your phone in another room and turn off the notifications on your laptop so you don't get distracted.

5. Rate and Change Tasks. If you tend to avoid things or become very distracted, rate the level of challenge found in the activity on a scale of 1 (easiest) to 10 (hardest). If the activity is an 8 or higher, think about what you can do to make the task a 2 or 3.
   Anthony Inu – Head of Practice Excellence

Medication administration

Even with the above processes in place, we are human, and mistakes happen, however, mistakes/incidents relating to medication for a client, have significant consequences to their overall health.

Here are 7 tips relating to medication administration:

1. Training and Education: Ensure that you have received proper training and education on medication administration. This includes understanding different types of medications, their dosage forms, proper administration techniques, and potential side effects or adverse reactions.

2. Double-Check: Always double-check the medication order against the individual's medical records, care plan, and any instructions provided by healthcare professionals. Verify the medication name, dosage, route of administration, and frequency before administering it. If there are any discrepancies or uncertainties, consult with a supervisor or pharmacist immediately.

3. Follow Protocols: Adhere strictly to established protocols and procedures for medication administration. This includes maintaining proper hygiene, such as washing hands before and after handling medications, using gloves when necessary, and following aseptic techniques for sterile medications or injections. Use the appropriate equipment and measuring devices to ensure accurate dosage.

4. Create a Calm Environment: Ensure the environment is calm and conducive to medication administration. Minimise distractions and noise that could interfere with your concentration. Creating a tranquil atmosphere can help both you and the client feel more at ease during the process.

5. Stay Empathetic: Remember to approach medication administration with empathy and compassion. Acknowledge any concerns or fears the client may have and reassure them that you're there to support them. Your empathy can help alleviate any apprehension the client may feel about taking medication.

6. Documentation: Maintain thorough and accurate documentation of medication administration. Record the date, time, dosage administered, route of administration, and any relevant observations or reactions. Document any missed doses or deviations from the prescribed regimen and follow the incident reporting system in place. Good documentation not only ensures continuity of care but also serves as legal protection and facilitates communication among healthcare providers.

7. Communication: Maintain open and clear communication with the individual receiving the medication, their caregivers, and other members of the healthcare team. Explain the purpose and potential effects of the medication to the individual (if applicable) and address any questions or concerns they may have. Report any unusual symptoms or adverse reactions promptly to the appropriate healthcare professionals.

Improving your performance as a Support Worker- first, let’s discuss- ATTITUDE!!

Embarking on my journey in the Disability/Youth Work field, I began as a support worker, spending many years assisting clients with various abilities. Throughout this time, I've gathered a treasure trove of unforgettable and often amusing memories. Yet, as many of you can relate, the role of a support worker also presents its fair share of challenges.

Initially, I harbored a fixed mindset, believing I had a grasp on everything even after a considerable time in my role. However, a pivotal shift occurred when I recognised the importance of continuous learning and seeking deeper understanding. I actively pursued opportunities to engage with stakeholders, attending meetings to forge connections with clients and their families. This shift propelled both my personal and professional growth at an accelerated pace, a mindset I've steadfastly maintained to this day.
While numerous factors influence our attitudes, one truth remains: we hold the power to shape the attitude we carry with us each day, especially when stepping into a client's home.

As a support worker, having the right attitude is crucial for providing exceptional care to clients. Going above and beyond means more than just completing tasks--it involves a commitment to understanding the unique needs of each individual you support.
Take the time to read relevant documents and ask discovery questions to familiarise yourself with their preferences, routines, and any specific requirements they may have. Collaborating with fellow support workers and managers can provide valuable insights and ensure consistency in care. Regularly checking communication channels like communication books, emails, and phones is essential to staying updated on any changes or revisions, such as modifications to medication procedures. By approaching your role with diligence, empathy, and a proactive mindset, you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those you support.

Remembering that each task you perform is an opportunity to positively impact someone's life can help you maintain the right attitude as a support worker. Strive to go above and beyond by not only completing assigned duties but also by actively seeking ways to improve the quality of care provided. Taking the initiative to thoroughly understand clients' needs through thorough documentation review

Documentation and Record Keeping.

Here is a checklist regarding progress/shift reports, documentation/record keeping.

1. Client Information:
• Confirm client's name, ID number, and other identifying details are accurate.
• Ensure the date of the progress report is clearly stated.

2. Objective Review:
• Assess progress towards client's goals and objectives.
• Note any significant milestones or achievements since the last report.

3. Activities and Interventions:
• Document activities conducted during the reporting period.
• Describe any interventions implemented to support the client's needs or address challenges.

4. Observations and Changes:
• Record any changes in the client's behavior, health status, or circumstances.
• Include observations related to mood, engagement, and interactions.

5. Communication and Collaboration:
• Document any communication with the client, family members, or other stakeholders.
• Highlight collaboration with other team members or professionals involved in the client's care.

6. Challenges and Solutions:
• Identify any obstacles or challenges encountered during the reporting period.
• Describe strategies or solutions implemented to overcome these challenges.

7. Future Plans:
• Outline upcoming goals or objectives for the client's care plan.
• Specify any changes or adjustments planned based on the client's progress and needs.

8. Accuracy and Completeness:
• Review the progress report for accuracy, ensuring all information is up-to-date and relevant.
• Double-check spelling, grammar, and clarity of language.

9. Confidentiality and Compliance:
• Ensure compliance with privacy regulations and organisational policies regarding client confidentiality.
• Avoid including sensitive or identifying information unless necessary for documentation purposes.

10. Supervisor Review and Sign-off:
• Submit the progress report for review by a supervisor or designated authority.

Thank you to Anthony Inu – Head of Practice Excellence