Undertake physiological measurements

Overview

Framework:
RQF
Level:
Level 3
Unit No:
A/616/3548
Credits:
3
Guided learning hours:
23 hours

Assessment Guidance

This unit must be assessed in line with Skills for Health Assessment Principles.
Learning outcomes 3, 4 and 5 must be assessed in a real work environment.

Aim

SFH145- This unit is aimed at health and social care staff involved in the taking and recording of physiological measurements as part of the individual’s care plan.

Unit Learning Outcomes

1

Understand relevant legislation, policy and good practice for undertaking physiological measurements.

Assessment Criteria

  • 1.1

    Describe current legislation, national guidelines, organisational policies and protocols affecting work practice.

2

Understand the physiological states that can be measured.

Assessment Criteria

  • 2.1

    Explain the principles of blood pressure to include:

    • blood pressure maintenance
    • differentiation between systolic and diastolic blood pressure
    • normal limits of blood pressure
    • conditions of high or low blood pressure
  • 2.2

    Explain the principles of body temperature to include:

      • body temperature maintenance
      • normal body temperature
      • pyrexia, hyper-pyrexia and hypothermia
  • 2.3

    Explain the principles of respiratory rates to include:

      • normal respiratory rates
      • factors affecting respiratory rates in ill and well individuals
  • 2.4

    Explain the principles of pulse rates to include:

      • normal pulse rates limits
      • factors affecting pulse rates – raising or lowering
      • pulse sites on the body
      • the requirement for pulse oximetry measurements
      • analysis and implication of pulse oximetry findings
  • 2.5

    Explain the principles of Body Mass Index (BMI) in relation to weight/dietary control.

  • 2.6

    Explain the major factors that influence changes in physiological measurements.

  • 2.7

    Explain the importance of undertaking physiological measurements.

  • 2.8

    Explain how physiological measurements may need to be adapted for the individual.

    Physiological measurements may need to be adapted for the individual depending on their:

    • size
    • age
    • stage of development

3

Be able to prepare to take physiological measurements.

Assessment Criteria

  • 3.1

    Explain to the individual what measurements will be undertaken and why these are done.

    Individual refers to someone requiring care or support; it will usually mean the person or people supported by the learner.

  • 3.2

    Reassure the individual during physiological measurements process.

  • 3.3

    Answer questions and deal with concerns during physiological measurements process.

  • 3.4

    Explain the help individuals may need before taking their physiological measurements.

  • 3.5

    Explain why it may be necessary to adjust an individual’s clothing before undertaking physiological measurements.

  • 3.6

    Ensure all materials and equipment to be used are appropriately prepared.

  • 3.7

    Confirm the individual’s identity and obtain valid consent.

    Valid consent must be in line with agreed UK country definition.

4

Be able to undertake physiological measurements.

Assessment Criteria

  • 4.1

    Apply standard precautions for infection prevention and control.

  • 4.2

    Apply health and safety measures relevant to the procedure and environment.

  • 4.3

    Select and use appropriate equipment at the prescribed time and in the prescribed sequence to obtain an accurate measurement.

  • 4.4

    Monitor the condition of the individual throughout the measurement.

  • 4.5

    Respond to any significant changes in the individual’s condition.

  • 4.6

    Follow the agreed process when unable to obtain or read a physiological measurement.

  • 4.7

    Identify any issues outside own responsibility and refer these to other colleagues.

5

Be able to record and report results of physiological measurements.

Assessment Criteria

  • 5.1

    Explain the necessity for recording physiological measurements.

  • 5.2

    Explain a few common conditions which require recording of physiological measurements.

  • 5.3

    Demonstrate the correct process for reporting measurements that fall outside the normal levels.

  • 5.4

    Record physiological measurements taken accurately using the correct documentation.