Duty of Care in Health and Social Care

Overview

Framework:
RQF
Level:
Level 2
Unit No:
F/615/9162
Credits:
2
Guided learning hours:
16 hours

Assessment Guidance

Portfolio of Evidence

Aim

In this unit, learners will understand the meaning of the term 'duty of care'. They will learn how it affects the individual and practitioner and the potential dilemmas the practitioner may encounter.

Unit Learning Outcomes

1

Understand the concept of duty of care in health and social care.

Learners need to show an understanding of the term 'duty of care' and how it affects them as a worker. They should know that it is a legal obligation for all personnel working within the health and social care sector to provide a safe and effective service that meets individual needs and protects them from harm. Employers also have a similar duty of care to their employees.

Assessment Criteria

  • 1.1
    Explain what is meant by ‘duty of care’ in a health and social care context.
  • 1.2
    Outline the groups for whom health and social care professionals have a duty of care.
  • 1.3
    Outline the key obligations of health and social workers to those for whom they have a duty of care.
2

Know the role of legislation and workplace policies in helping health and social care organisations and staff to fulfil their duty of care.

Learners should give examples of how legislation and work place policies help them fulfil their duty of care. Examples may include:

  • giving them boundaries to work within
  • knowing their own roles and responsibilities and the responsibilities of others 
  • helps to provide protection if malpractice or complaints occur
  • meeting organisational requirements.

Assessment Criteria

  • 2.1
    Outline how legislation and workplace policies, protocols and guidelines help ensure that health and social care organisations and practitioners fulfil their duty of care.
3

Know about dilemmas relating to duty of care.

Practitioners may encounter conflict when adhering to organisational policies, codes of practice whilst ensuring the individual wishes of the client are met. Examples of possible conflict may include:

  • the client refusing medication or treatment
  • the client smoking on the premises or against advice.

Learners will be able to provide their own examples of similar, relevant potential conflicts.Sources of help in resolving conflicts will include the client, person's family, medical staff, care professionals, line manager.

Assessment Criteria

  • 3.1
    Describe possible conflicts for a health and social care practitioner between duty of care to a client and the demands of an employer.
  • 3.2
    Identify sources of help in resolving dilemmas relating to duty of care.