CHCAGE002
Implement falls prevention strategies


Application

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to work in partnership with older people and their carer/s to implement strategies to minimise the risk of falls.

This unit applies to support workers in a residential or community context. Work performed requires some discretion and judgement and may be carried out under regular direct or indirect supervision.

The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian/New Zealand standards and industry codes of practice.


Elements and Performance Criteria

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

Elements define the essential outcomes

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1. Prepare to implement falls prevention strategies

1.1 Determine identified strategies which can be implemented within role and responsibilities and discuss with supervisor or relevant health professional

1.2 Interpret findings of the assessment and explain relevant information to the older person and their carer clarifying any requirements

1.3 Seek the older persons’ permission, cooperation and commitment by communicating in a supportive and encouraging manner that is respectful of the older person and their carer's level of understanding, cultural background, needs and rights

2. Identify potential risk of falls

2.1 Discuss the older person’s concerns about falling and how they have coped with previous falls in a manner respectful of their privacy, dignity, wishes and beliefs

2.2 Discuss the support of carers where appropriate

2.3 Identify and explore lifestyle, health and mobility factors with the older person, that might affect the level of risk

2.4 Determine the older person’s physical indicators of risk of falls using appropriate tools and methodologies within scope of role

2.5 Determine the older person’s risk factors based on findings in collaboration with supervisor and/or relevant health professional

2.6 Identify the older person’s needs, issues and concerns outside scope of practice and refer to appropriate supervisor, health professional or agency in line with organisation procedures

3. Implement falls prevention strategies

3.1 Identify and explain options to minimise the risk of falls and include opportunities for the older person and carer to contribute where appropriate

3.2 Work with the older person and their carers to identify and implement strategies that are consistent with their safety needs, priorities, preferences and specific requirements

3.3 Implement strategies in a safe and effective manner that minimises the older person’s discomfort

3.4 In collaboration with the older person and carers, decide how strategies can be tested and how success will be measured and communicated within the support team

4. Monitor falls prevention strategies

4.1 Work with the older person and their carers to review and measure the outcomes of falls prevention strategies

4.2 Share and celebrate positive results with the older person, carers, supervisor or health professional as appropriate

4.3 Identify when and why strategies are not having the desired result and any indicators of increased risk

4.4 Determine future strategies and actions including referral to other services in consultation with the older person, carers and health professional

4.5 Complete, maintain and store all relevant documentation and reports according to organisation policy and protocols

Foundation Skills

The Foundation Skills describe those required skills (such as language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills) that are essential to performance.

Foundation skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit of competency.