7.3d Describe why there may be times when they need to support an individual to question or challenge decisions made about them by others

This guide will you answer The Care Certificate Standard 7.3d Describe why there may be times when they need to support an individual to question or challenge decisions made about them by others.

Standard 7.3d focuses on why there might be times when you need to support an individual to question or challenge decisions made about them. This is important for their autonomy and well-being.

Empowering the Individual

Promoting Autonomy and Independence

People have the right to make their own decisions. Often, individuals in care settings may feel powerless. They might think their opinions don’t matter. By supporting them to question or challenge decisions made by others, you can empower them.

Autonomy means having control over one’s life. It’s important for mental well-being. It boosts self-esteem and gives a sense of purpose. When individuals feel they have lost control, it can lead to withdrawal and depression.

Maintaining Dignity and Respect

Dignity and respect are foundational principles in care. Sometimes, decisions made about an individual might not consider their personal preferences or cultural background. Supporting them to challenge such decisions ensures their needs and values are respected.

For example, a diet plan might not align with someone’s cultural dietary restrictions. By questioning this, you uphold their dignity and respect for their cultural practices.

Legal and Ethical Responsibilities

Rights Under the Law

Everyone has legal rights. Sometimes, decisions made might not uphold these rights. It’s your duty to ensure that individuals are aware of their legal rights and to help them advocate for themselves.

The Mental Capacity Act 2005, for instance, is an important piece of legislation. It protects individuals who may lack the capacity to make certain decisions. It also allows others to challenge any wrongful decisions made on their behalf.

Ethical Considerations

Supporting someone to challenge a decision often involves ethical considerations. Health and social care work is governed by ethical principles like beneficence and non-maleficence. These principles mean you should act in the best interest of the individual and avoid harm.

If a decision is potentially harmful or not in the best interest of the individual, it is your ethical responsibility to support them in questioning it.

Situations Where Challenging is Necessary

Healthcare Decisions

Often, healthcare decisions might not fully consider the patient’s wishes. A doctor might propose a treatment plan without thoroughly discussing options. The treatment might be beneficial medically but could impact the individual’s quality of life.

Supporting the individual to ask questions like, “Are there alternatives?” can lead to decisions that align better with their wishes and overall well-being.

Care Plans

Care plans should be personalised. They must reflect the individual’s needs and preferences. Sometimes, this doesn’t happen. The plan might not align with their daily routine or personal likes and dislikes.

For instance, a care plan might dictate early morning exercises, but the individual prefers to exercise in the evening. Supporting them to challenge this can help create a plan that suits them better.

Financial Decisions

Financial decisions can actually impact an individual’s quality of life. This includes decisions about how their money is spent or managed. Sometimes, these decisions may be made without consulting the individual.

It’s important to ensure they understand their financial situation and have a say in decisions. If they feel a decision isn’t right, supporting them to challenge it protects their financial independence and well-being.

Communicating Effectively

Active Listening

Effective communication is key when supporting someone to challenge a decision. Active listening is essential. This means fully focusing on the individual, understanding their concerns, and showing empathy.

It makes them feel heard and understood, which boosts their confidence to speak up.

Clear and Simple Language

Use clear and simple language when discussing complex decisions. Avoid jargon. This ensures that the individual fully understands the situation and can make informed decisions.

For example, rather than saying “intravenous therapy,” say “a type of treatment that involves giving medicine through a vein.”

Providing the Necessary Support

Information and Education

People need to be well-informed to make decisions or challenge them. Provide all the necessary information in a way they can understand. This might include leaflets, easy-read documents, or videos.

Education empowers them. It makes them feel more confident to question or challenge decisions they don’t agree with.

Advocacy Services

Sometimes, individuals might need additional support from advocacy services. Advocates are trained professionals who help people express their views and wishes. They can be particularly helpful in ensuring that the individual’s voice is heard.

Explain the availability of these services and support them in accessing them if needed.

Overcoming Barriers

Fear and Anxiety

People might feel afraid or anxious about challenging a decision. They might worry about repercussions or think their concerns won’t be taken seriously.

Reassure them. Let them know that it’s their right to question decisions and that they won’t face negative consequences for doing so.

Lack of Confidence

Low self-esteem or confidence can be a barrier. Help them build confidence by gradually involving them in more decision-making processes. Celebrate their successes to boost their self-esteem.

Example answers for activity 7.3d Describe why there may be times when they need to support an individual to question or challenge decisions made about them by others

Here are example answers that a care worker might write when completing this unit on supporting individuals to question or challenge decisions made about them:

Example Answer 1: Empowering the Individual

“As a care worker, I need to support individuals in questioning or challenging decisions made about them to empower them. People often feel powerless in care settings. By encouraging them to speak up, I help them regain control over their lives. For example, I once worked with a resident who was unhappy with the scheduled mealtimes. By helping him voice his concerns, we were able to adjust the schedule to better fit his routine, making him feel more valued and respected.”

Example Answer 2: Legal and Ethical Responsibilities

“It is my legal and ethical responsibility to support individuals in questioning decisions made about them. Everyone has the right to be involved in decisions affecting their lives. I have to ensure that their rights are upheld, especially under laws like the Mental Capacity Act 2005. For instance, if a care plan includes a medication that the individual is uncomfortable with, I must help them discuss this with their healthcare provider to explore other options.”

Example Answer 3: Situations Where Challenging is Necessary

“There are many situations where challenging decisions is necessary. For example, a care plan might not consider an individual’s preferences. I once had a client who preferred evening showers, but his care plan scheduled them in the morning. By helping him voice his preference, we were able to update the care plan. This small change made a big difference in his well-being and comfort.”

Example Answer 4: Communicating Effectively

“Effective communication is important when supporting individuals to challenge decisions. I make an effort to use clear, simple language and actively listen to the individual’s concerns. For example, one client was confused about her medication changes. I took the time to explain each medication in simple terms and encouraged her to ask questions. This made her feel more confident and involved in her care.”

Example Answer 5: Providing the Necessary Support

“Providing the necessary support is key to helping individuals question decisions. This includes giving them all the information they need in an understandable format. I once had a client who was worried about her new diet plan. I provided her with easy-read materials and explained the benefits and alternatives. This made her feel more at ease and confident in voicing her concerns.”

Example Answer 6: Overcoming Barriers

“Overcoming barriers like fear and anxiety is essential when supporting individuals to question decisions. Many people worry about repercussions. I reassure them that it’s their right to challenge decisions and that they won’t face negative consequences. For example, a resident was afraid to speak up about his dislike for a specific activity. By reassuring him and gradually involving him in decision-making, we were able to find activities he enjoyed, making him more comfortable and engaged.”

These example answers illustrate how a care worker might apply the knowledge gained from Standard 7.3d in real-world scenarios, enabling individuals to have a say in decisions that affect their lives.

Final Thoughts

Supporting individuals to question or challenge decisions is a fundamental aspect of health and social care. It promotes autonomy, preserves dignity, and ensures legal and ethical standards are met. Effective communication, adequate support, and overcoming barriers are essential in this process.

Always remember, it’s about ensuring that the individual’s voice is heard and respected. This leads to better care outcomes and enhances their quality of life.