1.5 State protection/ precautionary measures: • for the procedure being carried out • how they should be applied • the implications and consequences of not applying these measures

This guide will help you answer 1.5 State protection/ precautionary measures: • for the procedure being carried out • how they should be applied • the implications and consequences of not applying these measures.

Protection and precautionary measures help keep everyone safe during healthcare activities. These measures protect the individual receiving care, the worker, and others in the environment.

Let’s take a look at what these measures are, how to apply them, and what can happen if they are ignored.

What Are Protection and Precautionary Measures?

Protection and precautionary measures are actions or equipment used to prevent harm or reduce risks. In a healthcare setting, common measures include:

• Hand hygiene (washing hands or using hand gel)
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, aprons, or masks
• Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and equipment
• Maintaining safe distances to reduce infection risks
• Sharps safety (safe handling and disposal of needles or blades)
• Safe moving and handling techniques
• Risk assessments before carrying out procedures
• Correct disposal of waste

Each measure helps to prevent infection, injury, or other problems.

Measures for Different Procedures

Every healthcare procedure has its own risks. The protection needed depends on the activity.

Example 1: Taking Blood

Protection measures:

• Wear disposable gloves and apron
• Use a sterile needle
• Clean skin with an alcohol wipe
• Dispose of needle in a sharps bin

Example 2: Helping with Personal Care

Protection measures:

• Wash hands before and after care
• Wear gloves and apron
• Use clean towels and wash equipment with disinfectant
• Separate clean and dirty linen

Example 3: Giving Medication

Protection measures:

• Wash hands before handling medication
• Check the medication label twice
• Wear gloves if handling creams or patches
• Dispose of packaging safely
• Record all actions in the medication chart

Example 4: Supporting Mobility

Protection measures:

• Check the care plan for any mobility risks
• Use correct moving and handling technique
• Use equipment such as a hoist, if needed, and check it is safe
• Communicate clearly with the individual and colleagues
• Make sure the area is clear of hazards

How to Apply Protection and Precautionary Measures

Protection measures must be used in the right way for them to work. Here’s how to apply the main types.

Hand Hygiene

• Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• Dry hands fully
• Or, use alcohol-based hand gel
• Clean your hands before and after each procedure, after touching any body fluids or contaminated items, and before touching clean equipment

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Choose the correct PPE for the procedure (gloves, mask, apron, etc.)
• Put PPE on before starting the procedure
• Remove PPE in the correct order to avoid contamination (usually gloves first, then apron, then mask)
• Dispose of single-use PPE after use
• Do not reuse disposable PPE

Cleaning and Disinfection

• Clean all reusable equipment after each use with disinfectant wipes or cleaning solution
• Wipe down surfaces before and after care activities
• Dispose of waste in the correct bins

Sharps and Hazardous Waste

• Dispose of sharp items (needles, scalpels) straight away in an approved sharps container
• Do not overfill the sharps bin
• Wear gloves when handling waste
• Use separate waste bags for clinical and general waste

Safe Moving and Handling

• Assess the individual’s needs and use agreed technique or equipment
• Check equipment is not damaged and is working properly
• Make sure two people work together if the procedure requires it
• Use smooth, even movements, and communicate throughout

Risk Assessment

• Check the care plan and risk assessment before any activity
• Consider the environment and remove hazards
• Adapt your approach if risks or needs have changed

Implications and Consequences of Not Applying These Measures

Failing to use protection and precautionary measures can have serious results. Below are some of the implications and consequences.

For Individuals Receiving Care

• Higher risk of infection (e.g., MRSA, COVID-19)
• Greater chance of injury (e.g., falls, skin damage)
• Delayed recovery or worsening health
• Loss of trust in the care team
• Possible long-term health complications

For Workers

• Increased risk of catching an infection or becoming ill
• Higher chance of injury (e.g., needlestick injury, back injury)
• Legal or disciplinary action (for not following procedures)
• Emotional distress if harm comes to the individual in their care
• Damage to professional reputation

For the Organisation

• Outbreaks of infection can spread quickly and affect others
• Investigations by inspectors or regulators
• Legal claims from individuals or families
• Fines or loss of business
• Poor reputation in the community

Legal and Regulatory Consequences

Not following protection measures is often a breach of the law or professional standards. For example, the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations require risk reduction.

Staff may face:

• Formal warnings or sanctions
• Suspension or dismissal
• Removal from professional registers
• Criminal charges if gross negligence leads to harm or death

Why Protection and Precautionary Measures Must Be Consistent

Consistency is key. One careless moment can lead to infection or injury. Even experienced staff must not ignore basic steps, such as hand washing or wearing gloves.

By making these measures part of your routine, you protect yourself, colleagues, and individuals in your care.

Supporting Others to Follow Protection Measures

It is everyone’s responsibility to speak up if they notice poor practice. Encourage others to:

• Wash hands and use PPE correctly
• Keep the care environment clean
• Report damaged equipment or hazards straight away

If unsure, ask for support or more training. Your organisation should provide regular updates and opportunities to refresh your knowledge.

Training and Updates

Protection and precautionary measures change over time, especially with new research or during outbreaks like COVID-19. Regular training keeps you up to date with best practice, correct use of PPE, and new equipment.

Always attend mandatory training and read updates from your manager.

Final Thoughts

Protection and precautionary measures save lives. Use them every time you carry out a healthcare activity.

By being consistent and following agreed steps, you show respect for people’s safety, your own wellbeing, and the standards expected in health and social care.