AN 16 Undertake tissue viability risk assessments

1. Understand the need for tissue viability risk assessment

• 1.1 Describe the anatomy and physiology of healthy skin
• 1.2 Describe the changes that occur when damage caused by pressure develops
• 1.3 Explain when an initial tissue viability risk assessment may be required
• 1.4 Describe what to look for when assessing the condition of the skin
• 1.5 Describe pre-disposing factors which may exacerbate risk of impaired tissue viability and skin breakdown
• 1.6 Describe external factors, including shearing forces, which may exacerbate risk of impaired tissue viability and skin breakdown

2. Be able to undertake tissue viability risk assessment

• 2.1 Identify individuals who may be at risk of impaired tissue viability and skin breakdown
• 2.2 Apply standard precautions for infection prevention and control
• 2.3 Inspect the general condition of an individual’s skin
• 2.4 Identify the sites where pressure damage might occur using appropriate assessment tools
• 2.5 Complete a tissue viability risk assessment within an appropriate time scale, as determined by organisational policy
• 2.6 Use safe handling techniques when assisting the individual to move during the assessment
• 2.7 Encourage the active participation of the individual and others where applicable

3. Be able to record and report on tissue viability risk assessment

• 3.1 Complete tissue viability risk assessment documentation
• 3.2 Share findings with appropriate staff and the individual
• 3.3 Notify appropriate staff of any immediate concerns in line with local policies and guidance

4. Understand when the risk assessment should be reviewed

• 4.1 Explain why the tissue viability risk assessment should be regularly reviewed and repeated
• 4.2 Explain when the tissue viability assessment tool, or the current review cycle may no longer be appropriate