This guide will help you answer The RQF Level 3 Diploma in Care Unit 2.3 Adapt actions and approaches in response to an individual’s changing needs or preferences.
In thealth and social care, it’s really important to adapt our actions and approaches to meet the evolving needs and preferences of individuals. Each person is unique, and their needs can change due to various factors. This unit focuses on recognising those changes and tailoring your responses accordingly.
Recognising Changing Needs
Observation and Communication
One of the first steps in adapting to someone’s changing needs is through keen observation and effective communication. Regularly check in with the individual to notice any shifts in behaviour, mood, or physical condition. Conversations about their comfort, pain levels, and overall wellbeing are crucial. Listening to their feedback is key.
Regular Assessments
Conduct regular assessments. These can be formal, through written documentation, or informal, through daily interactions. Document any changes you observe and discuss them with your team or supervisor. This ensures that necessary adjustments can be made promptly.
Factors Affecting Needs and Preferences
Health Conditions
Chronic illnesses, acute conditions, and recovery from surgery can significantly alter someone’s needs. For instance, a person recovering from surgery may require more assistance with mobility or pain management. Adjust the care plan to accommodate these changes.
Chronic Illness: Long-term illnesses like diabetes or arthritis require ongoing adjustments in care. Regular monitoring and medication management become critical.
Acute Conditions: Sudden illnesses or injuries demand immediate and possibly temporary changes in care.
Recovery: Post-operative or post-illness recovery stages require tailored support for rehabilitation.
Emotional and Psychological States
Emotional health can greatly influence an individual’s needs. Personal loss, anxiety, or depression can alter their ability to perform daily tasks. Provide additional support, reassurance, and possibly seek advice from mental health professionals.
Anxiety and Depression: These can affect daily functioning. Introduce calming activities and ensure a supportive environment.
Personal Loss: Grief can significantly impact mental and physical health. Offer empathetic support and allow space for emotions.
Age and Developmental Changes
Ageing and developmental changes bring specific challenges. Younger individuals might need different types of stimulation and engagement, while older adults might require more assistance with mobility, memory, and daily activities.
Younger Individuals: Focus on engagement and developmental activities. Ensure they have access to educational and recreational resources.
Older Adults: Prioritise mobility aids, memory support, and safety measures in their environment.
Adapting Actions and Approaches
Person-Centred Care
Always ensure your approach remains person-centred. This means tailoring your actions according to the specific preferences and comfort levels of the individual. Reference their care plan and make adjustments as needed.
Communication Techniques
Adapt your communication style based on the person’s needs. For those with hearing impairments, speak clearly and consider using visual aids or learning basic sign language. For individuals with cognitive impairments, use simple, clear language and be prepared to repeat information if necessary.
Hearing Impairments: Face the person when speaking, use gestures or written communication if needed.
Cognitive Impairments: Break information into small, simple steps. Check for understanding frequently.
Use of Equipment and Technology
Utilise appropriate equipment and technology to assist with changing needs. This could include mobility aids, hearing devices, or computer software designed for specific impairments.
Mobility Aids: Wheelchairs, walkers, and stair lifts help maintain independence.
Hearing Devices: Hearing aids or amplifiers enhance communication.
Computer Software: Tools like speech-to-text software support communication for those with speech or motor impairments.
Flexibility in Care Plans
Individualised Care Plans
Ensure care plans are flexible and can be easily updated. A rigid care plan may fail to meet changing needs. Regularly review and revise the care plan in collaboration with the individual and relevant professionals.
Team Communication
Keep all members of the care team informed about any changes. This ensures a consistent approach and that everyone understands the updated needs and preferences of the individual.
Regular Meetings: Schedule regular team meetings to discuss any changes and updates.
Documentation: Maintain accurate and up-to-date records that everyone can access.
Developing Skills and Knowledge
Continuous Learning
Stay informed about best practices and developments in care techniques. Attend training sessions and workshops to enhance your skills and knowledge.
Seeking Feedback
Seek feedback from the individuals you care for and your colleagues. This can provide valuable insights into areas for improvement and how well you are adapting to changing needs.
Conclusion
Adapting actions and approaches in response to an individual’s changing needs or preferences is fundamental in health and social care. Stay observant, communicate effectively, and be flexible in your approach. Regularly review and update care plans in collaboration with the individual and your team. By doing so, you ensure that the care provided is person-centred and responsive to evolving needs.
Example answers for unit 2.3 Adapt actions and approaches in response to an individual’s changing needs or preferences
Example Answer 1
In my role as a care worker, I recently supported a resident named Mrs. Taylor, who has dementia. We noticed that her cognitive abilities were declining, and she started to struggle with daily tasks she used to manage well. To adapt to her changing needs, I adjusted my communication approach. I began using simpler language and repeated instructions more often to ensure she understood. I also incorporated visual aids, like pictorial cards, to assist her in recognising objects and tasks. Regularly discussing her condition with my team, we updated her care plan to include more structured routines, which seemed to provide her with a sense of stability and security.
Example Answer 2
I’ve been caring for Mr. Johnson, who recently underwent hip surgery. His mobility needs changed significantly post-surgery. Initially, he was quite independent, but post-op, he required more assistance with daily activities. I adapted my approach by helping him with tasks like bathing and dressing, ensuring I used proper lifting techniques and mobility aids like a walker. We also adjusted his pain management schedule, coordinating with the medical team to keep him comfortable. By regularly assessing his progress, we slowly reintroduced more independence into his routine as he regained strength and mobility.
Example Answer 3
Caring for young Emily, who is on the autism spectrum, required me to be highly adaptable. Emily’s preferences for sensory input changed frequently. At times, she struggled with noise and would cover her ears, indicating she needed a quieter environment. I adapted by creating a calm space with minimal noise where she could retreat. Additionally, during periods when she sought more sensory stimulation, I provided tactile activities like playing with clay or sand. We communicated via visual schedules, which helped her understand daily activities better and reduced her anxiety.
Example Answer 4
I looked after Ms. Patel, who has been recently diagnosed with diabetes. Her dietary needs changed, requiring careful monitoring of her blood sugar levels and a strict meal plan. I adapted my actions by learning more about diabetic care, including blood sugar monitoring and preparing meals that align with her dietary requirements. I ensured that snacks and meals were given at consistent times and helped her understand how to manage her condition better. By working closely with a dietitian and keeping Ms. Patel informed and involved, we managed to keep her diabetes under control effectively.
Example Answer 5
Mr. Reed, an elderly gentleman in our care, started experiencing hearing loss. This change required adjustments in how we communicated with him. I adapted by ensuring I faced him directly when speaking, speaking slowly and clearly, and using notes or written communication for important information. We discussed his needs and he agreed to use a hearing aid. I assisted him in understanding how to use and maintain the device. Updating his care plan to include these communication strategies ensured he continued to participate actively in daily activities and social interactions.
Example Answer 6
Recently, I supported Maria, who has both physical and intellectual disabilities. During one of my shifts, I noticed she was becoming increasingly frustrated during physical therapy sessions. I adapted my approach by first discussing with Maria and her therapist what aspects of the sessions were causing discomfort. We discovered she preferred shorter, more frequent sessions rather than long durations. I then scheduled her therapy to reflect this preference. Additionally, I incorporated more engaging activities that she enjoyed, like music therapy, which kept her motivated and made her physical exercises feel less burdensome. This change significantly improved her mood and participation in therapy.
