Upskilling/empowering carers (submitted by CPOA Lotus River Place)

In an attempt to save on cost but still deliver a safe and high standard of care we have implemented the following:

• Carers were identified
• It boosted their self-confidence
• After Covid, we implemented the model in the rest of the care centre.
• Two of the stronger and willing cares were identified to work as Care Supervisors
• Before we appointed them, we used them as mystery carers where they had to work in all CPOA facilities on both day and night shifts to see if they can identify any shortfalls in other care centers and how they would address the challenges of working with diverse staff and diverse clientele.
• They performed well above the average to the extent where managers from these units could identify that they are not the average carer they are used too.
• They were tested to many challenges and could overcome most.
• CPOA then made the decision to trial this model and a few months later we heard about the project scaffold and realized that we are fit to partake due the fact that our model (unacceptable to DSD) could become the model of choice should project scaffold become the acceptable model in the Frailcare industry.
• Because the residents already knew these carers and most residents call all carers nurses, no one ever raised a concern that a carer is now in charge of the unit.
• We make use of Blister packs for medication administration, therefore the risk of medication errors are limited.
• CPOA also established a digital platform for capturing all data; this system can allow a manager to monitor staff and residents actions in real time. With technology, an RN could also monitor medication administration even when not on site via WhatsApp video call. (According to SANC a sub category must administer medication under the direct or indirect supervision of a RN (Although carers are not allowed to administer medication we are convinced that our model is safe)
• We do continuous in-service training to upskill the carers
• They had to write a comprehensive test to test their thinking skills and their knowledge on Clinical skills and knowledge, Environmental Health and Safety awareness, Medication management/administration and Telephone etiquette.
• They had to pass with 80 % to qualify as a Care Supervisor.
• They then had to pass an accredited 2 day First Aid Training course
• After all, above they are appointed as Care Supervisors and continuous weekly training sessions to keep them updated and enhance their clinical skills.