Promoting Dignity in Care: Everything You Need to Know

Fundamentally, we all want to be treated with respect and dignity. It is essential that people being looked after feel understood and supported, and have an active role in their own care.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) define dignity and respect as “making sure that people have privacy when they need and want it, treating them as equals and providing any support they might need to be autonomous, independent and involved in their local community.”

Dignity can be sustained within care by recognising a person’s strengths, ambitions and abilities, whilst working with them as an equal to ensure they are living a fulfilled life.

What Does Dignity in Care Involve?

Communication is crucial in creating an equal and respectful relationship. It is important to talk to patients in plain English, do not overcomplicate or patronise; some people may need more time to understand what you’re saying.

Try to consider ways of effectively communicating with people who have learning disabilities, sensory impairments or neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia or Alzheimer’s. Ensuring that the patient feels informed and confident in their care plan can help make them feel more comfortable and in control of their life.

Choice is another major factor in ensuring that patients have autonomy over their own life. Patients should feel empowered and ready to make an informed choice based on the information and advice that you provide. Information should not be manipulated or moulded, but instead portrayed in a way that is easy to understand and digest.

What Are the FREDA principles?

The FREDA principles were created to help care professionals understand and use the core values of dignity in care. The acronym stands for:

•          Fairness
•          Respect
•          Equality
•          Dignity
•          Autonomy

It is vital to remember these 5 human rights when treating an individual to ensure they remain happy and comfortable in care.

Ways to Promote Dignity in Care

Dignity in Care can be enacted through very basic acts that mean a lot. Below are some simple way to ensure your patients feel they are treated fairly.

Privacy

If your patient is asking for more privacy, it is important to listen and make that change. Be sure to always respect their personal space and possessions too.

Choice

Always involve the patient in any decisions that are to be made. This does not always relate to important healthcare issues. Many of us create our identity through how we dress, so allowing the patient to choose their clothing is one way to promote dignity.

Hygiene

Older people may need more support to maintain standards of hygiene that they are used to. This includes showering, oral hygiene, haircare and continence needs. Be sure to listen and respect the patients’ requests. For example, a female may not want to be washed by a male carer.

How Can Andway Help?

At Andway, we provide a range of products and services to help with your healthcare needs. Our service can assist you in creating personalised treatment plans, facilitating independence and supporting each patients’ needs.

For more advice, contact us now.