{{org_field_logo}}

{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

---

CH88-First Aid at Work Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that {{org_field_name}} provides effective first aid arrangements to protect the health and safety of staff, the people we support, visitors, and contractors. This policy complies with the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981, the Care Quality Commission (CQC) fundamental standards, and all applicable health and safety legislation.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all employees, agency staff, volunteers, and contractors working within the care home premises or on external visits. It also ensures appropriate first aid arrangements are in place for the people we support in accordance with their individual risk assessments and care plans.

3. Related Policies

• CH16 – Health and Safety at Work Policy
• CH18 – Risk Management and Assessment Policy
• CH24 – Management of Accidents, Incidents, and Near Misses Policy
• CH11 – Safe Care and Treatment Policy
• CH17 – Infection Prevention and Control Policy

4. First Aid Provision

4.1 First Aid Personnel

• First Aiders:
  • A sufficient number of designated first aiders will be trained and available at all times to provide immediate assistance in case of injury or illness.
  • All first aiders will hold a current First Aid at Work (FAW) certificate or an Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) certificate, refreshed every three years.
  • Contact details for first aiders:
    • Name: {{org_field_first_aider_name}}
    • Phone: {{org_field_first_aider_phone}}
    • Email: {{org_field_first_aider_email}}
• Appointed Persons:
  • In instances where first aiders are not required, an appointed person will be designated to oversee first aid arrangements and replenish first aid supplies.

4.2 First Aid Equipment

• Fully stocked first aid kits are available at strategic locations, including:
  • Reception
  • Medication rooms
  • Kitchen areas
  • Care staff offices
  • Activity rooms
• All first aid kits comply with British Standard BS 8599-1:2019.
• First aiders must inspect and replenish kits monthly, with records maintained for CQC compliance.

4.3 First Aid Facilities

• A dedicated first aid room is provided where feasible, equipped with hygienic handwashing facilities, a couch, and necessary first aid equipment.
• Any additional specialist first aid equipment, such as an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), is maintained and checked regularly.

4.4 Scenarios Where First Aid Can Be Provided On-Site

First aid will be provided for, but is not limited to, the following scenarios:

• Minor Injuries: Cuts, grazes, burns, bruises, sprains, and minor fractures.
• Medical Emergencies: Seizures, diabetic episodes, anaphylactic shock, asthma attacks, and choking.
• Cardiac Events: Heart attacks, strokes, or situations requiring CPR or AED use.
• Falls: Immediate response to falls, assessing injury severity, and arranging medical support if necessary.
• Shock and Unconsciousness: Managing individuals in shock, loss of consciousness, or fainting.
• Allergic Reactions: Administering emergency care, including EpiPen use if prescribed.
• Head Injuries: Initial assessment, monitoring symptoms, and arranging medical intervention if needed.
• Poisoning or Overdose: Providing immediate care and contacting emergency services as required.
• Breathing Difficulties: Assisting with asthma, choking, or other respiratory distress situations.

4.5 First Aid Procedures

In the Event of an Accident or Illness

1. Assess the situation to identify risks before intervening.
2. Provide appropriate first aid care.
3. If emergency services are required, dial 999 or 112 and inform the Registered Manager or senior staff.
4. Record all incidents in the accident book, noting the treatment given and any further actions required.
5. Report incidents in line with CQC notification requirements if applicable.

First Aid for the People We Support

• Care plans must detail specific medical needs, allergies, and required first aid interventions.
• Staff must receive training on managing medical emergencies such as choking, seizures, or anaphylaxis.
• Family members or representatives will be informed of any significant medical event, in line with the Duty of Candour policy.

4.6 Infection Control in First Aid

• Staff must wear disposable gloves and aprons when treating injuries.
• All used dressings and contaminated materials must be disposed of safely, following infection prevention protocols.
• Handwashing and disinfection procedures must be followed after administering first aid.

4.7 Training and Awareness

• All new staff must receive basic first aid awareness training during induction.
• Regular refresher training is provided to first aiders to ensure continued competency.
• Annual first aid drills are conducted to ensure staff readiness.

4.8 Monitoring and Compliance

• The Registered Manager is responsible for ensuring compliance with first aid requirements.
• Regular audits and risk assessments are conducted to assess the adequacy of first aid arrangements.
• First aid records are reviewed as part of governance and quality assurance processes.

5. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if changes in legislation, CQC guidance, or operational needs occur. Updates will be communicated to all staff to ensure continued compliance.

---

Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.