Undertake Tissue Viability Risk Assessments

Learning outcomes

1 Understand the need for tissue viability riskassessment

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 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 timescale, 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 possible and appropriate

3 Be able to record and report on tissue viability riskassessment

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

4 Understand when the riskassessment 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 due to changes in the individual’s condition or environment