“The joy of getting a smile from the client is priceless”

Vic Murphy has recently joined Complex Case Management as a Support Team Leader, here Vic has written a blog on a typical day at work for her. 

I support an elderly client who has a diagnosis of vascular dementia.
Our shifts are structured around the client to give them the best care,
I manage and support our team of 6 to ensure that the staff are all up to date with training and following current policy and guidelines

My job as a team leader is not just that of a team leader, I support the client with all their care needs alongside my team ensuring a balanced and healthy lifestyle, a well-balanced diet, access to the community and family.  I also ensure that I keep in regular contact with the clients family to ensure that they are kept up to date with the clients health and wellbeing.

The joy of getting a smile from the client is priceless, his support team come from a varied background of care and bring a diverse mix of care and knowledge to the care of the client.

We have recently implemented a three-way sling system which is used to aid the night team primarily to give the client personal care at night to ensure that the client is as independent as possible for as long as possible.

I also ensure the team runs smoothly by using a communication book to pass on information to the team and if there is any upcoming appointments and plans. Another important part of my role is liaising with other healthcare professionals to ensure the clients needs are all met.

I complete medication audits with my manager, upload all documentation to the online records system. I ensure that the staff are supported if they have any concerns around the clients care provision.

The role of a team leader\support staff is ultimately ensuring that the health and well being of the person we support is our first priority that the client is happy, healthy and cared for in their own home and all their care needs and met.