SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED UNIT STANDARD THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

Provide care to a frail person 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
117029  Provide care to a frail person 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Ancillary Health Care 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY
-  
FIELD SUBFIELD
Field 09 - Health Sciences and Social Services Curative Health 
ABET BAND UNIT STANDARD TYPE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
Undefined  Regular  Level 1  NQF Level 01  12 
REGISTRATION STATUS REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE SAQA DECISION NUMBER
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 2018-07-01  2023-06-30  SAQA 06120/18 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2026-06-30   2029-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This unit standard does not replace any other unit standard and is not replaced by any other unit standard. 

PURPOSE OF THE UNIT STANDARD 
This unit standard is for caregivers who are required to provide fundamental nursing care for a frail person on a continuous basis and under the direct or indirect supervision of a qualified health worker. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
The following competencies:
  • Assess the client's situation and assist and support the client and family to manage home based health care (9825)
  • Assist the community to access services in accordance with their health related human rights (9827)
  • Demonstrate skills that relate to a safe and secure environment (7504)

    The learner who requests Recognition of Prior Learning will be required to meet all the criteria set out in the assessment criteria and assessment notes of this standard as well as that of the learning assumed to be in place. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
    A frail client means a person of any age who is in need of twenty-four hour care either on a temporary or a permanent basis. Frail care is fundamental nursing care 

    Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Demonstrate a fundamental understanding of the normal function of the body systems. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The basic structure of each body system is described in terms of how it fits in with the entire body. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The normal function of each body system is described in terms of normal functioning. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The requirements for each of the body systems are explained in terms of the optimal functioning of the body. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Identify the common degenerative, disease and trauma processes and their effect on the body systems of the frail person. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The common degenerative, disease and trauma process that may affect a frail person are described in terms of the effect on the body. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Processes include head injuries, stroke, dementias, common degenerative disorders.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The main causes of the common degenerative, disease and trauma processes on the body systems of the frail person are described in terms of external factors and lifestyle. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Prevention of common degenerative, disease and trauma processes is explained in terms of actions that may be taken. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Assess the condition and environment with reference to the specific needs of the frail person. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The client's condition is assessed in terms of current health status and specific care needs. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    A care plan is drawn up in terms of the identified needs. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    With assistance of a qualified health worker.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The environment is assessed in terms of factors that may contribute to risk of the frail person. Any changes required are identified and communicated to the family in a clear and concise manner. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Provide for the needs of the frail person. 
    OUTCOME RANGE 
    Under the supervision of a qualified health worker. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The activities of daily living routine are demonstrated to the client in accordance with his/her specific needs. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Activities of daily living include personal hygiene, elimination of body waste including normal and abnormal bowel and urinary function, mobility.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The relevant treatment is administered in accordance with the treatment plan and medical codes of conduct. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Treatment includes active and passive exercises, provision of medication, appropriate nutrition/diet and fluid intake, recreational and creative activities.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Procedures performed are relevant to the needs of the client and are in accordance with medical codes of conduct. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The client is constantly monitored and records are kept of changes in the client's condition in accordance with agreed procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Negatives changes in condition are identified and referred to relevant people in accordance with codes of conduct. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Assistance with rehabilitation and restoration of normal function is provided in accordance with the client's specific needs. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 5 
    Demonstrate the use of a variety of basic frail care equipment. 
    OUTCOME RANGE 
    Includes but is not limited to equipment such as:
  • Wheelchairs, crutches, walking frames
  • Nebulisers and oxygen
  • Commodes
  • Monkey chains
  • A range of equipment used to prevent pressure sores 
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Basic frail care equipment is identified in terms of its purpose and function. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The equipment is operated in accordance with manufacturer specifications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The equipment is cared for and maintained in accordance with manufacturer specifications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Alternatives are identified in terms of functions performed and equipment used. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 6 
    Demonstrate knowledge of the human rights of the frail person. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The rights of the frail person are described in accordance with relevant health care legislation and the South African Constitution. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The prevention of infringement of human rights is explained in terms of potential abuse and preventative measures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Abuse of the elderly person is explained in terms of the 'National Strategy on Elder Abuse'. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Abuse includes physical, emotional, psychological, sexual and financial abuse, as well as physical and medical neglect.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The frail person is treated with care and respect throughout all interactions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Referrals made in terms of accessing social support are made with due regard to the rights of the frail person. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Social support includes social assistance and grants.
     


    UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Anyone assessing a learner against this unit standard must be registered as an assessor with the ETQA.
  • Any institution offering learning that will enable achievement of this unit standard must be accredited as a provider through the relevant ETQA.
  • Moderation of assessment will be overseen by the relevant ETQA according to the moderation guidelines in the relevant qualification and the agreed ETQA procedures. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD DEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARD LINKAGES 
    N/A 


    Critical Cross-field Outcomes (CCFO): 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO IDENTIFYING 
    Identify and solve problems.

    Assessment Criteria:
  • The common degenerative, disease and trauma process that may affect a frail person are described in terms of the effect on the body.
  • The client's condition is assessed in terms of current health status and specific care needs.
  • A care plan is drawn up in terms of the identified needs.
  • The environment is assessed in terms of factors that may contribute to risk of the frail person. Any changes required are identified and communicated to the family in a clear and concise manner.
  • The activities of daily living routine are demonstrated to the client in accordance with his/her specific needs.
  • Negatives changes in condition are identified and referred to relevant people in accordance with codes of conduct.
  • Alternatives are identified in terms of functions performed and equipment used. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO WORKING 
    Work effectively with others in a team.

    Assessment Criteria:
  • A care plan is drawn up in terms of the identified needs.
  • The relevant treatment is administered in accordance with the treatment plan and medical codes of conduct.
  • The client is constantly monitored and records are kept of changes in the client's condition in accordance with agreed procedures.
  • Assistance with rehabilitation and restoration of normal function is provided in accordance with the client's specific needs. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    Organise and manage output of activities, and organise, manage and utilise relevant resources.

    Assessment Criteria:
  • The activities of daily living routine are demonstrated to the client in accordance with his/her specific needs.
  • The relevant treatment is administered in accordance with the treatment plan and medical codes of conduct.
  • Procedures performed are relevant to the needs of the client and are in accordance with medical codes of conduct.
  • The client is constantly monitored and records are kept of changes in the client's condition in accordance with agreed procedures.
  • The equipment is operated in accordance with manufacturer specifications.
  • The equipment is cared for and maintained in accordance with manufacturer specifications.
  • Alternatives are identified in terms of functions performed and equipment used. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COLLECTING 
    Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information.

    Assessment Criteria:
  • The client's condition is assessed in terms of current health status and specific care needs.
  • A care plan is drawn up in terms of the identified needs.
  • The environment is assessed in terms of factors that may contribute to risk of the frail person. Any changes required are identified and communicated to the family in a clear and concise manner.
  • The client is constantly monitored and records are kept of changes in the client's condition in accordance with agreed procedures.
  • Negatives changes in condition are identified and referred to relevant people in accordance with codes of conduct.
  • Assistance with rehabilitation and restoration of normal function is provided in accordance with the client's specific needs. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COMMUNICATING 
    Communicate effectively and interact with a variety of persons.

    Assessment Criteria:
  • The rights of the frail person are described in accordance with relevant health care legislation and the South African Constitution. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO SCIENCE 
    Use science and technology effectively and critically.

    Assessment Criteria:
  • Basic frail care equipment is identified in terms of its purpose and function.
  • The equipment is operated in accordance with manufacturer specifications.
  • The equipment is cared for and maintained in accordance with manufacturer specifications.
  • Alternatives are identified in terms of functions performed and equipment used. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO DEMONSTRATING 
    Demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems.

    Assessment Criteria:
  • Assistance with rehabilitation and restoration of normal function is provided in accordance with the client's specific needs.
  • Alternatives are identified in terms of functions performed and equipment used. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ASSESSOR CRITERIA 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this unit standard was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. 

    UNIT STANDARD NOTES 
    Method of Assessment
  • Direct Observation
  • Practical demonstration
  • Peer assessment
  • Case Studies
  • Questioning
  • Testimony (portfolio)
  • Objective, structured, practical evaluation


    Specified Requirements

    Specified requirements include legal and workplace specific requirements and are contained in one or more of the following documents:

    Legal
  • The guidelines for scope of practice of the Ancillary Health Worker
  • The current legislation referring to Occupational Health & Safety

    Site Specific
  • The employer's work specifications
  • Homes and communities
  • Day care centres
  • Institutions
  • Frail care facilities

    Credit Allocation

    Total hours required by the learner to achieve the required outcomes:
  • Classroom learning: 70 hours
  • On-the-job learning: 34 hours
  • Self directed learning: 2 hours
  • Coaching required: 10 hours
  • Other: Site visits and clinical accompaniment: 4 hours
  • TOTAL: 120 hours

    Credits Achieved: 12 
    		•

    QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Elective  49606   General Education and Training Certificate: Ancillary Health Care  Level 1  NQF Level 01  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  HW SETA 
    Elective  49085   National Certificate: Fundamental Ancillary Health Care  Level 2  NQF Level 02  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2009-02-18  Was HW SETA until Last Date for Achievement 
    Elective  80786   National Certificate: Home-Care Practices  Level 2  NQF Level 02  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  SERVICES 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.