Professional Patient Care Assistance Level 5 Diploma
The ICTQual Level 5 Diploma in Patient Care Assistance is a professional qualification designed for individuals seeking advanced skills and knowledge in providing high-quality care and support to patients across healthcare settings. This programme equips learners with the practical expertise and theoretical understanding required to work effectively as patient care assistants in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and community care services.
Learners gain comprehensive training in patient observation, basic clinical procedures, medication support, hygiene and infection control, communication, and safeguarding practices. The course also focuses on understanding patient needs, promoting wellbeing, and supporting healthcare professionals in delivering safe, person-centred care.
This qualification is ideal for healthcare assistants, support workers, and individuals aiming to progress in patient care roles or develop a pathway toward more senior healthcare positions. On completion, learners hold a nationally recognized Level 5 diploma that enhances employability, builds confidence in professional care delivery, and provides a strong foundation for further study in healthcare, nursing, or related disciplines.
Program Outline
The ICTQual Level 5 Diploma in Patient Care Assistance is a comprehensive, career-focused qualification designed to equip learners with advanced knowledge and practical skills required for professional patient care roles. This 50-credit programme consists of six detailed units covering essential areas such as patient observation, basic clinical procedures, medication support, hygiene and infection control, safeguarding, and communication in healthcare settings.
Core Learning Areas
Learners study patient observation, basic clinical procedures, medication support, hygiene, infection control, and safeguarding practices. The course also includes communication skills, understanding patient needs, and promoting wellbeing.
Professional Practices and Ethics
The programme covers ethical standards, confidentiality, professional conduct, and working collaboratively with healthcare teams to ensure safe and effective patient care.
Practical Application
Students gain hands-on skills essential for assisting healthcare professionals in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and community care settings. The diploma prepares learners to contribute confidently to patient care while maintaining high standards of safety, professionalism, and empathy.
This qualification is ideal for learners looking to advance their healthcare careers, support patient care teams effectively, and progress to higher-level healthcare or nursing studies.
This qualification, the ICTQual Level 5 Diploma in Patient Care Assistance, consists of 6 mandatory units.
- Advanced Patient Care and Support Practices
- Clinical Procedures and Health Monitoring
- Infection Prevention and Control in Healthcare
- Communication, Professional Relationships, and Ethical Practice
- Leadership, Supervision, and Team Management in Healthcare
- Emergency Response and Risk Management in Patient Care
Who Can Benefit
- Healthcare assistants and support workers seeking advanced training
- Individuals aiming to progress into senior or specialist patient care roles
- Those working in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, or community care who want formal recognition of their skills
- Students pursuing a career pathway in healthcare, nursing, or allied health professions
This course is suitable for learners with prior experience or qualifications in healthcare or care work, providing a pathway to enhanced career opportunities and professional development clear understanding of animal activity licensing requirements, welfare standards, and legal responsibilities to operate ethically and in compliance with current legislation.
Learning Outcomes for the ICTQual Level 5 Diploma in Patient Care Assistance:
Advanced Patient Care and Support Practices
- Develop advanced skills in supporting patients with complex care needs.
- Understand principles of person-centered care and holistic patient support.
- Apply safe and effective techniques for assisting with daily living activities.
- Recognize the physical, emotional, and psychological needs of patients.
- Learn to implement individualized care plans in collaboration with healthcare professionals.
- Develop competence in monitoring patient wellbeing and adjusting support accordingly.
- Maintain patient dignity, privacy, and independence while providing care.
- Gain confidence in managing multiple patient care responsibilities in various healthcare settings.
Clinical Procedures and Health Monitoring
- Understand advanced clinical procedures relevant to patient care support.
- Develop skills in monitoring vital signs and recognizing early warning signs of health deterioration.
- Gain experience in assisting with medical interventions and treatments under supervision.
- Learn to document observations accurately and maintain patient records.
- Apply knowledge of anatomy and physiology to support clinical decision-making.
- Understand protocols for assisting patients with medications, therapies, or medical devices.
- Develop confidence in responding to routine and complex healthcare needs.
- Contribute effectively to multidisciplinary healthcare teams during clinical procedures.
Infection Prevention and Control in Healthcare
- Understand advanced principles of infection prevention and control.
- Learn techniques for maintaining hygiene and sanitation in healthcare environments.
- Apply personal protective equipment (PPE) correctly in various clinical situations.
- Understand procedures for handling and disposing of medical waste safely.
- Recognize the importance of preventing cross-contamination and healthcare-associated infections.
- Develop knowledge of healthcare legislation and safety protocols related to infection control.
- Learn to identify, report, and respond to infection risks effectively.
- Build confidence in maintaining a safe and healthy environment for patients and staff.
Communication, Professional Relationships, and Ethical Practice
- Develop advanced communication skills for interactions with patients, families, and healthcare teams.
- Understand the importance of empathy, active listening, and emotional intelligence in patient care.
- Learn to convey sensitive information effectively and professionally.
- Build strong professional relationships based on trust, respect, and collaboration.
- Apply ethical principles and maintain patient confidentiality at all times.
- Develop skills to manage conflict and challenging situations professionally.
- Understand cultural competence and provide inclusive care to diverse patient populations.
- Enhance teamwork and collaborative practices within healthcare environments.
Leadership, Supervision, and Team Management in Healthcare
- Develop skills to supervise and support junior staff or volunteers effectively.
- Understand leadership principles and their application in healthcare settings.
- Learn to delegate responsibilities and manage team workflows efficiently.
- Develop strategies for motivating and mentoring staff to maintain high standards of care.
- Understand policies, procedures, and quality assurance requirements in healthcare.
- Build competence in evaluating team performance and identifying areas for improvement.
- Develop confidence in making informed decisions and problem-solving in team management.
- Support multidisciplinary teams to ensure smooth operation and optimal patient care outcomes.
Emergency Response and Risk Management in Patient Care
- Learn to respond effectively to medical emergencies and critical situations.
- Develop skills in assessing risks and implementing safety measures in healthcare settings.
- Understand protocols for emergency procedures and patient evacuation if required.
- Gain knowledge of first aid, life support, and urgent care techniques.
- Recognize hazards in the healthcare environment and take proactive steps to minimize them.
- Learn to maintain calm and make decisions under pressure during emergencies.
- Understand documentation and reporting requirements following incidents or emergencies.
- Build confidence in contributing to risk management strategies and patient safety initiatives.
