Case Study

The nursery you work in is having a bit of a growth spurt and has taken on some new staff. They are fortunate enough to have acquired fully qualified staff from other local nurseries.

The baby room, where you work, is gaining a mature lady who comes highly recommended and has a number of childcare qualifications. Everyone is delighted as parents always seem to want more experienced staff in the baby room. It is now the new lady’s first day and she is being shown around, having already been shown the nursery’s policies and procedures.

During the afternoon, there is a small incident where one of the baby’s nappies starts to leak. The new lady quickly notices and picks up the baby, saying “oh dear, lets clean you up”. She whisks the baby to the changing table and proceeds to clean up and change the baby. Her manner is lovely; she is gentle, kind, and speaks to the baby the whole time; however, she has not put on an apron and gloves. When you politely point this out to her, she responds, “Don’t worry, I don’t mind; I’ll wash my hands afterwards. We couldn’t let the nappy continue to leak, could we?”

1. How would you respond to this?
2. Is the lady’s comment acceptable?
3. Has a clear procedure been outlined to this lady?
4. Is it something you would challenge with her? Or would you refer it to your room leader or manager?
5. Have you ever been guilty of lowering your standards for ease or speed?

It is rare that there is just one way to respond to a scenario or situation, so do not consider that the response you have chosen to this scenario will be judged as right or wrong. Share your scenario with a work colleague and ask them to tell you if they think you have responded appropriately. Ask them to challenge your response if necessary. You do not need to submit this task for assessment unless asked to do so by your tutor.