Skötselpraxis

Skötselpraxis is a Swedish term describing the practical approach to everyday care in health and social care settings. It encompasses routines, tasks and decision-making intended to support individuals who require assistance with daily functioning. The scope includes hospital wards, primary care, home care and municipal services, with a focus on safety, dignity and person-centered support.

Core components of skötselpraxis include basic nursing tasks such as hygiene, nutrition and mobility, as well as medication administration under supervision, observation and reporting, documentation, infection prevention and ethical considerations. The practice aims to align with patient goals, respect autonomy, and promote continuity of care across care providers and settings.

The practice is guided by national standards and guidelines from authorities such as Socialstyrelsen (the National Board of Health and Welfare) and SALAR (the Swedish Association of Local Authorities and Regions). It is supported by education programs for care workers, nurses and allied personnel, and emphasizes evidence-based methods, standardized routines and the use of care plans and electronic journals. Ongoing professional development and supervision are typical features.

Implementation of skötselpraxis faces challenges, including staffing levels, variation in uptake between municipalities, and the need to balance efficiency with quality. The integration of digital tools and data-driven quality improvement is increasingly common. Regular audits, interprofessional collaboration and national guideline updates help maintain safety, effectiveness and patient-centered outcomes.