Clinical Skills KSBs

Core knowledge, skill and behaviours 

Use a range of skills and strategies to communicate with people about difficult matters or situations.

Acts and influences others in demonstrating non-judgemental, values-based care.

Promote and deliver safe, effective and person-centred care as part of the multi-disciplinary team.

Maintain and apply knowledge of relevant guidance, policies and legislation that govern legal and ethical aspects of service provision.

Use and contribute to the development, implementation and review of local policies, guidelines and protocols.

Monitor and maintain health, safety and security of self and others, by applying knowledge of health and safety legislation and infection control policies.

Apply critical thinking and evaluation skills to make timely and informed clinical decisions related to all aspects of the care process.

Demonstrate the ability to use technology and information systems and resources that are routinely used in practice.

Provide and share information effectively and concisely for a range of situations and contexts to ensure safety and continuity of care.

Practise in ways which recognise and respond to health inequalities, respect diversity, protect against discrimination and support others to do the same.

Apply a range of skills to promote health and well-being, improve health literacy and empower patients to share decision making.

Develop and apply clinical knowledge, skills and behaviours appropriate to specific area of practice.

Raise concerns and/or report series incidents in accordance with local reporting procedures.

Recognise the effects and potential symptoms of trauma or vicarious trauma and respond appropriately. Practising at a minimum of Trauma Informed practice level.

Ability to escalate concerns if unable to carry out their duty and responsibilities outlined within health and care staffing legislation. Practising at Informed level.

Specific knowledge, skills and behaviours for vaccinators 

Promotes and applies culturally sensitive approaches during vaccine conversations, especially with individuals from minoritised communities. 

Promotes and delivers accessible vaccination using flexible, culturally competent approaches that reduce barriers and support inclusive and equitable care.

Works proactively to support vaccine uptake among all age groups and communities, particularly those with lower uptake, through person-centred communication and flexible delivery approaches.

Participates in delivering vaccination services in collaboration with community, voluntary, or third-sector organisations to improve access and uptake.

Identifies and responds to social determinants of health that impact vaccine uptake, using inclusive communication and flexible approaches.

Assesses and responds to differing health literacy levels during vaccination conversations, using tailored communication and verified resources.

Addresses vaccine hesitancy and false information through evidence-based communication, supporting individuals to make informed decisions aligned with national guidance.  

Obtains valid informed consent by delivering person-centred vaccination conversations that clearly explain benefits, risks and options, address hesitancy, assess capacity where required, and support individuals (or their legal guardians) to make informed decisions. 

Assess capacity and document consent in line with local policy and legal requirements.

Identifies and responds to public protection risks during vaccination encounters, including disclosures or concerns in children or vulnerable adults. 

Assess capacity and document consent in line with local policy and legal requirements.

Identifies and responds to public protection risks during vaccination encounters, including disclosures or concerns in children or vulnerable adults. 

Delivers safe, person-centred vaccine administration using clinical judgement, best practice guidance, and established consent and safety procedures.

Assesses risk and initiates referrals or clinical handover where specialist advice, urgent care, or follow-up is needed.

Navigates complex vaccination pathways confidently, including travel, specialist, and catch-up schedules.

Supports individuals and families in navigating healthcare and vaccination pathways, helping them understand options, processes, and how to access support services.

Identifies digital barriers around accessing services and offers through alternative formats including assisted digital options.

Coordinates scheduling and resource allocation to improve clinic flow and reduce missed opportunities.

Co-ordinates delivery within vaccination clinics, manages risk, ensures patient safety, and supports junior staff.

Coordinates with midwives, pharmacists, social care teams and other NHS provided vaccine services, to ensure joined-up care. 

Identifies opportunities to reduce environmental impact in clinic operations (e.g., reducing single-use plastics).  

Takes responsibility for maintaining vaccine storage standards, including cold chain compliance, secure storage, accurate stock reconciliation, and timely reporting of incidents or discrepancies.

Applies sound judgement when using digital vaccination systems to ensure data integrity, confidentiality, and alignment with clinical protocols.

Demonstrates up-to-date knowledge of national immunisation guidance (e.g., Green Book, CMO letters, NES updates) and ensures that personal practice aligns with current recommendations.