Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) are written, step-by-step instructions that describe how to perform a routine activity. They help to maintain a consistent approach to a given task (i.e. staff should be completing them in the same way), which in turn helps to maintain safety, improve communication and standardise the approach.
SOPs should be easy to read and understand and contain stepwise action steps that are simple to follow, whilst highlighting any concerns or notes of considerations. The focus of the SOP should not be on what needs to be done but rather how it should be done. An SOP is a living document and will be adapted based on learning and period reviews.