Healthcare Assistant

JOB PURPOSE

To provide and ensure high quality care to patients Demonstrate at all times the values of the Trust and philosophy of the unit Competence in the key elements of the competency profile of the role The healthcare assistant will work under the guidance of senior staff as part of a team delivering healthcare that focuses on the direct needs of service users with the supervision of the registered practitioner. To carry out specific clinical tasks and responsibilities as delegated by registered practitioners, ensuring the highest standard of care is achieved whist supporting service users, family and carers and the multidisciplinary team. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Each practitioner shall act at all times, in such a manner as to justify public trust and confidence, to uphold and enhance the good standing and reputation of their role and employer, to service the interests of society, and above all to safeguard the interests of individual patients and clients. The main purpose of the assistant practitioner is to optimise patient care. The post holder will develop skills to assist the clinical team in the assessment, monitoring and treatment of patients by undertaking specific clinical activities, performing and accurately recording and reporting appropriate tests as per protocol, for which they have received training. The post holder will undertake roles delegated by the registered professional. They will use their skills and competencies so that they can care for a group of patients with minimal supervision. Care for patients will be in accordance with set treatment protocols and the care plan as directed by the multidisciplinary team. The post holder will work towards taking responsibility for observation of patients and monitoring patient progression. Making adjustments to patient treatment programs as guided within set protocols or the registered professional and within their scope of practice. The post holder will work with registered professional supervision, reporting back client progress and informing the multidisciplinary team of any problems, and recording these discussions. The delivery of care will be in a manner sensitive to the individuals needs and wishes, acknowledging and respecting their rights and beliefs at all times. CLINICAL RESPONSIBILITIES Deliver a high standard of care as guided by instructions, the plan of care, or Trust policy. Work within clearly defined frameworks recognising at all times the boundaries to the remit of the Healthcare Assistant role. To also manage own workload under appropriate direction and supervision. Communicate with patients and their carers using tact, diplomacy, empathy and reassurance Liaise effectively and work collaboratively with team colleagues, healthcare staff across the Trust and appropriate contacts in other organisations, i.e. Adult Social Services, GPs, Community Services, Nursing and Residential homes and Voluntary Agencies, to ensure effective and coordinated patient care. To understand and carry out responsibilities in relation to Clinical Governance. Maintain accurate, up to date records of care. Maintain and develop clinical competence through Clinical Professional Development, compulsory and service specific training, peer supervision, reflective practice and clinical supervision. Respect the diversity of individual service users and colleagues ensuring that the maintenance of their dignity and your respect for them is an integrated part of all activities undertaken. Actively participate in team meetings, team development and service improvement as required. Report concerns regarding health and safety issues within the working environment to the appropriate staff and work to minimise risk at all times whilst delivering care Report untoward incidents and risks according to Trust/Employer policies and procedures and participate in incident and complaint investigations as required To work within a team supporting and assisting qualified staff in the Implementation of patient care. (to include personal hygiene, toileting, dressing , moving and handling, mobilising, making beds, serving meals and feeding patients). To adhere to patients individualised care plans as prescribed by the qualified staff and other multi-professional team members. Once assessed as competent, perform simple wound care, ECG recording, blood sugar monitoring, stoma care, catheter care, venepuncture and other clinical responsibilities as delegated by qualified nursing staff. To ensure care plans are utilised correctly and effectively under the supervision of a Registered Nurse and that all documentation adheres to the Trust Policies. To support Registered Nurses with the admission of patients. To ensure patients receive adequate nutrition and hydration. SERVICE DELIVERY RESPONSIBILITIES Communicate with patients in a therapeutic manner and ensure enquiries and concerns are addressed within the level of competence. To be able to communicate in a variety of ways which include verbal, written, and IT. To ensure clinical risks are identified, assessed and managed. To request repairs and report faults in structure and equipment as necessary to the Team Leader To assume a lead responsibility for the environment and ensure all clinical areas are clean and tidy and that they convey confidence to patients and visitors.