Health Care Assistant

Job purpose

Support the nursing team in providing safe, respectful and compassionate patient care. Carry out assigned duties under the supervision of a Registered Nurse and within the limits of training and competence.

Key responsibilities

• Assist patients with personal hygiene, dressing, toileting and other daily needs.
• Take and record patients’ vital signs, including blood pressure, pulse, temperature, respiratory rate and oxygen saturation, following training and clinic procedures. Immediately report abnormal readings or changes to the Registered Nurse.  
• Help patients with meals and hydration, following nursing instructions and dietary requirements.
• Assist with patient mobility, positioning and transfers using safe handling techniques.
• Prepare beds and maintain a clean, comfortable patient environment.
• Support patient comfort, privacy and dignity at all times.
• Observe patients and promptly report changes, discomfort or concerns to the Registered Nurse.
• Measure and record basic observations only when trained, assessed as competent and authorised.
• Assist nurses with patient care between departments when instructed and appropriate.
• Maintain stocks of linen, consumables and other patient care supplies.
• Clean and prepare designated equipment according to clinic procedures.
• Follow infection prevention, hand hygiene and waste disposal requirements.
• Complete assigned records accurately and report incidents promptly.
• Maintain patient confidentiality and communicate courteously with patients, relatives and colleagues.
• Perform other reasonable duties within the scope of the role.

Qualifications and experience

• Recognised Healthcare Assistant training or a relevant qualification.
• Previous patient care experience preferred.
• Basic literacy, numeracy and communication skills.
• Willingness to complete required training and competency assessments.

Skills and professional standards

• Compassion, patience and respect for patients.
• Reliability, punctuality and professional grooming.
• Good teamwork and ability to follow instructions.
• Awareness of patient safety and confidentiality.
• Safe patient handling practices.