Healthcare Assistant
Position: Healthcare Assistant
Department: Clinical Services
Reports To: Senior Nurse / Ward Manager
Location: Gaelan Hospital
About Gaelan Hospital
At Gaelan Hospital, we are committed to providing exceptional, compassionate, and patient-centered care. We believe in a holistic approach to healing, where every member of our clinical team plays a vital role in supporting patient well-being and recovery. Join us in our mission to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our patients and their families.
The Role
We are seeking a dedicated and empathetic Healthcare Assistant to become an integral part of our clinical team. You will work directly under the supervision of registered nurses and medical professionals to provide essential daily care and support to patients, ensuring their comfort, dignity, and safety. Your compassionate presence and attentive care will be key to creating a supportive and healing environment.
Key Responsibilities
Direct Patient Care:
- Assist patients with personal care needs, including washing, dressing, oral hygiene, toileting, and mobilization.
- Help with feeding and ensuring adequate hydration.
- Make beds, tidy patient areas, and ensure a clean and safe environment.
- Support patients in their daily activities and promote their independence where possible.
Clinical Support:
- Measure and accurately record patients’ vital signs (e.g., temperature, pulse, respiration rate, blood pressure) and report any changes or concerns to the nursing staff.
- Assist with simple wound care and dressing changes as directed.
- Collect and label specimens (e.g., urine, stool).
- Safely use equipment such as hoists, wheelchair, and patient monitors after training.
Communication and Support:
- Provide emotional support, reassurance, and companionship to patients and their families.
- Act as a key communication link between patients, nurses, and other healthcare professionals.
- Listen to patients' concerns and report them to the relevant team member.
- Maintain accurate and timely patient records as required.
Team & Ward Duties:
- Assist with the preparation of beds and rooms for new admissions.
- Restock clinical supplies and ensure equipment is clean and ready for use.
- Escort patients to other departments within the hospital.
- Adhere strictly to all hospital policies, including infection prevention and control, health & safety, and confidentiality (GDPR).
Person Specification
Essential Qualifications & Experience:
- A genuine passion for caring for others and a compassionate nature.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- The ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Physical stamina and the ability to perform manual handling tasks.
- Reliable, punctual, and trustworthy with a strong sense of responsibility.
- Respect for patient dignity, privacy, and confidentiality.
- A willingness to learn and follow instructions.
Desirable (but not essential, as training will be provided):
- A recognized Care Certificate or NVQ/QQI Level 2/3 in Health and Social Care.
- Previous experience in a healthcare, care home, or similar setting.
- Basic understanding of vital signs and personal care procedures.
What We Offer
- Comprehensive Training: Full induction and ongoing professional development.
- Supportive Environment: Work as part of a dedicated and friendly team in a patient-centered culture.
- Career Progression: Opportunities for further training and career advancement within the hospital.
- Benefits Package: Competitive salary, pension scheme, and access to employee health and well-being programs.
- Meaningful Work: The chance to make a real, positive impact on patients' lives every day.
