We are looking for enthusiastic, innovative individuals to join our team and to continue to develop our high quality care delivery to patients. The post holder will work across 24 hour shift pattern as part of a rota with flexibility to cover shifts on an ad hoc basis.
Lindsey Lodge Health Care, will provide you with exciting opportunities to develop your skills and competencies within palliative and end of life care as we continue to develop our services with our partners.
The Healthcare Assistant (HCA) is a member of a multidisciplinary hospice team who undertakes duties in relation to patient care and hospice administration, supporting the organisations commitment to quality and the expectations of high quality nursing care in the Hospice setting.
Delegated work and duties will be assigned and carried out under the direct and indirect supervision of a Registered Nurse as appropriate, in accordance with the Hospice Clinical Competencies. Within the hospice there are opportunities for development within a supportive team and provision of clinical supervision.
Lindsey Lodge Hospice & Healthcare provides specialist palliative care to patients with life-limiting conditions and supports their family and carers during illness and into the bereavement period.
We aim to further develop the highest quality of care in North Lincolnshire, meet individual needs and facilitate choice.
We aspire to be a responsive and innovative organisation and become a centre of excellence with our service users at the heart of all we do.
Job description
Job responsibilities
1 To maintain the highest possible standards of compassionate and professional patient care with particular attention to privacy and dignity
2 Assist with the implementation of care delegated by Registered Nursing Staff for which training has been given and competencies achieved.
3 Assist patients with personal care, hygiene and sanitary needs, ensuring privacy and dignity is maintained
4 Assist in the care both physical, emotional and social needs of the patient and their families.
5 Assist in meeting patients nutritional needs, including non-oral nutritional and fluid intake. Ensure that patients who require assistance at mealtimes are assisted with eating and drinking
6 Where identified in the plan of care, ensure that food and fluid intake and elimination output are accurately documented on appropriate charts.
7 Assist in skin and pressure area care to prevent pressure ulcers developing. Under the supervision of registered nurses, ensure patients are helped to move position to prevent discomfort and / or pressure ulcers and promote effective respiratory function.
8 Assist patients with safe mobilisation according to their plan of care and where appropriate seek help from other members of the hospice team.
9 Utilise appropriate moving and handling aids to reduce the risk of injury to the patient and themselves
10 Assist in supporting therapeutic recreational activities for patients as appropriate
11 Contribute to the assessment, implementation and evaluation of care.
12 Communicate effectively with all staff members.
13 Help to ensure a high standard of general cleanliness of the unit.
14 Observe patients and report any concerns/changes promptly in condition, to the nurse responsible for the patients care.
15 Take responsibility for the removal and safe disposal of clinical waste.
16 Participate in audits following support or training e.g. hand washing, environmental observations.
17 Ensure privacy, dignity, and confidentiality for patients and families is maintained at all times.
18 Support trained nurses in their roles as instructed.
19 Participate in end of life care which will include Last Offices
20 Participate in social activities to offer further support to patients and families.
21 Assist registered staff in the taking and recording of vital signs as per the patients plan of care
22 Be aware of and contribute to the protection of individuals from abuse and report any suspicions of abuse to the nurse in charge
23 Have a duty and a responsibility to protect vulnerable adults, children and young people in accordance with National Guidelines, local policies and training.
24 Be aware of the framework for the Mental Capacity Act (2005
25 Contribute to the emotional support of identified patients who may be anxious or upset.
26 Recognise and promote the patients rights, cultural beliefs and values
Communication
1 Communicate with patients and relatives in a courteous, caring, sensitive and appropriate manner, and refer to the nurse in charge as required
2 Report any incidents, accidents, concerns, near misses or complaints to the nurse in charge or using the VANTAGE System
3 Maintain good relationships with all colleagues in the hospice community and hospitals.
4 Attend relevant unit meetings and contribute to the Clinical Supervision sessions provided by the hospice.
5 Be aware of the reputation of the hospice and ensure that it is upheld.
6 Demonstrate positive behaviours and effective communications, particularly as practices and changes occur.
7 Do not accept gifts from patients and families without discussion with the Senior Nurse.
Education
1 Understand that personal development is the responsibility of the individual.
2 Participate where appropriate, in helping to develop the skills and knowledge of yourself and others.
3 Support and help registered nurses in the development and orientation of other HCAs, learners and students within the team. Participate in educational programmes when required and continuous training.
4 Undertake and satisfactorily complete mandatory training and Participate in own annual performance appraisal.
5 To take responsibility for being up to date with current policies and procedures and know where and how to access these of the Lindsey Lodge L Drive.
6 Co-operate fully in the introduction of any new technology and methods as appropriate.
7 Undertake and satisfactorily complete mandatory training and annual performance appraisal (PADR).
8 Successfully complete all training programmes and relevant study days as required
Other Responsibilities
1. Be responsible for maintaining and promoting the tidiness and cleanliness of all patient areas, including equipment rooms and storerooms, and take appropriate care of furniture and equipment.
2. Be aware of the cost of equipment and clinical consumables and take responsibility for safe and appropriate use
3. Ensure beds and equipment are properly cleaned between patient use in align with infection control standards
4. Adhere to infection control policy and procedures demonstrating an understanding of universal precautions and good hand hygiene
5. Undertake clinical skills in which you have received training and have been deemed to be competent in by appropriately trained and experienced registered practitioner as per Trust guidance.
Be of smart appearance and wear the correct uniform in accordance with the Hospice Uniform and Dress Code policies
