Healthcare Assistant (HCA) - Urgent Care Centres (MUST have Urgent centre or A&E hospital/walk in centre experience)
Location: Birmingham, Walsall, Dudley, Telford, Shrewsbury, Sandwell
Job Type: Locum
Rates of pay: £12 to £18 PAYE or Umbrella
Shifts Available:
* Monday to Sunday : Various shifts available (9am to 3pm, 3pm to 9pm, 9am to 9pm)
* Flexibility to work additional hours within our Urgent Care and Primary Care divisions.
Job Summary:
We are currently seeking a skilled and compassionate Healthcare Assistant (HCA) to join our Urgent Care Services. The successful candidate will play a vital role in supporting the clinical team to deliver high-quality care to service users, assisting in their initial assessment and ensuring their healthcare needs are met. This is an excellent opportunity for those seeking flexibility and wanting to make a meaningful difference in urgent care settings.
Key Responsibilities:
As an HCA, your key responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:
* Clinical Responsibilities:
o Assisting in the streaming and initial assessment of service users in the Urgent Care Centre.
o Conducting basic observations including blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, respiratory rate, capillary refill, and saturations.
o Taking medical histories and checking medication and allergy status.
o Performing urine dipstick tests, pregnancy tests, and other basic clinical tasks as required.
o Following protocols to help determine appropriate clinical pathways using early warning scores.
o Escalating to senior clinicians if any service user becomes acutely unwell during assessment.
* Communication:
o Communicate effectively with patients, their carers, and clinical team members.
o Recognise and respond appropriately to any need for alternative communication methods.
* Quality Assurance:
o Strive to maintain high standards within the service, reporting any concerns regarding quality or risks.
o Take accountability for your actions, and contribute to the effectiveness of the team by reflecting on activities and suggesting improvements.
o Work collaboratively with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive patient care.
* Personal and People Development:
o Take responsibility for your personal development, participating in training and supervision as required.
o Maintain a record of your professional development.
o Recognise the roles and responsibilities of other team members.
* Health, Safety, and Security:
o Follow security procedures and maintain a safe working environment by adhering to infection control protocols.
o Ensure the safe storage and disposal of medical supplies, drugs, and vaccines.
o Report and manage health risks, including handling sharps injuries and cleaning up spillages.
* Service Improvement:
o Participate in audits and service development projects as required.
o Assist in maintaining patient education materials and health promotion materials in the waiting area.
* Information Management:
o Accurately record patient information and activities in a timely manner using the appropriate systems.
o Maintain confidentiality and adhere to data protection guidelines.
Qualifications and Experience:
* NVQ Level 3 in Health and Social Care (or equivalent).
* Care Certificate (or equivalent).
* Previous experience working in an emergency department, walk-in centre, or primary care setting is preferred.
* Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with people at all levels.
* Ability to work under pressure and manage time efficiently.
* Basic knowledge of health and safety and infection control standards.