PURPOSE To assist nursing staff in ensuring that the highest possible standards of patient care, which reflects the philosophy, ethos and behaviours of St Lukes (Cheshire) Hospice and work within the policy and procedure framework as adopted by the Hospice based on the NMC Code of Conduct and care certificate. Key Tasks and Responsibilities Clinical Tasks Through guidance from qualified staff, be able to assist patients with all aspects of daily living, acknowledging their personal preferences, rights and choices and promoting privacy, dignity and respect for personal values and identity. Be aware of the communication needs of patients and significant others and use a range of effective interpersonal skills to aid communication. Become aware of the recognised grief reactions to terminal illness in patients and carers in order to be able to offer care and support. Recognise changes in patients, both physical and emotional and report them to qualified staff. Following appropriate training, to safely undertake the following duties under guidance and supervision of a qualified nurse or therapist:- Assist in the safe delivery of medications Catheter care Gastrostomy feeds and administration of feeds via the gastrostomy tube Temperature observation during blood transfusions Simple massage of patients Participate in essential ward cleaning duties. To be supportive to volunteers, students and staff on duty in the Hospice. Ensure confidentiality in all aspects of patient care, including the safe storage of information. To have a welcoming approach to patients and visitors, and assist in ensuring a safe and comfortable environment. Assist in the monitoring and maintenance of a healthy, safe and secure working environment ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements for patients, visitors and self. Educational To increase the knowledge of risks and cross infection in patient care and work accordingly. Participate in role specific statutory & mandatory teaching sessions organised for staff and volunteers Follow appropriate training to act as a mentor for other nursing assistants from other care settings. Introduce volunteers and visitors to the layout of the Hospice. Be aware of the written policies and procedures of St Lukes (Cheshire) Hospice in order to maintain a safe environment. Take responsibility for own learning and development by recognising and taking advantage of all opportunities to learn. Complete the care certificate with support from staff within 3 months Personnel To follow agreed policies of St Lukes (Cheshire) Hospice with regard to sickness and absence, grievance and disciplinary procedures. Complete self-certification forms following an episode of sickness or absence. Report to Senior Nurse on duty. Participate in meetings. Recognise the potentiality of stress creating aspects of the work, accept and give support to others. Assist in maintaining a close working relationship with volunteers This job description is not exhaustive and is subject to review in conjunction with the post holder and according to future changes/developments in the service. Personal Development The post holder will be expected to maintain high professional standards and keep abreast of professional issues and best practice in their area of specialism. The Hospice will support relevant education and development opportunities whenever possible and as agreed as part of personal development discussions and to meet core skills requirements and competencies. Health & Safety & Security Under health and safety legislation, each individual has a legal responsibility for their own welfare and for the health and safety of others and to co-operate in maintaining their place of work in a tidy and safe condition, thereby minimising risk. The Hospice has a Health & Safety Policy which applies to all staff. Similarly, it is each persons responsibility to ensure a secure environment and bring any breaches of security to the attention of their manager. Equal Opportunities St Lukes Cheshire Hospice has given its full commitment to the adoption and promotion of the key principles of equal opportunities contained within current legislation and St Lukes Cheshire Hospice Equality & Diversity Policy. Confidentiality In the course of your duties, you will have access to confidential material about members of staff, volunteers, other hospice business and patients. The Hospice has Data Protection Policy which applies to all staff. St Lukes Cheshire Hospice is committed to safeguarding adults and children and expects all staff to share in this commitment. Staff have a responsibility to ensure that they are aware of specific duties relating to their role and should familiarise themselves with the Hospices Safeguarding Policies. Safeguarding training is mandatory for all staff.