Description:
Duties may vary depending on the care setting and specific ward requirements. The Health Care Assistant (HCA) is expected to carry out the responsibilities outlined below, as well as any additional duties necessary in the context of patient care.
Core Responsibilities
The Health Care Assistant will:
Perform baseline clinical observations under the direction of a Registered Nurse (e.g. blood pressure, pulse, temperature, urinalysis), following completion of required training modules.
Complete the mandatory Activities of Living – Patient Care minor module.
Assist the Registered Nurse in delivering high-quality, person-centred care in accordance with national and local HSE policies, procedures, and regulatory standards.
Demonstrate motivation and commitment to providing a professional, respectful, and compassionate service to patients and the public.
Treat all patients, families, and colleagues with dignity and courtesy, and act as an advocate for patients where appropriate.
Encourage patient participation and independence in their own care.
Maintain strict confidentiality of all information encountered in the course of work.
Work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team and contribute to a culture of respect, inclusion, and professionalism.
Quality and Safety
The Health Care Assistant will:
Support the implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of quality standards and improvement initiatives.
Adhere to all relevant legislation, HSE policies, protocols, and guidelines.
Carry out delegated duties to a high clinical standard under direction of a Registered Nurse.
Report complaints, concerns, or patient issues in accordance with service policy.
Contribute to the delivery of a person-centred service and the development of a person-centred culture.
Participate in quality reviews, service evaluations, and the implementation of corrective actions.
Health & Safety and Maintaining a Safe Environment
The Health Care Assistant will:
Comply with all health and safety legislation, policies, and procedures, including infection control and risk-management requirements.
Report accidents, incidents, near misses, hazards, or potential risks immediately and complete required documentation.
Undertake only those patient-care duties for which they have been appropriately trained.
Maintain high standards of personal and environmental hygiene in accordance with schedules and policies.
Present to work in approved uniform and footwear, with proper identification, and without personal mobile phones while delivering patient care.
Promote a safe clinical environment by identifying hazards and taking appropriate action to remove or reduce risk.
Environmental and equipment-related tasks include:
Reporting broken or unsafe equipment and removing it from use.
Assisting with the movement of equipment and furniture.
Cleaning and disinfecting patient-related equipment (e.g. IV stands, infusion pumps, hoists, beds, commodes).
Ensuring appropriate storage and infection-prevention practices for equipment.
Keeping ward areas clean, tidy, and safe.
Assisting with disposal of clinical waste.
Preparing beds and patient areas for new admissions.
Returning trays and equipment to designated storage areas.
Attending to spillages promptly to prevent accidents.
Maintaining awareness of fire safety procedures, keeping exits clear, attending mandatory fire training, and participating in fire drills.
Escorting or transporting patients within or outside the hospital.
Supporting patients requiring enhanced supervision.
Assisting with patient mobility and helping to prevent falls.
Supporting visitors to ensure their safety.
Assisting with safeguarding patients’ personal property in line with hospital policy.
Education & Training
The Health Care Assistant will:
Attend induction and mandatory in-service education.
Support the induction of new staff when requested.
Participate in team-based learning, training, and development activities.
Engage in performance appraisal and contribute to the development of a personal development plan with their line manager.
Communication and Teamwork
Effective communication is a core requirement of the HCA role.
The Health Care Assistant will:
Work in accordance with HSE values: integrity, openness, respect, support, and care.
Communicate courteously with patients, families, visitors, and all staff.
Demonstrate strong listening skills and interpret non-verbal cues appropriately.
Communicate effectively with patients, taking into account their cognitive, emotional, and physical needs.
Use appropriate communication tools (e.g. ISBAR) when reporting to nursing staff, ensuring required training is completed.
Direct all clinical queries to the Registered Nurse and accurately relay patient requests, concerns, and reports of pain or distress.
Document information accurately in line with policy.
Participate in handovers, meetings, care planning, and multidisciplinary discussions.
Maintain a calm, supportive, and therapeutic environment for patients and families.
Protect confidentiality at all times, while reporting any information that may indicate a risk of harm to a patient.
Breathing Support
The Health Care Assistant will:
Recognise signs of respiratory distress and report immediately to the Registered Nurse.
Assist with patient positioning to support effective breathing (following required training).
Bring oxygen equipment to the bedside when directed by the Nurse.
Assist patients in conserving energy and oxygen (e.g. placing frequently used items within reach).
Maintain a comfortable, well-ventilated environment and promote a calming atmosphere.
Eating and Drinking Support
Under the direction of the Registered Nurse, the Health Care Assistant will:
Assist patients in menu selection and completion of menu cards.
Prepare a clean and pleasant environment before meals (e.g. removing clutter such as urinals and commodes).
Assist patients with toileting and hand hygiene before and after meals.
Support patients with eating and drinking, including feeding when necessary.
Cut or arrange food to enable independent eating.
Monitor and document food and fluid intake for patients requiring special supervision.
Seek suitable dietary alternatives if meals are not eaten.
Make patients comfortable after meals and support oral hygiene needs.
Encourage adequate fluid intake and offer drinks regularly.
Assist with preparing simple meals or drinks in limited circumstances (e.g. out-of-hours or emergencies).