Nutritional Assistant inHarrogate inHarrogate PUBLISHED
THU 24 OCT 2024
The Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust is seeking a dedicated Nutritional Assistant to join their multidisciplinary team in the Trauma and Orthopaedics department. This role is crucial for providing first-line nutritional support to patients, particularly those identified as nutritionally at risk. Responsibilities include helping patients select meals, assisting with dining, weighing patients, and coordinating with dieticians and the Speech and Language Team to ensure comprehensive care.
Candidates should have a keen interest in science, food, and patient lifestyles, along with excellent communication and organisational skills. While experience in a similar role is not required as training will be provided, previous care experience is essential. The successful applicant will actively participate in promoting protected mealtimes and supporting the overall recovery of patients through effective nutritional assistance.
Candidates should have a keen interest in science, food, and patient lifestyles, along with excellent communication and organisational skills. While experience in a similar role is not required as training will be provided, previous care experience is essential. The successful applicant will actively participate in promoting protected mealtimes and supporting the overall recovery of patients through effective nutritional assistance.
Are you passionate about nutrition and patient care? We are looking for a motivated and hardworking individual to join our friendly MDT within Trauma and Orthopaedics. Nutritional assistants are vital in helping patients with their diet and nutrition to aid recovery. This position will involve providing patients with first line nutritional support in conjunction with our dieticians.
We are looking for Nutritional Assistants with:
- an interest in science and food
- an interest in people and their lifestyles
- a positive and motivating attitude
- an understanding approach
- patience
- excellent organisation skills
- excellent communication skills
You do not need to have experience within this role as we will provide you with full training. Previous care experience is essential for this role.
You will be:
-
- Providing 'first line' nutritional support to patients identified as 'nutritionally at risk'
- Helping patients to choose their meals
- Assisting patients with meals and drinks
- Referring to Dieticians and the Speech and Language Team
- Weighing patients
- Working in close collaboration with the MDT
- Actively involved in ensuring that protected mealtimes are implemented
Please refer to the job description for full details of the role.
About us
For further information on this position please see the Job Description and Personal Specification attached. If you have any questions, please contact Gemma Umpleby
or
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Useful skills for a Nutritional Assistant:
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To work as a Nutritional Assistant in the UK, you typically need a combination of education, training, and skills. Here are some of the key skills and qualifications that are beneficial:
Educational Qualifications:
1. Relevant Qualifications: A level 2 (or equivalent) qualification in nutrition, food safety, health & social care, or dietetics can be advantageous. Some roles may require a higher qualification, such as a degree in nutrition or dietetics.
2. Health and Safety Certification: Understanding health and safety regulations related to food handling and preparation.
Skills:
1. Knowledge of Nutrition: A strong understanding of nutrition and dietary requirements, including special diets for medical conditions.
2. Communication Skills: Ability to effectively communicate nutritional information to patients, clients, and other healthcare professionals.
3. Interpersonal Skills: Being approachable and empathetic to help clients feel comfortable discussing their dietary needs.
4. Organizational Skills: Ability to manage multiple tasks, such as meal planning, inventory management, and record-keeping.
5. Attention to Detail: Careful attention to dietary specifications and individual preferences to ensure proper nutrition.
6. Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to adapt meal plans based on individual needs and preferences.
7. Technical Skills: Familiarity with computers and related software for managing dietary records and nutritional information.
8. Teamwork: Ability to work collaboratively with healthcare teams, including dietitians, chefs, and other staff.
Additional Training:
1. Food Hygiene Training: Understanding best practices in food preparation and hygiene.
2. Customer Service Skills: Being friendly and supportive, especially when dealing with clients/patients in healthcare settings.
Experience:
1. Work Experience: Experience in healthcare, catering, or dietary services can be helpful.
2. Volunteering: Gaining experience by volunteering in hospitals, community centres, or care homes.
Regulatory Considerations:
In some cases, it might be necessary to register with a professional body, particularly if you advance your career or specialize further.
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