Healthcare Assistant - ITU inLiverpool inLiverpool PUBLISHED TUE 12 NOV 2024

Band 2 PERMANENT
INTENSIVE THERAPY UNIT NHS VISA

Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust r4GclzDY

The Healthcare Assistant (HCA) role in the Intensive Therapy Unit (ITU) at Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust involves supporting trained nursing staff in providing high-quality care for critically ill patients. This position requires assisting with personal hygiene, meal preparation, and maintaining a clean and safe environment. The role also includes responsibilities like stock control and equipment maintenance. Candidates should ideally possess a Level 2 NVQ and have experience in acute healthcare settings. The environment is challenging yet rewarding, and applicants are encouraged to visit the unit informally to better understand the demands of the role.

Successful candidates must demonstrate reliability, flexibility, and strong communication skills, as the role involves shift work in a high-stress area focused on patient recovery from severe multi-organ failure. A commitment to infection prevention and the careful handling of patients is essential. Full and part-time positions are available, and the starting salary for skilled visa applicants will rise to £23,200 starting April 2024.

Critical Care at the Royal Liverpool comprises of a 18 bedded Intensive Therapy Unit (ITU), a 4 bedded post-operative critical care unit (POCCU) and a 14 bedded High Dependency Unit (HDU). These will be combined into one Critical Care Unit in October 2022 with the move to the New RoyalWe care for patients who have severe multi-organ failure and who are receiving invasive technology and monitoring support. The areas are clinically, physically and emotionally demanding though extremely satisfying when our patients improve and are transferred from Critical Care.

Under the supervision and direction of a registered nurse assisting the Ward / Department team in providing the highest possible standard of basic care for patients and their families/carer

From 4 th April 2024 the minimum salary requirement for a skilled visa increases to £23,200. We strongly encourage applicants who require sponsorship to review the eligibility criteria at www.jobsincare.com/job/jbnsGKJA

We are looking for highly motivated staff to join our group of HCAs in our Critical Care Group. The role involves assisting the trained staff with some elements of patient care, mobilisation etc but also involves stock control, cleaning and maintenance of equipment, patient bedspaces, and general maintenance of a clean and safe environment for our patients. Please see Job Description and Personal Specification. Full and part time roles available.Preference will be given to candidates with a Level 2 NVQ as minimum and ideally, experience of working in an acute healthcare setting. Candidates must be reliable, flexible and caring individuals who have good written and verbal communication. The post will involve shift work.Due to the nature of our patients, and the emotionally demanding atmosphere within Critical Care, it is recommended that applicants invited for interview arrange an informal visit to the unit.

About us
Care Duties

Assist patients in meeting their hygiene needs and carry out all aspects of personal care and grooming (to include emptying catheter bags).

Provision of patients toileting needs, ensuring privacy and dignity is maintained.

Preparation and serving of patients meals, drinks and snacks. Assisting / feeding patients as necessary.

Carry out any movement and handling within the safe practice guidelines from mandatory training and in relation to the patients manual handling plan.

Assist in the prevention of pressure sore development as directed by the Registered nurse in conjunction with the patients plan of care.

Maintain strict adherence to Infection Prevention policies

Assist Registered Nurse in performing last offices.

This list is not exhaustive and other duties are required and expected from the successful candidate. Informal visits are encouraged

More information related to this job opportunity, from jobsincare:

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More about the NHS

The National Health Service (NHS) is a cornerstone of healthcare in the United Kingdom, established in 1948 with the simple yet profound principle of providing healthcare to all citizens, free at the point of use. This revolutionary system aimed to ensure that access to medical services would not depend on an individual’s financial situation, a concept that has since become fundamental to British societal values. Learn more...

Useful skills for a Healthcare Assistant - ITU: Click to view

To work as a Healthcare Assistant (HCA) in the UK, you need a combination of practical skills, personal qualities, and a basic understanding of healthcare principles. While specific requirements might vary depending on the employer or the care setting, here are the key skills and attributes typically required:

Essential Skills:

1. Communication Skills:

- Ability to communicate effectively with patients, families, and healthcare professionals.

- Good listening skills to understand patients' needs and concerns.

2. Empathy and Compassion:

- Understanding and sensitivity to the feelings of patients.

- Ability to provide emotional support and reassurance.

3. Basic Clinical Skills:

- Understanding of basic health and hygiene standards.

- Ability to assist with daily living activities (bathing, dressing, feeding, etc.).

- Monitoring vital signs (blood pressure, temperature, pulse) can also be necessary.

4. Teamwork:

- Ability to work collaboratively with other healthcare professionals.

- Being a supportive team player.

5. Time Management:

- Ability to prioritize tasks efficiently in a fast-paced environment.

- Managing time effectively to ensure all patients receive appropriate care.

6. Attention to Detail:

- Being meticulous in following care plans and documenting changes in patients’ conditions.

- Paying close attention to patient safety.

7. Problem Solving Skills:

- Ability to respond to a variety of situations and challenges quickly and effectively.

- Competence in recognizing changes in a patient's condition and taking appropriate action.

8. Physical Stamina:

- Capability to perform physically demanding tasks, such as lifting and moving patients.

- Maintaining energy and stamina for long shifts.

Personal Qualities:

- Patience: Working in healthcare can be challenging; patience is crucial when dealing with patients who may be distressed or unwell.

- Reliability: Being dependable and trustworthy is essential for providing good patient care.

- Adaptability: Flexibility to handle varying work environments and situations.

- Respectfulness: Maintaining dignity for patients and treating them respectfully.

Training and Qualifications:

While formal qualifications may not always be required, having a relevant qualification, such as a Level 2 or Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care, can be beneficial. Some employers provide on-the-job training, and courses in first aid, safeguarding, or infection control may also be useful.

Experience:

Any previous experience in healthcare, customer service, or caring environments can greatly enhance your application. Volunteering in hospitals, care homes, or community services can provide valuable experience and skills.

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53.409481048583984 -2.962024688720703 Liverpool

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