Healthcare Assistant

County Durham & Darlington NHS Foundation Trust

2mo ago

Job
Full-time
Junior & Mid Level
Healthcare
Education & Teaching
Durham

AI generated summary

You must assist in dermatology procedures, maintain a sterile environment, support surgical staff, perform treatments, document accurately, ensure patient comfort, and comply with protocols and infection control.
You will assist in dermatology procedures, maintain a sterile environment, support surgical staff, ensure patient comfort, handle documentation, and promote infection control while adhering to protocols.

Requirements

Work within the Dermatology Service and the multi-disciplinary team to provide care to patients presenting with Dermatological conditions which require treatment or surgical procedures.
Prepare a procedure/theatre room for surgery ensuring that the environment is clean.
Act as an assistant in the theatre environment maintaining a sterile field for the procedures.
Undertake the scrub role in the procedure room in line with protocols.
Support the surgical practitioner in simple excisions by holding the skin hook that the Surgical Practitioner has already placed in position and hands to the HCA to maintain tension.
Cutting superficial sutures under the direction of the Surgical Practitioner.
Apply digital pressure as directed by the Surgical Practitioner to assist with keeping the surgical site dry /blood free.
To work within agreed protocols for all aspects of clinical practice.
To follow plans of care developed by the medical or specialised nurse team.
Ensure patient comfort throughout the procedure to reduce the patients anxiety and provide reassurance.
Communicate effectively within the Dermatology team and the patient/user and relatives.
Provide support to patients acting as patient advocate and chaperone as necessary.
Escalate when appropriate to senior nursing team any patient safety concerns, perceived risks or untoward incidents without delay to support a safe environment for visitors and staff in accordance with Trust policy.
Undertake iontophoresis treatments on patients referred and with a clear treatment plan.
Be proficient in vena puncture.
Follow a treatment plan devised by the doctor or specialist nurse to remove stitches and staples.
Follow a treatment plan for simple dressings of surgical wounds following assessment by a suitably trained qualified nurse or doctor.
Document and complete appropriate records for patients, clearly and accurately and in a timely manner.
Develop a link role within the department and cascade this knowledge to colleagues.
Lead by example and inspire others acting as a role model.
Order and carry out stock control of items liable to expire to ensure optimum safety.
Friendly, polite telephone manner being aware of the need for confidentiality and liaising with a Registered Nurse / Health Care professional at all times.
Ensure the patient is prepared for safe and effective transfer/discharge.
Attend study days and conferences for people with dermatological conditions relevant to the role and grade.
Maintain competency in skills in line with agreed protocols.
Assist qualified staff in audits as required.
Follow appropriate policies and procedures and comment on developments.
Provide advice to and demonstrate work activities to new and/or less experienced staff.
Any other duties commensurate with Band.
To provide a high standard of professional conduct and specialist expertise at all times.
Work within scope of practice in line with agreed protocols.
Comply with infection control policies and contribute to the departmental infection control audit.
Commit to delivering the best care at all times.
Providing cover for colleagues across the Trust as necessary and at the demands of the service.
Thrive to develop themselves and their colleagues and participate in an annual appraisal.

Responsibilities

Work within the Dermatology Service and the multi-disciplinary team to provide care to patients presenting with Dermatological conditions which require treatment or surgical procedures.
Prepare a procedure/theatre room for surgery ensuring that the environment is clean.
Act as an assistant in the theatre environment maintaining a sterile field for the procedures.
Undertake the scrub role in the procedure room in line with protocols
Support the surgical practitioner in simple excisions by holding the skin hook that the Surgical Practitioner has already placed in position and hands to the HCA to maintain tension
Cutting superficial sutures under the direction of the Surgical Practitioner
Apply digital pressure as directed by the Surgical Practitioner to assist with keeping the surgical site dry /blood free
To work within agreed protocols for all aspects of clinical practice.
To follow plans of care developed by the medical or specialised nurse team.
Ensure patient comfort throughout the procedure to reduce the patients anxiety and provide reassurance.
Communicate effectively within the Dermatology team and the patient/user and relatives
Provide support to patients acting as patient advocate and chaperone as necessary
Escalate when appropriate to senior nursing team any patient safety concerns, perceived risks or untoward incidents without delay to support a safe environment for visitors and staff in accordance with Trust policy
Undertake iontophoresis treatments on patients referred and with a clear treatment plan.
Be proficient in vena puncture
Follow a treatment plan devised by the doctor or specialist nurse to remove stitches and staples
Follow a treatment plan for simple dressings of surgical wounds following assessment by a suitably trained qualified nurse or doctor.
Document and complete appropriate records for patients, clearly and accurately and in a timely manner.
Develop a link role within the department and cascade this knowledge to colleagues.
Lead by example and inspire others acting as a role model.
Order and carry out stock control of items liable to expire to ensure optimum safety.
Friendly, polite telephone manner being aware of the need for confidentiality and liaising with a Registered Nurse / Health Care professional at all times.
Ensure the patient is prepared for safe and effective transfer/discharge.
Attend study days and conferences for people with dermatological conditions relevant to the role and grade.
Maintain competency in skills in line with agreed protocols
Assist qualified staff in audits as required
Follow appropriate policies and procedures and comment on developments.
Provide advice to and demonstrate work activities to new and/or less experienced staff.
Any other duties commensurate with Band.
To provide a high standard of professional conduct and specialist expertise at all times
Work within scope of practice in line with agreed protocols
Comply with infection control policies and contribute to the departmental infection control audit
Commit to delivering the best care at all times.
Providing cover for colleagues across the Trust as necessary and at the demands of the service
Thrive to develop themselves and their colleagues and participate in an annual appraisal.

FAQs

What are the main responsibilities of a Healthcare Assistant in the Dermatology Service?

The main responsibilities include preparing procedure/theatre rooms, assisting in surgical procedures while maintaining a sterile field, supporting surgical practitioners during simple excisions, undertaking iontophoresis treatments, and providing patient comfort and reassurance throughout procedures.

Is experience in theatre environments required for this position?

While prior experience is beneficial, the role emphasizes adherence to protocols and teamwork in the theatre environment. Training and guidance will be provided.

Will the Healthcare Assistant interact with patients and their families?

Yes, effective communication with patients, their families, and the Dermatology team is essential, including acting as a patient advocate and providing reassurance.

What level of medical procedures will a Healthcare Assistant be involved with?

The Healthcare Assistant will be involved in supporting procedures such as simple excisions, dressing changes, and stitch removals under the direction of qualified medical staff.

Is it necessary to attend continuing education or training sessions?

Yes, attending study days and conferences relevant to dermatological conditions is expected to maintain and enhance competencies in the role.

What kind of support can a Healthcare Assistant provide to patients during procedures?

The Healthcare Assistant can provide emotional support, reassurance, and practical assistance to help keep patients comfortable and reduce their anxiety throughout the procedure.

Are there opportunities for career development within this role?

Yes, the role encourages personal and professional development, including leading by example, developing link roles, and participating in annual appraisals.

What qualifications or skills are necessary for this position?

Proficiency in venipuncture, the ability to follow treatment plans, and demonstrated skills in infection control policies are important. Experience or training in a healthcare setting is also beneficial.

How does the Healthcare Assistant contribute to infection control measures?

The Healthcare Assistant must comply with infection control policies and actively contribute to departmental infection control audits.

Will the Healthcare Assistant have responsibilities related to inventory management?

Yes, the Healthcare Assistant is responsible for stock control of items that may expire, ensuring safety and availability for procedures.

County Durham & Darlington NHS Foundation Trust

#TeamCDDFT

Science & Healthcare

Industry

5001-10,000

Employees

2001

Founded Year

Mission & Purpose

University Hospital of North Durham, part of the County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust, provides a range of healthcare services, including emergency care, surgical treatments, and specialist services. Its mission is to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care while promoting health and well-being in the community. The hospital focuses on offering safe, effective, and compassionate care to meet the diverse needs of its patients.