Job Title: Health Care Assistant (HCA) Location: North Yorkshire (various hospital wards and community settings) Reports to: Registered Nurse / Ward Sister / Line Manager Band: Band 2–3 (depending on experience) Hours: Full-time / Part-time / Shift work including weekends and nights Job Summary The Health Care Assistant (HCA) provides compassionate, high-quality care and support to patients under the supervision of registered nurses and other healthcare professionals. The role involves assisting patients with personal care, maintaining dignity, supporting clinical tasks, and contributing to a safe and caring environment within the ward or community setting. Key Roles and Responsibilities Patient Care and Support * Assist patients with personal care needs such as washing, dressing, oral hygiene, toileting, and mobility. * Support patients with eating and drinking, ensuring dietary needs and fluid balance are monitored and documented accurately. * Promote independence, dignity, privacy, and respect at all times. * Assist in repositioning and transferring patients safely using appropriate moving and handling techniques and equipment. * Monitor and record patients’ observations (e.g., temperature, pulse, respiration, blood pressure, oxygen saturation) and report any changes to the registered nurse. Clinical Support * Assist in clinical procedures as directed by the registered nurse or clinician, ensuring infection prevention and control standards are maintained. * Record and report information accurately in patients’ notes and electronic systems in line with local and Trust policies. * Support the maintenance and cleaning of clinical equipment. * Ensure that patient areas are kept tidy, clean, and safe in accordance with infection control and health and safety guidelines. Communication and Teamwork * Communicate effectively and compassionately with patients, relatives, and the multidisciplinary team. * Participate in handovers and team meetings, contributing to the continuity of patient care. * Escalate any concerns regarding patient well-being, safety, or changes in condition to a registered nurse or senior colleague promptly. Administration and Record Keeping * Complete accurate and timely documentation of care delivered, fluid balance charts, and other relevant records. * Maintain confidentiality in line with Trust and NHS policies. * Support the admission, transfer, and discharge process of patients. Professional Development * Participate in induction, mandatory, and ongoing training to maintain competence and professional growth. * Work in accordance with the Trust’s values, policies, and procedures. * Reflect on practice and seek feedback to improve the quality of care provided. Health, Safety, and Wellbeing * Adhere to infection prevention and control procedures at all times. * Report any incidents, near misses, or equipment faults in accordance with Trust policies. * Contribute to maintaining a safe working environment for patients, staff, and visitors. Person Specification Values You will be expected to uphold the core values, including: * Compassion – providing care with kindness and respect. * Commitment to quality – striving for excellence in all aspects of care. * Working together – collaborating effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team. * Everyone counts – treating all patients and colleagues with fairness and respect