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JCL Recruitment Ltd

Posted

13 hours ago

description

Palliative Care Assistant (PCA)

Key Responsibilities:

1. *Direct Patient Care*:

- Assist patients with activities of daily living (ADLs), including bathing, dressing, grooming, feeding, and toileting.

- Monitor and record patients’ vital signs (e.g., temperature, pulse, respiration, and blood pressure).

- Help patients with mobility, including transferring them from beds to wheelchairs and aiding in exercises as prescribed by the healthcare team.

2. *Medical Support*:

- Assist in administering medications as prescribed, under the supervision of a nurse or physician.

- Apply simple wound dressings and assist in other minor medical procedures as directed.

- Observe and report any changes in patients’ condition to the nursing staff or physician promptly.

3. *Emotional and Psychological Support*:

- Provide companionship and engage in meaningful conversation to support patients’ emotional well-being.

- Listen to patients' and families’ concerns, providing reassurance and comfort.

- Facilitate communication between patients, families, and healthcare professionals to ensure understanding and support.

4. *Household Assistance*:

- Perform light housekeeping tasks to maintain a safe and clean environment for the patient.

- Prepare and serve meals that meet the nutritional needs and preferences of patients.

- Assist with errands and other household duties as needed.

5. *Documentation and Communication*:

- Maintain accurate and up-to-date patient records, documenting care provided and observations made.

- Communicate effectively with the healthcare team to ensure coordinated and continuous care.

- Participate in care planning meetings and contribute to the development of individualized care plans.

Skills and Qualifications:

- *Education*: High school diploma or equivalent; additional training or certification in palliative care or healthcare assistance is advantageous.

- *Certifications*: CPR and First Aid certification are required; additional certification in palliative care is preferred.

- *Experience*: Previous experience in a caregiving or healthcare role, particularly in palliative or hospice care, is highly desirable.

- *Skills*:

- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

- Strong empathy, patience, and emotional resilience.

- Ability to follow detailed care plans and instructions.

- Physical stamina to assist with patient mobility and perform physical tasks.

- Attention to detail and organizational skills.

Work Environment:

- *Settings*: PCAs work in various settings including patients’ homes, hospices, hospitals, and long-term care facilities.

- *Physical Demands*: The role involves physical tasks such as lifting and moving patients, standing for extended periods, and performing repetitive tasks.

- *Emotional Demands*: Working in palliative care requires a high degree of emotional resilience due to the nature of end-of-life care.

Career Progression:

- With experience and additional training, PCAs can advance to roles such as senior care assistants, nursing assistants, or pursue further education to become registered nurses or licensed practical nurses specializing in palliative care.

This job description outlines the essential responsibilities and qualifications for a palliative care assistant, highlighting the importance of compassionate care and effective communication in providing end-of-life support.

£17 per hour

PLEASE SEND IN YOUR CV/RESUME OR CONTACT DETAILS

location

London