Job Title: Healthcare Assistant (HCA) – Urgent Care Centres Location: Birmingham, Walsall, Dudley, Telford, Shrewsbury, Sandwell Job Type: Locum Rates of pay: £12 to £16 PAYE or Umbrella Shifts Available:
Monday to Sunday: Various shifts available (9am to 3pm, 3pm to 9pm, 9am to 9pm)
Flexibility to work additional hours within our Urgent Care and Primary Care divisions.
Job Summary: We are currently seeking a skilled and compassionate Healthcare Assistant (HCA) to join our Urgent Care Services. The successful candidate will play a vital role in supporting the clinical team to deliver high-quality care to service users, assisting in their initial assessment and ensuring their healthcare needs are met. This is an excellent opportunity for those seeking flexibility and wanting to make a meaningful difference in urgent care settings. Key Responsibilities: As an HCA, your key responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:
Clinical Responsibilities:
Assisting in the streaming and initial assessment of service users in the Urgent Care Centre.
Conducting basic observations including blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, respiratory rate, capillary refill, and saturations.
Taking medical histories and checking medication and allergy status.
Performing urine dipstick tests, pregnancy tests, and other basic clinical tasks as required.
Following protocols to help determine appropriate clinical pathways using early warning scores.
Escalating to senior clinicians if any service user becomes acutely unwell during assessment.
Communication:
Communicate effectively with patients, their carers, and clinical team members.
Recognise and respond appropriately to any need for alternative communication methods.
Quality Assurance:
Strive to maintain high standards within the service, reporting any concerns regarding quality or risks.
Take accountability for your actions, and contribute to the effectiveness of the team by reflecting on activities and suggesting improvements.
Work collaboratively with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive patient care.
Personal and People Development:
Take responsibility for your personal development, participating in training and supervision as required.
Maintain a record of your professional development.
Recognise the roles and responsibilities of other team members.
Health, Safety, and Security:
Follow security procedures and maintain a safe working environment by adhering to infection control protocols.
Ensure the safe storage and disposal of medical supplies, drugs, and vaccines.
Report and manage health risks, including handling sharps injuries and cleaning up spillages.
Service Improvement:
Participate in audits and service development projects as required.
Assist in maintaining patient education materials and health promotion materials in the waiting area.
Information Management:
Accurately record patient information and activities in a timely manner using the appropriate systems.
Maintain confidentiality and adhere to data protection guidelines.
Qualifications and Experience:
NVQ Level 3 in Health and Social Care (or equivalent).
Care Certificate (or equivalent).
Previous experience working in an emergency department, walk-in centre, or primary care setting is preferred.
Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with people at all levels.
Ability to work under pressure and manage time efficiently.
Basic knowledge of health and safety and infection control standards.
