The role of the healthcare assistant is to work alongside a registered nurse in supporting them to provide quality
care to all patients at all times. You are responsible for your own actions when carrying out your duties. Report to
the nurse-in-charge at all times and the safety of the patient is paramount.
Summary of Duties/Responsibilities
To be aware of and meet the needs of the clients as specified in the care plans and as directed by the Named
Nurse/Nurse in Charge of the shift
To actively participate in and /or initiate on clients’ activities and actively encourage clients to attend
activity programmes
To liaise effectively with other professionals and significant others involved in clients care, ensuring an
integrated patterns of service delivery
To recognise and promote client individually taking into account their wishes while delivering care
To develop good working relationships and rapport with clients in the context of the Associate Nurse’s role
To monitor the mental health and social circumstances of clients to ensure that they are maintained at an
adequate level and to feedback observations to other team members
To observe and report to the nurse in Charge/Named Nurse any changes in the clients’ condition and for this
information to be entered in the clients records. Must be countersigned by a qualified nurse.
To assist in the review of clients Care Plans and to make suggestions about aspects of the clients care
planning. Contracted H.C.A.’s only
To undertake supervision and escorts of clients, as delegated by the Nurse-in-charge in accordance with
Trust Policy and Procedures
To maintain good relations with clients, carers, and visitors to the unit, referring them to the Nurse in
Charge for any queries they may have in relation to the clients’ condition
To seek assistance and guidance from senior staff when necessary
To understand, keep abreast and comply with all Trust and Local Policies and Procedures
To attend and participate in relevant business meetings and clinical meetings. Only contracted H.C.A.’s only
To report to the Nurse-in-Charge any concerns regarding unit cleanliness and general maintenance in line
with the Health and Safety requirements
To report accidents, untoward incidents and complaints to senior staff promptly
To be prepared to attend educative workshops and other courses which are available
To receive supervision in order to enhance and consolidate an understanding of the client group and to
develop nursing skills
To conduct a professional manner between yourself and client, i.e. no exchanging of telephone numbers, no
outside contact, this could lead to a dismissal form the agency
Professional
To keep abreast of developments in the care and treatment of clients with mental health problems in order to
carry out duties competently and efficiently
To participate in Training and additional in-service training with VKL.
To participate in supervision and staff appraisal
Additional Information
This job description will be revised regularly to take account of changes with VKL structure and business
plan
All duties will be carried out in accordance with VKL’s policies and procedures
VKL Nursing, Health & Social Care Training Centre is an equal opportunities employer and you will be
expected to comply with equal opportunities policy and procedures.