Healthcare assistants play a vital role in the care of patients. Working under the direction of more senior healthcare professionals, they take care of the day-to-day needs of patients by providing help with personal care, meals and mobility. They also carry out a range of housekeeping duties, as well as performing basic medical checks, such as taking a patient’s temperature, pulse and respiration rate
The attitude of a healthcare assistant is of far more importance than any formal qualifications. Suitable candidates for the role are friendly, caring and sensitive individuals, who are able to offer social stimulation as well as care to the patients they tend. The job is a physical one and often requires manual handling, so a good level of fitness is also required
Healthcare assistants usually work a shift or rota system, which may include nights, weekends and bank holidays. All workers must have a CRB check and it is usually necessary to have some prior experience of care work, although on-the-job training is available. Salaries are in the region of £13,600 to £16,700 a year, with the potential of earning up to £18,500.