Job Description

Our client in Ireland is currently recruiting for Health Care Assistants on a permanent basis

Accommodation is also available for anyone relocating, right to work in Ireland is needed

Job Title: Healthcare Assistant (HCA)

Department: Care Services

Reports to: Director of Nursing / Clinical Nurse Manager / Staff Nurse

Responsible for: Providing high-quality, person-centred care and support to residents in a nursing home environment.

The Healthcare Assistant is responsible for providing compassionate, safe and respectful care to residents, supporting their physical, emotional, social and psychological wellbeing.

The postholder will work as part of the multidisciplinary care team, assisting residents with their daily living activities while promoting independence, dignity, privacy and choice.

The Healthcare Assistant must work in accordance with the nursing home's policies and procedures, HIQA standards, relevant Irish legislation and the direction of registered nursing staff.

2. Key Duties and Responsibilities

Personal Care and Resident Support

Assist residents with washing, bathing, dressing, grooming and personal hygiene.

Support residents with toileting, continence care and changing of incontinence products.

Assist residents with eating and drinking, ensuring nutritional and hydration needs are met.

Support residents with mobility, transfers and repositioning, using appropriate equipment.

Promote residents' independence, dignity, privacy and personal choice.

Provide care and support to residents living with dementia and other age-related conditions.

Health and Wellbeing

Observe residents' physical and emotional wellbeing and report any changes to the nurse in charge.

Assist with monitoring and recording observations as directed by nursing staff.

Report concerns, accidents, falls, injuries or incidents promptly.

Support residents with their individual care plans and daily routines.

Assist in maintaining residents' comfort and safety at all times.

Communication and Documentation

Communicate effectively and respectfully with residents, families and colleagues.

Maintain confidentiality and respect residents' personal information.

Complete care records accurately and promptly.

Report safeguarding concerns, suspected abuse or neglect in accordance with organisational procedures.

Participate in handovers and team meetings as required.

Environmental and Infection Control

Maintain a clean, safe and comfortable environment for residents.

Follow infection prevention and control procedures.

Use personal protective equipment (PPE) appropriately.

Follow safe moving and handling procedures.

Ensure equipment is used safely and reported if faulty.

Adhere to health and safety, fire safety and emergency procedures.

Person-Centred Care

Treat all residents with kindness, compassion and respect.

Recognise and respect residents' cultural, religious and individual preferences.

Encourage residents to participate in meaningful activities and social interaction.

Promote residents' rights, independence and freedom of choice.

Support residents at the end of life with dignity, compassion and sensitivity.

3. Qualifications and Experience

Essential requirements:

QQI Level 5 Major Award in Healthcare Support or equivalent relevant qualification or relevant experience

Good understanding of caring for older people.

Knowledge of person-centred care and residents' rights.

Good communication and interpersonal skills.

Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Ability to work independently and use initiative within the scope of the role.

Good written and spoken English.

Flexibility to work shifts, including weekends and public holidays.

Desirable requirements:

Previous experience working in a nursing home or residential care setting.

Experience supporting residents with dementia.