Job summary
ST ANDREWS WARD IS RE-LOACTING TO YEOVIL IN SPRING 2024
The purpose of this role is to provide care and support to acutely mentally unwell people of working age.
You will be working within an inpatient unit, are required to work in support of the qualified nurses and other health care professionals and carry out assigned tasks involving direct care in support of and supervised by registered nurses/ occupational therapist.
You will be involved in the delivery and coordination of ward activities.
The Job involves listening and talking to patients, carers and colleagues as well as external stakeholders; observing patients behaviour providing close observation to ensure patient safety; encouraging patients with eating and drinking and personal hygiene; involving patients in diversional activities; escorting patients out of the unit; dealing with anger and aggression through explanation, negotiation and de-escalation; assisting in the management of violent episodes and encouraging patient to adhere to their care and treatment plans which include accepting medication.
You will work over a 24 hour rotational shift pattern.
Main duties of the job
This role includes listening and talking to patients, relatives & carers, observing patients behaviour, providing close observation to ensure patient safety (one to one), encouraging them with eating, drinking & personal hygiene.Involving them in diversional activities including escorting patients out of the unit, dealing with anger (explanations, negotiation and de-escalation), assisting in the management of violent episodes & helping in the administration of medication.Communicating within the immediate clinical team, with the unit's medical staff, and liaising with a wide range of professionals involved in care.
About us
As an organisation, the NHS offers a wide range of benefits including flexible working, pension contributions, market leading annual leave allowance, career progression and regular conversations, not to mention our Blue Light Card and NHS exclusive discounts.
The benefits of working in Somerset include the idyllic countryside, with our areas of outstanding beauty and stunning coastlines. You will get to enjoy these perks whilst still only being a stone's throw away from bustling city centres like Bristol, Bath and Exeter and only two hours away from London.
There are excellent educational facilities in the area and, when compared to other regions, house prices are reasonable. You will experience the best of both in Somerset, the countryside and the cosmopolitan - there is truly something for everyone!
Applications are welcomed fromallaspects of society, however we particularly welcome applications from BAME communities, people with disabilities, LGBT+ people and younger people who are under-represented in Somerset.
Job description
Job responsibilities
KEY RESPONSIBILITIESThe Health Care Assistant/Activity Support Worker is a member of the clinical team and plays a contributory role in facilitating the health and well-being of the patients which may include:1.Recognising the individuality of the patient and help to meet his or her social, emotional and intellectual needs.2.Will be involved in the delivery and coordination of ward activities3.Ensuring that basic physical needs are met, such as adequate diet, hygiene, warmth, comfort and safety.4.Assisting in planned treatments in accordance with the multi-disciplinary team approach.5.Providing and receiving routine information to assist in undertaking own job.Health Care and Activity duties required to be undertaken under the direction and/or supervision of a qualified nurse/Occupational Therapist in line with care plans.1. Performing procedures only after instruction.2.Developing communication skills with patients/carers and relatives.3.Maintaining open communication with staff and other professionals.4. Encouraging and assisting patients to participate in group and individual therapeutic activities.5.Accompanying patients on therapeutic activities both on and off the unit.6.Assisting in the promotion of comfort and hygiene.7.Maintaining patient privacy, by use of appropriate available aids, e.g. screens, curtains etc.8.Assisting in the running of groups and activities.9.Assisting new staff by example and experience.10.Assist with management of challenging behaviour (verbal and physical aggression) under supervision from trained member of staff. This may require the restraint of patients once suitably trained.11.Work as co-key worker and participate in reviewing and carrying out planned programmes of care.12.Assist in the administration of medication and treatments.13.Carry out observations in accordance with Trust Policy frequent requirement for concentration.GENERAL DUTIES1. Taking part in ward/team meetings and discussions.2.Assisting in the admission and transfer of patients.3.Receiving visitors.4.Recording of information on charts and records.5.Collection of specimens to be sent to pathology.6. Input of data on RIO (electronic patient records system).7.Taking, recording and reporting telephone messages.8.Reporting of accidents, incidents and complaints involving self/staff/patients/visitors.9.Helping to maintain cleanliness and tidiness of the ward (including equipment).10.Assisting in the monitoring of patients nutritional needs.11.Assist patients, where necessary, with all personal care needs and assist trained staff in assessing patients level of functioning.12.Escorting patients when directed by the person in charge.13.Manual handling of patients, where necessary, when indicated in the care plan.14.Direct contact with bodily fluids.15. Adhering to infection control standards.16.Assist in maintaining the safety and security of the environment.17. To comply with reasonable requests from senior members of staff.18.Being involved as a support worker in the delivery of a ward therapeutic schedule; aiding the delivery of therapeutic groups and offering time in positive activity.PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITIES1. Presenting punctually for duty in a professional manner, correctly dressed, according to Trust Policy.2.Maintaining good relationships with colleagues, patients, their relatives and the general public.3.Reporting complaints or unusual occurrences to the Nurse in Charge immediately.4.Recognising statutory obligations under the Mental Health Act 1983.5.Undertake mandatory training.6.Participate in supervision and appraisal as required.SPECIAL RESPONSIBILITIES1. Maintaining confidentiality of information.2.Being aware of Trust Policies and local protocols and keeping up-to-date with changes.3.Having full knowledge of fire precautions and regulations, attending lectures.4.Commencing First Aid procedures, where training has been given.5.Commencing de-escalation and restraint procedures in the event of violent incidents.6.Attending lectures or study days as required.7.Carrying out any duties as may be delegated by the Nurse in Charge, in accordance with training given.8.To adhere to, and participate in, all appropriate Quality Assurance local and national programmes.9. There may be occasions where you are required to support other inpatient environments within the Trust
Job description
Job responsibilities
KEY RESPONSIBILITIESThe Health Care Assistant/Activity Support Worker is a member of the clinical team and plays a contributory role in facilitating the health and well-being of the patients which may include:1.Recognising the individuality of the patient and help to meet his or her social, emotional and intellectual needs.2.Will be involved in the delivery and coordination of ward activities3.Ensuring that basic physical needs are met, such as adequate diet, hygiene, warmth, comfort and safety.4.Assisting in planned treatments in accordance with the multi-disciplinary team approach.5.Providing and receiving routine information to assist in undertaking own job.Health Care and Activity duties required to be undertaken under the direction and/or supervision of a qualified nurse/Occupational Therapist in line with care plans.1. Performing procedures only after instruction.2.Developing communication skills with patients/carers and relatives.3.Maintaining open communication with staff and other professionals.4. Encouraging and assisting patients to participate in group and individual therapeutic activities.5.Accompanying patients on therapeutic activities both on and off the unit.6.Assisting in the promotion of comfort and hygiene.7.Maintaining patient privacy, by use of appropriate available aids, e.g. screens, curtains etc.8.Assisting in the running of groups and activities.9.Assisting new staff by example and experience.10.Assist with management of challenging behaviour (verbal and physical aggression) under supervision from trained member of staff. This may require the restraint of patients once suitably trained.11.Work as co-key worker and participate in reviewing and carrying out planned programmes of care.12.Assist in the administration of medication and treatments.13.Carry out observations in accordance with Trust Policy frequent requirement for concentration.GENERAL DUTIES1. Taking part in ward/team meetings and discussions.2.Assisting in the admission and transfer of patients.3.Receiving visitors.4.Recording of information on charts and records.5.Collection of specimens to be sent to pathology.6. Input of data on RIO (electronic patient records system).7.Taking, recording and reporting telephone messages.8.Reporting of accidents, incidents and complaints involving self/staff/patients/visitors.9.Helping to maintain cleanliness and tidiness of the ward (including equipment).10.Assisting in the monitoring of patients nutritional needs.11.Assist patients, where necessary, with all personal care needs and assist trained staff in assessing patients level of functioning.12.Escorting patients when directed by the person in charge.13.Manual handling of patients, where necessary, when indicated in the care plan.14.Direct contact with bodily fluids.15. Adhering to infection control standards.16.Assist in maintaining the safety and security of the environment.17. To comply with reasonable requests from senior members of staff.18.Being involved as a support worker in the delivery of a ward therapeutic schedule; aiding the delivery of therapeutic groups and offering time in positive activity.PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITIES1. Presenting punctually for duty in a professional manner, correctly dressed, according to Trust Policy.2.Maintaining good relationships with colleagues, patients, their relatives and the general public.3.Reporting complaints or unusual occurrences to the Nurse in Charge immediately.4.Recognising statutory obligations under the Mental Health Act 1983.5.Undertake mandatory training.6.Participate in supervision and appraisal as required.SPECIAL RESPONSIBILITIES1. Maintaining confidentiality of information.2.Being aware of Trust Policies and local protocols and keeping up-to-date with changes.3.Having full knowledge of fire precautions and regulations, attending lectures.4.Commencing First Aid procedures, where training has been given.5.Commencing de-escalation and restraint procedures in the event of violent incidents.6.Attending lectures or study days as required.7.Carrying out any duties as may be delegated by the Nurse in Charge, in accordance with training given.8.To adhere to, and participate in, all appropriate Quality Assurance local and national programmes.9. There may be occasions where you are required to support other inpatient environments within the Trust
Person Specification
essential and desirable
Essential
- Listening and Learning
- Willing to work towards relevant training and qualifications
- Ability to think quickly and deal with situations in a calm and sensible manner
- Present in a professional manner
- Team working
- Compassionate - Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate effectively with patients, carers and relatives remaining sensitive and empathetic.
- patient focussed approach
- Good observation skills
- Listens to others' views respecting and valuing individual patient needs.
Desirable
- Basic understanding of risk
- Previous experience of working in mental health services.
- Experience of working with people e.g. in a caring situation, dealing with the general public
Person Specification
essential and desirable
Essential
- Listening and Learning
- Willing to work towards relevant training and qualifications
- Ability to think quickly and deal with situations in a calm and sensible manner
- Present in a professional manner
- Team working
- Compassionate - Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate effectively with patients, carers and relatives remaining sensitive and empathetic.
- patient focussed approach
- Good observation skills
- Listens to others' views respecting and valuing individual patient needs.
Desirable
- Basic understanding of risk
- Previous experience of working in mental health services.
- Experience of working with people e.g. in a caring situation, dealing with the general public
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
