Band 3 Generic Therapy Assistant/ Administrator

Job description

Job responsibilities

SPECIFIC DUTIES

CLINICAL/ADMINISTRATION

To work without direct supervision, but under the overall direction of qualified staff in the performance of specific tasks for an individual or group, as part of their treatment and rehabilitation programmes. Duties will include:

Implementation and progression of treatment plans delegated by qualified staff or according to protocol.

Assisting the therapists with patients in all clinical areas within the hospital, working alongside them, or independently.

Carrying own caseload of non-complex patients, recognising limits of clinical autonomy and ability, seeking assistance as required.

To be able to run and lead a range of classes including post op hip and knee classes, Hydrotherapy Class as appropriate to role, and be able to work alongside other team members to co-run other outpatient classes.

Assessing and providing mobility aids and functional equipment as appropriate, ensuring that the individual aids are safe to use, and the patients are competent in their use of them.

Assisting patients with functional activities.

Contributing to the decision- making around treatment, discharge planning and long-term management of individual patients as an integral member of the multidisciplinary team.

Maintaining neat, accurate computer records, in line with Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, The Royal College of Occupational Therapists and Trust policies and guidelines.

Being aware at all times of the needs of patients during illness or disability and to promote and encourage independence and restoration of function.

Undertaking appropriate provision of aids and instruction as to their safe, correct use.

Undertaking, as first contact, basic initial physiotherapy/occupational therapy assessment with non-complex patients, after screening, using medical notes, and appropriate liaison with nursing or medical staff, reporting findings to qualified therapy staff.

Assisting therapists in leading group activities and in Orthopaedic Joint replacement school as required.

Participating in the collection of data and audit information as requested.

Representing the Physiotherapy Team at multi-disciplinary team meetings, when necessary, communicating accurate information to other members of the team clearly and effectively.

Being responsible for the preparation and maintenance of equipment and the safe delivery of therapy programmes. This will involve moving and handling of patients, equipment, wheelchairs, and furniture.

Being responsible for teaching techniques to patients and carers, within scope of practice. This may be planned or spontaneous, and include advice, instructions to relatives, carers, or other health professionals. This will promote understanding of the aims of physiotherapy to ensure a consistent approach to patient care and treatments.

The post-holder will be expected to kneel, sit on heels, move inert limbs, and support patients whilst walking or transferring.

To be able to monitor stock levels and order replacement stock / equipment when required.

To assist supervision of work experience students when required.

To monitor and manage referrals received by the NHS electronic referral system (ERS)

To organise/ book transport and interpreters for patients as required.

To deal with initial complaints from patients regarding the waiting list asking for assistance from the manager as required.

Communication

To use a range of verbal and non- verbal communication tools to promote effective communication with patients, to initiate and progress rehabilitation and treatment programmes, and to ensure an understanding of their condition/problem so that patients are supported in self-management of their condition. Communication of patient progress and forward planning may be discussed with family members and carers where appropriate.

The communication skills of persuasion, motivation, reassurance, explanation and gaining informed consent will be used with a wide variety of patients. Issues may include bereavement, grieving, loss of independence and prognosis, and must be dealt with empathetically and confidentially. Barriers to effective communication will regularly be evident including cognitive impairment, expressive and receptive communication difficulties, embarrassment, anxiety, pain, fear, and visual/hearing impairment. When a barrier is identified, strategies to overcome it will be put into place.

To maintain patient privacy, dignity, and confidentiality at all times.

To attend and participate in therapy staff meetings as appropriate.

To communicate routine information effectively and appropriately to patients and carers. Communication skills of persuasion, motivation and explanation are utilised.

To maintain accurate treatment records in line with legal requirements.

To communicate effectively with the therapists, and other members of the multi-disciplinary team, regarding changes in the patients condition, or any other information needed, in a timely manner.

To comply with processes for electronic collection of data and activity.

Education

To attend organised training sessions, including all mandatory Trust training, and any in-service training arranged by therapy staff as appropriate.

To participate in the appraisal system and Personal Development Programme, including achievement of competencies and undertaking regular supervision.

To undertake peer supervision with other therapy technicians and assistant staff, and participate in, or lead, in-service training for this peer group as required.

To maintain a personal portfolio which demonstrates personal development and shows evidence of reflective practice.

To assist with the clinical education of therapy students on placement, as appropriate.

To assist in the induction and training of other members of staff, and new team members as appropriate.

To develop a high standard of skills and knowledge, beyond that of a therapy assistant. These skills and knowledge will be gained through specific advanced training, experience or formal qualifications, e.g. NVQ.

To undertake if needed additional training, possibly to NVQ level, in skills necessary to fulfil requirements of patient pathways.

To complete the national rescue test award for swimming teachers and coaches every 2 years to be able to assist / run hydrotherapy sessions as required.

Management

To be aware of the Health and Safety aspects of work and implement any policies which may be required to improve the safety of the work area, including the prompt recording, and reporting of accidents/incidents to senior staff, and ensuring that equipment used is safe.

To comply with organisational and departmental policies and procedures, and to be involved in reviewing and updating as appropriate.

To be aware of and comply with Trust policies.

Audit

To collect data and statistics as directed, on an on-going daily basis.

To participate in the evaluation of clinical and current practices through audit and critical appraisal.

Person Specification

Education/Qualifications

Essential

• Educated to GCSE Level

Desirable

• Evidence of study towards, or attainment of, relevant NVQ Level 3

Experience

Essential

• Administrative/ clerical experience

Desirable

• Previous experience of work in healthcare or social service setting

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.

Certificate of Sponsorship

Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For further information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website (Opens in a new tab).

From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants, applying for entry clearance into the UK, have had to present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years old) are also subject to this requirement. Guidance can be found here Criminal records checks for overseas applicants (Opens in a new tab).

Employer details

Employer name

The Hillingdon Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

Address

Mount Vernon Hospital

Rickmansworth Road

Northwood

HA6 2RN

Employer's website

https://www.thh.nhs.uk/index.php (Opens in a new tab)