APPLY: Patient Care Assistant SAVE St John of God Health Care

Patient Care Assistant SAVE St John of God Health Care

The Rehabilitation Unit stands as a cornerstone service, playing a crucial role in aiding our patients’ journey back to health and independence following injury, illness, or surgical procedures. As a Patient Care Assistant (PCA), you are an essential member of a diverse team, dedicated to providing exceptional care to our patients. Your responsibilities encompass a range of tasks, including patient transportation, aiding the nursing/midwifery team, and maintaining a clean and organized patient care environment.

The PCA operates under the guidance and supervision of a Registered Nurse/Midwife, ensuring that patient care standards are met with precision and compassion. Your role is multifaceted, encompassing aspects of patient mobility, transfers, cleanliness, and assistance with daily activities such as eating and drinking. Here is an expanded paraphrase of the provided text:

The Role of the Patient Care Assistant The primary responsibility of a Patient Care Assistant is to ensure the well being and comfort of patients under their care. This includes:

Patient Transport

• Safely transporting patients throughout the hospital premises using appropriate equipment, including beds and wheelchairs.
• Adhering to recommended safety practices during patient transport.

Mobility and Positioning Assistance

• Assisting patients with mobility, transfers, and positioning as directed by healthcare professionals.
• Utilizing manual handling equipment like hoists and slide sheets in compliance with occupational safety standards.

Maintenance of Patient Environment

• Keeping patient care areas tidy and organized.
• Removing clinical equipment and supplies from discharge rooms as necessary.
• Cleaning and restocking discharge beds, trolleys, cubicles, and bathrooms in designated areas.

Support with Daily Activities

• Preparing meal tables and ensuring patients are properly positioned for eating and drinking.
• Providing assistance with feeding if required, such as cutting up food.
• Responding to patient call bells and telephone calls promptly.
• Making beds and maintaining cleanliness in patient surroundings.

Qualifications and Skills Required

To excel in this role, candidates should possess the following qualifications and skills:

• Certificate III in Health Services Assistant or equivalent, or relevant work experience demonstrating the necessary competencies.
• Knowledge of basic cleanliness and hygiene standards.
• Proficiency in manual handling principles and food handling skills, including hygiene standards.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively within a team and independently.
• Strong organizational skills with the capacity to prioritize tasks and follow instructions from healthcare professionals.
• Commitment to delivering high quality patient care in alignment with organizational values and mission.

Benefits and Opportunities Joining our team as a Patient Care Assistant offers numerous benefits and opportunities, including:

• Competitive salary range from $58,110 to $60,862 pro rata for part time positions, complemented by 11% superannuation.
• Permanent part time position with 70 hours per fortnight.
• Discounts on hospital services and private health insurance.
• Salary packaging options up to $18,550, covering expenses like mortgage, rent, meal entertainment, holiday accommodation, and more.
• Free on-site parking for convenience.
• Access to fitness and well being benefits through Fitness Passport.
• Professional development opportunities to enhance your skills and career growth.
• A supportive and inclusive work culture promoting work life balance through flexible work options and well being programs.

For further inquiries or to express interest in this opportunity, please contact Nicolette Gasper, Nurse Manager, at (08) 9462 4197. The closing date for applications is 24/04/2024.

Diversity and Inclusion St John of God Health Care values diversity and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and people with disabilities. We are dedicated to creating a safe environment for children and vulnerable individuals under our care, actively taking measures to prevent abuse and ensure their protection.

FAQ

What is the role of a Patient Care Assistant (PCA) in the Rehabilitation Unit?

The PCA plays a crucial role in assisting patients with various tasks, including patient transport within the hospital, mobility support, maintaining cleanliness in patient care areas, and providing assistance with daily activities such as eating and drinking.

What qualifications are required to become a PCA?

Candidates should ideally hold a Certificate III in Health Services Assistance or have relevant work experience demonstrating the necessary skills and competencies. Knowledge of hygiene standards, manual handling techniques, and food safety protocols is also essential.

What are the key responsibilities of a PCA regarding patient care?

PCAs are responsible for transporting patients safely, assisting with mobility and transfers, maintaining a tidy patient care environment, and providing support with activities such as meal preparation and feeding, under the supervision of registered nurses or midwives.

How does a PCA contribute to the overall patient experience in the Rehabilitation Unit?

PCAs play a vital role in ensuring that patients receive compassionate and personalized care, contributing to their comfort, well being, and sense of support during their rehabilitation journey.

What kind of training and support is provided to PCAs in your healthcare facility?

PCAs receive comprehensive training in areas such as manual handling, infection control, and communication skills. They also benefit from ongoing support and guidance from experienced healthcare professionals.

Can PCAs work flexible hours or part time shifts?

Yes, there are opportunities for PCAs to work flexible hours or part time shifts, allowing for a better work life balance and accommodating individual preferences and needs.

Are there opportunities for career advancement or further education for PCAs?

Our healthcare facility encourages professional development and offers opportunities for career advancement through additional training, courses, and certifications, allowing PCAs to progress in their careers within the healthcare sector.

How does the PCA role contribute to maintaining a safe and hygienic environment for patients?

PCAs play a crucial role in maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in patient care areas, following strict protocols for infection control, and ensuring that clinical equipment and supplies are readily available for patient use.

What benefits and perks are available to PCAs working in your healthcare facility?

PCAs enjoy competitive salaries, superannuation contributions, discounts on hospital services and private health insurance, as well as access to fitness and well being benefits, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work culture.

How can interested individuals apply for a PCA position at your healthcare facility?

Interested individuals can apply for PCA positions by submitting their applications online through our recruitment portal or by contacting our Human Resources department for further information on the application process and current job openings.