Health care assistants carry out many duties to ensure patients are well looked after. KERRY ANN EUSTICE finds out exactly what the role entails.

QUALIFICATIONS:

This job is hard work, challenging at times but extremely rewarding. The five Cs are key: Communication - to communicate sensitively with patients and their families and with all members of staff.

Care - to attend to and care for the patient with respect and dignity.

Compassion - being understanding of the needs and feelings of patients.

Confidentiality - to uphold and protect patient confidentiality.

Confidence - in your ability to make a difference.

EARNING POTENTIAL:

NHS Band 2: £14,996 to £17,926 per annum.

PLACE OF WORK:

Queen Mary's Sidcup NHS Trust.

HOURS:

I work full time, three long days for 37.5 hours each week. Some of my colleagues prefer five shorter days.

WHAT IS YOUR TYPICAL DAY LIKE?

A typical day starts with a handover and we are assigned patients to look after. Most of the morning is spent helping patients with their personal care and making beds, always remembering good infection control and safety practices. Some patients need more help than others and it is important to encourage independence as much as possible. I assist patients at meal times and carry out clinical observations such as blood pressure and temperature, reporting any changes immediately. Other responsibilities include recording fluid input and output, recording nutrition, collecting specimens for analysis and wound care.

I also assist with patient admissions which includes completing forms, listening to any concerns a patient may have and helping them to feel at ease.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO BECOME A HEALTH CARE ASSISTANT?

I hadn't thought of working in care before, but when I started work as a carer in the community I soon realised this was what I really enjoyed. I came to Queen Mary's two years ago as a HCA and I haven't looked back.

WHERE DO YOU WANT TO GO FROM HERE?

I have had so much support and this has given me the confidence to apply for my nurse training next year.