Health Care Assistant (HCA) job at Northampton Full Time NEW

Overview
We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Health Care Assistant (HCA) to join our team of 3 senior nurses, 1 nurse associate and a phlebotomist. This role offers an opportunity to provide high-quality care to our patients in the surgery. The ideal candidate will possess excellent communication skills, be reliable, and committed to enhancing the wellbeing of those they support. Experience in care environments is preferred, but full training will be provided for suitable applicants. The position is paid and suitable for individuals seeking a rewarding career in healthcare.

Duties

. Clinical Duties and Patient Care

The post holder will undertake clinical procedures and assessments within their level of competency and following appropriate training, including:

Diagnostic and Monitoring Procedures

• Venepuncture/phlebotomy.
• Collection, preparation, storage, and dispatch of laboratory specimens including:
• Blood samples
• Urine samples
• Swabs
• Other pathology specimens
• Late collection of bloods delivery to the lab
• Urinalysis.
• Blood pressure monitoring pressure monitors.
• Pulse, respiratory rate, and temperature recording.
• Height, weight, waist circumference, and BMI measurement.
• Blood glucose monitoring.
• Visual acuity testing.
• ECG recording and preparation for GP review.

Vaccinations and Injections

Following appropriate training and competency assessment:

• Maintenance of the vaccine cold chain.
• Recognition and initial management of anaphylaxis.
• Safe sharps disposal and injection technique.

Wound Care and Minor Procedures

• Basic wound care and dressing changes.
• Removal of sutures and clips.
• Compression bandaging for chronic leg ulcers under indirect supervision.
• Ear irrigation following training.
• Assisting GPs and nurses during:
• Minor surgery procedures
• Implant clinics
• Preparation of clinical areas and equipment before and after procedures.
• Assisting with post-operative wound care and follow-up.

2. Health Promotion and Screening

The post holder will:

• Undertake NHS Health Checks.
• Support patients in improving health and wellbeing through education and advice.
• Provide lifestyle advice relating to:
• Healthy eating
• Weight management
• Exercise
• Alcohol awareness
• Dementia awareness
• Support chronic disease and specialist clinics including:
• Diabetes clinics
• Flu clinics

3. Infection Prevention, Health & Safety

The post holder will:

• Adhere to all Infection Prevention and Control policies and procedures.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness, hygiene, and safety within clinical areas.
• Ensure safe handling, segregation, and disposal of clinical waste.
• Decontaminate clinical equipment appropriately.
• Report sharps injuries, incidents, hazards, and risks promptly.
• Monitor and record vaccine fridge temperatures daily.
• Ensure safe storage and rotation of vaccines and medications.
• Comply with COSHH, fire safety, and health and safety regulations.
• Use personal security systems and safe working practices at all times.

4. Stock Control and Equipment Management

The post holder will:

• Assist with the management of treatment room supplies and stock levels.
• Order clinical stock and medical supplies as required.
• Ensure equipment is clean, safe, calibrated, and maintained.
• Ensure clinical rooms remain appropriately stocked and prepared for use.
• Daily vaccination fridge monitoring and recording

5. Communication and Team Working

The post holder will:

• Communicate effectively and sensitively with patients, carers, and colleagues.
• Support patients to understand treatments and care plans.
• Work collaboratively within the multidisciplinary team.
• Act as a chaperone where required.
• Use appropriate communication methods to meet patient needs and overcome barriers to understanding.
• Escalate concerns appropriately to senior clinicians or management.

6. Clinical Governance and Quality

The post holder will:

• Work within agreed clinical competencies and professional boundaries.
• Maintain accurate, contemporaneous patient records.
• Ensure confidentiality is maintained at all times.
• Participate in audit, quality improvement, and clinical governance activities.
• Identify and report risks, incidents, or concerns relating to patient safety.
• Follow safeguarding procedures for children and vulnerable adults.

7. Information Governance

The post holder will:

• Maintain confidentiality relating to patients, staff, and practice information.
• Process patient information accurately using appropriate clinical coding systems.
• Follow all information governance, GDPR, and data protection requirements.

8. Personal Development

The post holder will:

• Participate in mandatory and statutory training.
• Maintain ongoing professional development and competency records.
• Attend relevant training courses, study days, and supervision sessions.
• Participate in appraisals and personal development planning.
• Support the development of the HCA role within the practice.

General Responsibilities

The post holder will:

• Work flexibly across practice sites where required.
• Undertake additional duties appropriate to the role, training, and experience.
• Promote equality, diversity, dignity, and inclusion at all times.
• Respect the rights, privacy, and beliefs of patients and colleagues.

Requirements

• Previous experience working in a GP surgery full training will be provided
• Systm1 clinical
• Good communication skills in English, both verbal and written
• IT skills for record keeping and documentation purposes
• Ability to work well within a team and independently when required
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail in following care plans
• Valid driving licence is desirable for roles involving home visits or outings
• Compassionate nature with a genuine desire to support vulnerable individuals

This role provides an excellent opportunity for those looking to develop a career in healthcare, offering valuable experience in caring for individuals across different settings.

Pay: £12.71-£13.20 per hour

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Employee assistance programme
• Free parking
• Paid training
• Sick pay
• Store discount

Work Location: In person