Job Description:
* This role involves providing support to the surgical team in the care and management of patients undergoing surgical intervention and procedural sedation.
* The Perioperative Health Care Assistant will assist in the preparation and checking of theatre equipment as per list and activity.
* They will work as a 2nd assistant to the surgeon, assisting with surgical intervention as directed.
* The successful candidate will also be responsible for completing check lists to ensure equipment and instrumentation is available and fit for purpose.
* Stock management is an important part of this role, including replenishing sterile stocks and ensuring stock rotation.
* The position requires the ability to assist with the safe transfer of patients within the peri-operative setting, including inter departmental transfers.
* Assisting in the positioning of patients and the use of appropriate pressure relieving aids is also an essential aspect of this role.
* The Perioperative Health Care Assistant will be responsible for receiving specimens from the surgical/anaesthetic team, ensuring correct labeling, packaging and requisition prior to safe transport to the specimen area.
* Other duties include preparing and opening sterile packs, instrument sets, sundries and pouring lotions, as well as positioning relevant theatre equipment.
* They will also assist with the gowning and gloving of theatre and medical staff, and ensure items for disposal are correctly bagged/binned and ready for collection as per waste disposal policy.
* Cleaning equipment surfaces is also a key responsibility, ensuring solutions used conform to infection control policies.
* The successful candidate must report any faults of fabric, furniture or equipment, and undertake any other duties within the scope of the post as agreed with the theatre manager.
Endoscopy Support:
* The Perioperative Health Care Assistant will provide support to the RGN in the delivery of effective and efficient patient care in endoscopy.
* They will understand how information is obtained, transmitted and stored during delivery of the care service in endoscopy.
* Preparation of the endoscopy area, including the endoscopy wash room, is an important part of this role.
* The successful candidate will ensure all endoscopes and supporting equipment is available and fit for purpose.
* Consumables must also be available, and the candidate will assist in the positioning of patients and the use of appropriate pressure relieving aids.
* Familiarity with the pre cleaning stage, leak testing, manual cleaning, storage and transportation of endoscopes is essential.
Requirements:
* A relevant FETAC/QQI Level 5 qualification is required.
* At least one year's experience in a customer focused environment within the healthcare sector is essential.
* Previous experience as a Health Care Assistant working within the Peri-operative setting is preferred.
* Strong organisational and problem solving skills are necessary, as well as strong communication skills.
What We Offer:
* A supportive and collaborative team environment
* Ongoing training and development opportunities
* The chance to make a real difference in the lives of our patients