The role of a Healthcare Assistant

Healthcare Assistants (HCAs) work within a variety of NHS Hospital and community settings. Their specific duties depend on the area they work in however; in the next paragraph I will be outlining the general duties for you. The average rate of pay for a Healthcare Assistant is around £8.21 to £14 per hour.

The daily duties of a HCA

• Observing, monitoring and recording patient’s conditions by taking temperatures, pulse, respirations and weight.
• Communicating with patients, their relatives/loved ones and carers.
• Assisting with clinical duties.
• Personal care including infection prevention and control, food and personal hygiene.
• Overall reassurance, comfort and safety.
• Checking and ordering supplies.

Qualifications to be a HCA

Although there are no set entry requirements you need to become a HCA – some employers may ask if you have:

• Grade A-C in English and Maths
• Healthcare qualification such as a BTEC or an NVQ in a Healthcare field
• Certain amount of experience in a Healthcare setting

Skills you’ll need to be a HCA

• A caring nature
• An approachable nature
• An open mind
• Interpersonal skills
• Good communication skills
• Good listening skills
• Respect for client confidentiality
• Flexibility
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Ability to remain calm and patient in tough situations
• Good organisational skills

Typical HCA interview questions

• What made you chose this area of Healthcare over others?
• Why do you think it’s essential to keep records?
• Give me an example of a time when you’ve had to use your initiative
• How would you care for the families of patients who are particularly distressed?
• Are you comfortable working anti-social hours?
• Can you describe a stressful experience you’ve had and explain how you coped with it?
• Can you describe what you think a HCA does and what type of people or groups you could possibly work with?