Key Responsibilities of Patient Care Assistants
Patient care assistants, also known as patient care technicians or nursing assistants provide basic patient care. They play a key role in health care industry responsible for taking care of a patient’s basic needs at hospital, nursing facility or any other health care facility. They carefully listen to patient’s concerns and report those to nurses or doctors. Accordingly, they have to follow their directions to ensure best care to the patients.
Patients care assistants work under the supervision of staff nurses and doctors. Essential duties and responsibilities of a patient care assistant include:
- Monitor patients and take vital signs and records this information on a medical chart
- Collect specimens for lab tests
- Assists with the collection of lab specimens
- Assists patients who need help walking or standing
- Communicates patient’s needs to nurses and doctors
- Helps with bathing and grooming tasks
- Feeds healthy diet to patients
- Aids patients in using the required medical devices and equipment for their specific condition
- Administer medications
- Assist patients with basic tasks, such as bathing, dressing, and eating; collecting specimens for lab tests
Patient care assistants also help patients turn and reposition themselves in bed as and when required. They assist them move between the bed and a wheelchair if they use one.
How to become a patient care assistant?
To become a certified patient care assistant, you have to obtain a certificate from government recognized vocational institute. Aspirants can enroll for Patient Care Assistant program comprising of theory as well as on-job-training to equip themselves with industry relevant skills. A certified professional do not have to undergo additional training and easily get jobs in hospitals, nursing facility or any other government or private healthcare facility.
Employment for patient care assistants is expected to grow 11% in coming years. There is a huge requirement for skilled professionals in India as well as abroad. Depending upon your experience and skills, you can get the supervisory positions and draw attractive salary packages.
To become a nursing assistant, you should be physically fit and have a good strength and stamina as your work includes assisting patients in various tasks and sometimes reposition them or moving them from bed to wheelchair and vice-versa. In addition, the professionals should have strong knowledge of medical terminology, diseases, and procedures. They need to use strong communication skills and kindness to address the various needs and concerns of patients.
If you’re looking for a lucrative career as a patient care assistant, this is the right time!