Housekeeper/ Assessment Unit Assistant
Job overview
To work as a part of the surgical assessment unit team to be responsible for delivering a range of activities supporting clinical staff by ensuring a well-stocked, clean and safe patient environment. Your input will assist in accurate ordering ensuring no stock is wasted.You will also support patient flow by escorting patients during transfers and prepare the area for the next patient. Your role will include regular checks and documentation of these to maintain health and safety on the ward.
Main duties of the job
To ensure equipment is cleaned, decontaminated and recorded according to makers instructions and Trust Standards.
Monitor the environment to ensure all areas are clean, clutter free and tidy.
Report any faults or damage to estates and record in environmental file.
Ensure all soap/alcohol/glove and apron dispensers are clean and replenished.
Maintain stock levels in clinical area.
Ensure day room, nurse desk area, consultation rooms and staff fridge are tidy
Preparation of bed area when patient is discharged.
Ensure daily checks of Oxygen, Suction and call bells are both completed and documented.
Daily clean of IT equipment.
Participate in running taps to protect from legionella.
Ensure all meal tables and eating areas have been suitably cleaned and prepared for mealtime.
Order equipment and stock.
Ensure efficient and effective use of resources.
Support patient transfers when needed.
Ensure ward maintains high standard of health and safety.
Ensure compliance with policies, procedures and clinical guidelines.
Recognise and know how to summon help in emergency situations.
Report any incidents or issues via Datix system.
Attend mandatory training and relevant courses to maintain and develop own skills.
Help with hydration and nutritional needs of the patient.
Know how to access the most up to date policies
Working for our organisation
Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust encourages a multi-cultural workforce, with a focus on staff well-being.
You will be a valued team member who is happy to input ideas and suggestions but also ensure Trust Policy is adhered to.
Why Work With Us
Detailed job description and main responsibilities- Communicate effectively across a wide team and with a variety of patients and their loved ones.
Ensure clear, concise, accurate and legible records in accordance with local and national guidance
Ensure any patient related information is treated sensitively and always adhere to the principals of confidentiality
Participate in audit relevant to the role independently and accurately document results.
Be able to prioritise workload and communicate any issues to nurse in charge.
Enhance safety by maintaining a clean uncluttered environment where issues are reported promptly.
You will participate in lifting of objects, stores etc, and will demonstrate good manual handling techniques.
Demonstrate skills of manual dexterity and manipulation of clinical instruments and equipment, in line with appropriate training
Demonstrate keyboard skills to support their own learning and entering information into required systems
No direct clinical care, but you will support the patient, by ensuring adequate supplies and cleanliness to meet their needs.
Support patient flow by escorting the patient when needed alongside a porter during transfers.
Supporting patient with nutrition and hydration needs.
Readiness to admit the patient. Ensure bed space area is promptly cleaned and clinically ready to admit a new patient.
Always promote health and safety, sharing ideas with colleagues to improve care and suggest ideas for innovation
Participate in audit activity undertaken in area of practice
Adhere to legislation, policies, procedures and guidelines, both locally and nationally
No direct financial responsibility except as stated.
Exercise personal duty of care in the safe use and storage of equipment. Be environmentally aware and prudent in the use of resources and energy. Ensure safe keeping of patient property, in line with Trust policy
Ensure that adequate stock levels are maintained through standard ordering procedure, non-stock requisition and sourcing individualised resources through procurement.
Act responsibly in respect of colleague’s health, safety and welfare following safety at work practices, whilst working in compliance with local health and safety policy and guidance
Recognise and respect equality and diversity, demonstrating an inclusive approach in all environments
Report any concerns you may have.
You will be required to complete some audits online and so need to have or develop basic skills.
Follow all information governance guidance and policies, maintain confidentiality as outlined within Trust policies.
Ensure personal development by attending training and annual achievement review.
Work autonomously, in line with Trust policies and standard operating procedures under the direction of the ward coordinator.
Raise concerns or any matter outside of their scope of competence, to the Registered HCP or appropriate person
Person specification
Knowledge/experience
Essential criteria- general education and be prepared to complete training
- team working experience
- basic computers skills
- good communication skills
- good record keeping
- ability to adapt behaviour to changing and challenging situations
- ability to prioritise and organise work
- to be flexible, adaptable, reliable and punctual
- English & Mathematics at GSCE grade A-C (9-4) or level 2 functional skills
- Previous surgical experience.
- Knowledge of Health and Safety.
- Previous Hotel Services experience
- Previous acute hospital experience
- Previous housekeeping experience