What does a Nursing Assistant do?
A Nursing Assistant provides basic care to keep patients well and comfortable. Their work supplements the efforts of Nurses and Doctors. They support Nurses by performing basic care duties and keeping Nurses updated on their patients’ conditions. They improve patient care and healthcare outcomes by providing dedicated support. They also relieve pressure on Nurses by performing many of their traditional duties. Their efforts help Nurses stay calm and focused on more complex tasks. As they improve patient outcomes and satisfaction, Nursing Assistants can improve the reputations of their healthcare facilities.
Nursing Assistant skills and qualifications
Nursing Assistants use a variety of soft skills to give their patients the best possible care. Hospitals, care homes and home health agencies typically hire Nursing Assistants. A successful Nursing Assistant candidate will have various prerequisite skills and qualifications that typically include:
- Verbal communication, including active listening, for talking to patients and relaying their concerns to Nurses
- Manual skills for moving patients and assisting them in daily tasks
- Customer service for patient satisfaction
- Conflict resolution for calming stressed or anxious patients
- Competent use of patient hoists, lifts and swings
- Basic computer literacy, including confidence using a PC and handheld devices to record patient information
- Competent domestic skills, including cleaning and organisation
Nursing Assistant experience requirements
Working as a Nursing Assistant is an entry-level job that does not require prior experience. However, employers prefer candidates who have some relevant experience. Completing an intermediate Healthcare Support Worker apprenticeship or work placement program provides valuable practical experience. People with past experience working as Trainee Care Assistants in residential or care homes will already know the basics of patient care. Volunteering in a healthcare setting or providing personal care to a loved one will also give candidates valuable practical experience.
Nursing Assistants education and training requirements
People usually become Nursing Assistants after completing college courses or apprenticeships. Relevant college courses include a Level 2 Certificate in Work Preparation for Health and Social Care, a Level 2 Diploma in Health and Social Care and a Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care. These courses typically include a work placement program. As GSCE requirements are less strict, some people prefer completing a Healthcare Support Worker apprenticeship. People can become Nursing Assistants with just GSCEs, but it usually takes several years working as a Trainee Nurse Assistant.
Nursing Assistant salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for Nursing Assistants in the UK is £10.54 per hour. Their exact salary may vary depending on location, candidate experience and the company.
Job description samples for similar positions
If a Nursing Assistant job description does not suit your needs, the following samples for similar positions may suit your company better: