What does a nursing assistant do?
Nursing assistants typically complement the work of nurses and doctors. They work in hospitals or in community care settings where they provide focussed support to enhance their patients’ care. They contribute to better outcomes for patients by taking essential responsibilities and keeping healthcare staff informed about their patients’ conditions. In a way, nursing assistants ease the workload of other healthcare professionals, particularly that of nurses. They handle routine tasks that improve patients’ satisfaction, allow nurses to focus on their responsibilities and enhance the reputation of healthcare facilities.
Nursing assistant skills and qualifications
There is no specific qualification for the role of nursing assistant. However, strong numeracy and literacy skills, such as GCSEs in Maths and English or A-levels, are often expected by employers. Having healthcare-related qualifications like an NVQ, BTEC, or HNC can give candidates an advantage. To be successful in the role, a mix of soft and hard skills is important, including:
- Strong communication skills, particularly active listening
- Attention to detail and keen observation
- The ability to work effectively in a team and collaborate with others
- Customer service and conflict resolution abilities to ensure patient satisfaction and to reduce their stress
- Competency in using hoists, lifts and swings
- Basic computer literacy for accurate data entry and in order to record patients’ information
- Practical domestic skills, such as cleaning and organising
This set of skills helps nursing assistants provide high-quality care while supporting healthcare teams effectively.
Nursing assistant experience requirements
For entry-level nursing assistant jobs, experience is not mandatory. However, relevant experience can give candidates a competitive edge. Practical experience can be gained through apprenticeships as a healthcare support worker or in work placement programmes and voluntary roles in healthcare settings. Experience as a trainee care assistant in care homes or residential facilities is also valuable as it provides fundamental knowledge of the healthcare environment and patient care. Experience in customer service or personal caregiving for a loved one can bring value to candidates’ applications as well. They demonstrate empathetic skills, communication abilities and attention to detail.
Nursing assistant education and training requirements
In the UK, becoming a nursing assistant doesn’t always require formal qualifications, but employers often prefer candidates with GCSEs in English and Maths (grades 9-4/A-C) or Functional Skills Level 2 in maths and English. Candidates with a Level 2 or Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care can boost their job prospects. Most training happens on the job, through apprenticeship programmes with many nursing assistants later completing an NVQ/QCF Level 2 or 3.
Nursing assistant salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a nursing assistant is £23,993 per year in the United Kingdom. Salaries may be dependent on experience, location and company.
Job description samples for similar positions
If this nursing assistant job description is not quite what you are looking for, check the below job description samples that may provide you with further insight.
Nursing assistant job description FAQs
What makes a strong nursing assistant CV?
When reviewing a nursing assistant CV, look for a clear dedication to patient care and the willingness to adapt and follow procedures. You can assess the candidates’ skills through their previous roles and validate if they align with your needs. Strong interpersonal skills and an empathetic approach to care are valuable traits to identify in potential candidates.
What are the differences between a nursing assistant and a nurse?
Nursing assistants handle basic medical duties like checking vital signs. Nurses take on more advanced responsibilities, they administer medications, give injections and manage wound care. Additionally, nurses hold nursing degrees, whereas nursing assistants often have certificates or diplomas in healthcare. Both roles can involve apprenticeship programmes, but nursing assistant programmes usually last 12 to 18 months, compared to the four years required for nursing degrees.
Who does a nursing assistant report to?
The answer will depend on the work environment of the role of nursing assistant you have available. In a GP surgery, nursing assistants typically report to the practice nurse or the nurse manager. In a hospital, their supervisor might be the ward manager. In a care home setting, they usually report to the care home manager.
What qualities do successful nursing assistants have?
The most successful nursing assistants are kind, compassionate people who genuinely care for their patients. They are sensitive to their patients’ needs and any discomfort they are feeling. Their empathetic and calm nature helps them stay composed at all times. They enjoy working with others as part of a nursing team and accept criticism well and use the feedback to improve their work habits. They also have good physical fitness, which helps them move patients and stay on their feet during long shifts.
*Indeed provides this information as a courtesy to users of this site. Please note that we are not your recruiting or legal advisor, we are not responsible for the content of your job descriptions, and none of the information provided herein guarantees performance.
