HCA in Ireland

Healthcare Assistant (HCA) – Job Description (Ireland)

A Healthcare Assistant (HCA) in Ireland provides high-quality, person-centred care and support to residents or patients in nursing homes, hospitals, and community healthcare settings. The role involves assisting individuals with daily living activities while promoting their independence, dignity, comfort, and well-being in accordance with Irish healthcare standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist residents with personal care, including bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting.

• Support residents with mobility, transferring, and repositioning using appropriate moving and handling techniques.

• Assist with feeding, meals, and maintaining adequate hydration.

• Monitor and report changes in residents' physical, emotional, and mental health to nursing staff.

• Record vital signs and maintain accurate care documentation as required.

• Provide emotional and social support, respecting residents' privacy, dignity, and individual needs.

• Follow infection prevention and control procedures and maintain a clean, safe environment.

• Work collaboratively with nurses, healthcare professionals, and other care team members.

• Respect residents' rights, confidentiality, cultural backgrounds, and personal preferences.

• Follow HIQA standards, safeguarding procedures, and organisational policies.

  Qualifications and Requirements

• QQI Level 5 Certificate in Healthcare Support or equivalent qualification.

• Ideally, completion of modules such as Care Skills, Care of the Older Person, Infection Prevention and Control, and Safety and Health at Work.

• Knowledge of person-centred care and safeguarding.

• Good communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to work as part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team.

• Previous experience in a healthcare or nursing home setting is an advantage.