Healthcare Assistant - Oncology Services at Limerick Cancer Centre

Position Overview

This permanent, full-time role is based at the Limerick Cancer Centre. The Healthcare Assistant will operate under the oversight of the Clinical Nurse Manager and Operations Manager to support nursing and other professionals in delivering excellent patient care within oncology services.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide personal and clinical assistance to patients as delegated by nursing staff, ensuring alignment with hospital policies and UPMC core values.
• Undertake baseline clinical observations such as monitoring blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and urinalysis under nurse supervision.
• Support pre-treatment protocols including bladder filling and act as a chaperone when requested by patients or clinicians.
• Maintain patient dignity and confidentiality, acting as an advocate and encouraging patient independence in care.
• Ensure a safe and clean environment by following infection control policies, managing clinical equipment hygiene, and handling clinical waste appropriately.
• Assist with patient mobility, including helping patients move safely to prevent falls, positioning, and using mobility aids as directed.
• Perform stock management duties using inventory control systems to ensure availability of supplies and contribute to clinical audits on cleanliness and safety.
• Adhere to health and safety regulations, report hazards and incidents promptly, and attend mandatory training including fire safety and communication protocols.
• Engage in effective communication with patients, families, and multidisciplinary teams, supporting quality, respectful, and person-centred care.
• Participate actively in team meetings, patient care planning, and continuous personal development through appraisals and education sessions.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Proven experience working within a health or caring service environment.
• Understanding and application of a person-centred care approach.
• Awareness of nursing roles and health service operations.
• Familiarity with health and safety standards relevant to healthcare settings.
• Commitment to upholding professionalism, conservation of patient dignity, and confidentiality.

Additional Information

• Reporting lines include direct supervision by the Clinical Nurse Manager or designated officers and operational accountability to the Operations Manager.
• Flexibility to work within the Cancer Centre network as required.
• The role involves following strict infection prevention and safety protocols specific to oncology care environments.
• The healthcare assistant must adhere to policies on personal conduct, including attire, hygiene, and device use around patients.
• This position requires teamwork and cooperation across various healthcare disciplines to maintain a safe and supportive environment.