A Health Care Aide, also known as a Personal Support Worker (PSW) or Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), is a compassionate and dedicated professional who provides essential care and support to individuals with healthcare needs. Working under the supervision of nurses or other healthcare professionals, Health Care Aides assists patients with their daily activities, personal care, and medical needs. They play a crucial role in improving the quality of life for patients, ensuring their comfort, safety, and well-being.
Overview
Languages
English
Education
- College, CEGEP or other non-university certificate or diploma from a program of 1 year to 2 years
- or equivalent experience
Experience
1 year to less than 2 years
Responsibilities:
- Assisting patients with personal hygiene tasks, including bathing, grooming, and dressing.
- Providing mobility assistance, such as helping patients with transferring and positioning.
- Assisting with feeding and meal preparation, considering dietary requirements and restrictions.
- Administering medication as prescribed and monitoring patients’ vital signs.
- Assisting with light housekeeping tasks, ensuring a clean and safe environment for patients.
- Providing companionship and emotional support to patients, engaging in conversations and recreational activities.
- Reporting any changes in patients’ condition or concerns to the nursing staff.
- Documenting patient information and maintaining accurate records.
Qualifications:
- Completion of a Health Care Aid program or certification from an accredited institution.
- First Aid and CPR certification.
- Knowledge of basic healthcare procedures, infection control, and safety protocols.
- Compassion and empathy towards patients, with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Physical stamina and the ability to lift and assist patients with mobility.
- Good organizational skills and the ability to work effectively in a team.
- Understanding of patient confidentiality and respect for privacy.
Tasks
- Supply and empty bed pans
- Take patients’ blood pressure, temperature and pulse
- Serve meal trays and feed patients
- Make beds and maintain patients’ rooms
- Bathe, dress and groom patients
- Answer call signals
- Accompany patients on outside recreational activities and perform other duties related to patient care and comfort
- Administer first aid in emergency situations
Additional information
Work conditions and physical abilities
- Standing for extended periods
- Combination of sitting, standing, walking
Weight handling
Who can apply to this job?
The employer accepts applications from:
- Canadian citizens and permanent or temporary residents of Canada.
- Other candidates with or without a valid Canadian work permit.
How to apply
By email
[email protected]
How-to-apply instructions
Here is what you must include in your application:
- cover letter
- References attesting experience
- The highest level of education and the name of the institution where it was completed
This job posting includes screening questions. Please answer the following questions when applying:
- Are you available for shift or on-call work?
- Are you currently legally able to work in Canada?
- Are you willing to relocate for this position?
- Do you currently reside in proximity to the advertised location?
- Do you have previous experience in this field of employment?
Advertised until
2023-07-26
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you gain a better understanding of this Health care aid:
What is a Health Care Aid?
A Health Care Aide, also known as a Personal Support Worker (PSW) or Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), is a trained professional who provides assistance and support to individuals who are unable to fully care for themselves due to illness, disability, or age-related limitations. They work under the supervision of nurses or other healthcare professionals to deliver personal care, administer medication, assist with daily activities, and provide emotional support to patients.
What are the responsibilities of a Health Care Aide?
The responsibilities of a Health Care Aide may vary depending on the healthcare setting and the specific needs of the patients. However, common responsibilities include:
- Assisting with personal hygiene tasks, such as bathing, grooming, and dressing.
- Providing mobility assistance, including transferring and positioning patients.
- Assisting with feeding and meal preparation, ensuring dietary requirements are met.
- Administering medication as prescribed and monitoring patients’ vital signs.
- Assisting with light housekeeping and maintaining a clean and safe environment for patients.
- Providing companionship and emotional support to patients, engaging in conversation and recreational activities.
- Reporting any changes in patients’ condition or concerns to the nursing staff.
What qualifications and skills are required to become a Health Care Aide?
The specific qualifications and skills required may vary depending on the region and healthcare facility. However, common requirements include:
- Completion of a Health Care Aid program or certification from an accredited institution.
- First Aid and CPR certification.
- Knowledge of basic healthcare procedures, infection control, and safety protocols.
- Compassion and empathy towards patients, with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Physical stamina and the ability to lift and assist patients with mobility.
- Good organizational skills and the ability to work effectively in a team.
- Understanding of patient confidentiality and respect for privacy.
Where do Health Care Aids typically work?
Health Care Aides work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and private residences. They may also provide home care services, visiting patients in their homes to provide assistance with daily activities and personal care.
What are the career prospects for Health Care Aids?
The demand for Health Care Aids is expected to grow significantly due to the aging population and increased healthcare needs. This provides excellent career prospects for individuals pursuing a career in this field. Health Care Aides can further advance their careers by gaining specialized certifications, such as dementia care or palliative care, or by pursuing further education to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN).
What is the importance of a Health Care Aide in the healthcare system?
Health Care Aides play a vital role in the healthcare system by providing essential care and support to patients who require assistance with their daily activities and personal care. They help improve the quality of life for individuals who may be vulnerable or facing health challenges, ensuring their comfort, dignity, and well-being. Health Care Aids contribute to the overall functioning of healthcare facilities and are valued members of the healthcare team.