Health Care Aide

The Health Care Aide (HCA) also known as a nursing attendant or patient care aide-provides direct care to assist in the activities of daily living, comfort and safety of the spine patient under the supervision and direction of the RN or LPN. The Spine HCA provides nursing care for patients and families for the purpose of promoting, maintaining or restoring health and preventing illness, injury and disability. The HCA works alongside other nursing disciplines such as Nurse Practitioners, Nurse Clinicians, Registered Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses. A strong commitment to teamwork is required, as well as excellent inter-professional communication.

As a Health Care Aide (HCA), you will work as a collaborative member of the multi-disciplinary team providing personal assistance including supporting activities of daily living and support services to patients (clients, residents) who require short-term assistance or ongoing support, in accordance with the patient care plan and facility policies and procedures. In this position you will work closely with patients, families, and caregivers spanning the continuum of care in home, community or health care facilities assisting nurses with the provision of routine care to meet patients' hygiene, nutrition, mobility, recreation and safety needs, assisting with organized activities or programs and observing and reporting on a patient's mood, health, and wellbeing. Working under a regulated health professional you will be assisting in the maintenance of a safe environment for patients, staff and visitors, and maintaining effective communication with patients and health professionals.

Completion of Health Care Aide Certificate within 18 months of hire and active directory status on the Alberta Health Care Aide Directory. Must provide a confirmation letter as proof of enrolment from the Directory at https://www.albertahcadirectory.com/health-care-aides/confirmation/. Nursing students currently enrolled in an approved Alberta nursing program who have successfully completed a minimum of 100 hours of practicum; and are either in their 1st year of practical nursing program; or 2nd year of baccalaureate nursing or psychiatric nursing program will be considered. Must attest to this compliance and provide proof of qualification.

Graduation from an approved education institution that meets the Health Care Aide Government of Alberta Provincial Curriculum; or has been deemed as substantially equivalent. Current BCLS-HCP certification. At least 6 months acute care experience as an HCA. Strong interpersonal communication skills are essential. Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with and receive direction from RN/LPN. Basic computer skills are required. Ability to contribute as a team member, learn within a dynamic environment and adapt/cope with change. Demonstrated commitment to collaborative practice. Demonstrate excellent time management and organizational skills. Ability to manage the job classification of heavy physical demand level as per the AHS Job Demands Summary, requiring ability to assist with ambulation, transferring, and lifting of patients. Ability to lift and turn patients safely utilizing appropriate techniques and equipment (IYM). Must be able to stand and ambulate for a full shift.

One to two years’ experience in an acute post-operative / surgical setting. Previous spine or neurosurgery patient experience.