Job Title: Health Care Aide
Location: High Level, AB
Shift: Morning, Night, Overnight
Wage: $27.60/Hour
Your Opportunity:
Northern Allowance: In addition to a competitive rate of pay, AHS currently has a Northern Allowance in place to an annual maximum of $6,300. This allowance is non-pensionable and is payable on an hourly basis for all hours paid at the basic rate of pay. Travel Expense Reimbursement: Permanent and temporary employees working in excess of one (1) year whose work sites are above the 57th parallel are also eligible to receive an annual reimbursement of personal travel expenses to an annual maximum of $1,235. Eligible employees will be reimbursed for the cost of one (1) round trip, per calendar year, to any destination within Alberta. Travel must originate from a community above the 57th parallel to any destination within Alberta and cannot be carried over.
Description:
As a Health Care Aide (HCA), you are responsible for providing personal assistance, supporting activities of daily living and providing comfort and support services to patients (clients, residents) who require short-term assistance or ongoing support. You will work closely with patients, families, and caregivers spanning the continuum of care in home, community or health care facilities. You will play a key role in providing safe, quality patient and family centered care while reflecting the shared vision and values of AHS.
Required Qualifications:
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.
What skills and qualities are important for a Care aid?
Skills and qualities that are important for a Care Aide (also known as a Healthcare Aide or Nursing Assistant) include:
- Compassion and Empathy: Care Aides work closely with individuals who may be in vulnerable situations or experiencing health challenges. Having compassion and empathy allows Care Aides to provide emotional support, understand clients’ needs, and deliver care with kindness and sensitivity.
- Communication Skills: Effective communication is crucial in healthcare settings. Care Aides need to communicate clearly with clients, their families, and healthcare professionals. They must listen actively, understand instructions, and convey information accurately.
- Personal Care Skills: Care Aides assist clients with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, toileting, grooming, and feeding. Having proficiency in personal care tasks and techniques, as well as maintaining client dignity and privacy, is important.
- Observation and Reporting: Care Aides observe clients’ physical and emotional well-being, noting any changes or concerns. They must be attentive to detail, recognize signs of distress or improvement, and effectively report their observations to the appropriate healthcare professionals.
- Empathy and Patience: Care Aides often work with individuals who may have physical limitations, cognitive impairments, or chronic conditions. Being patient and understanding allows Care Aides to provide support at the client’s pace and adapt to their unique needs.
Each healthcare facility or organization may have specific requirements and additional skills relevant to their setting. It’s essential to review job postings, consult with employers or regulatory bodies, and stay updated on best practices and continuing education opportunities to enhance skills as a Care Aide.
What education and certification are required to become a Care aid?
Skills and qualities that are important for a Care Aide (also known as a Healthcare Aide or Nursing Assistant) include:
- Compassion and Empathy: Care Aides work closely with individuals who may be in vulnerable situations or experiencing health challenges. Having compassion and empathy allows Care Aides to provide emotional support, understand clients’ needs, and deliver care with kindness and sensitivity.
- Communication Skills: Effective communication is crucial in healthcare settings. Care Aides need to communicate clearly with clients, their families, and healthcare professionals. They must listen actively, understand instructions, and convey information accurately.
- Personal Care Skills: Care Aides assist clients with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, toileting, grooming, and feeding. Having proficiency in personal care tasks and techniques, as well as maintaining client dignity and privacy, is important.
- Observation and Reporting: Care Aides observe clients’ physical and emotional well-being, noting any changes or concerns. They must be attentive to detail, recognize signs of distress or improvement, and effectively report their observations to the appropriate healthcare professionals.
- Empathy and Patience: Care Aides often work with individuals who may have physical limitations, cognitive impairments, or chronic conditions. Being patient and understanding allows Care Aides to provide support at the client’s pace and adapt to their unique needs.
Each healthcare facility or organization may have specific requirements and additional skills relevant to their setting. It’s essential to review job postings, consult with employers or regulatory bodies, and stay updated on best practices and continuing education opportunities to enhance skills as a Care Aide.
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
What is the work environment like for Care aid?
The work environment for Care Aides (also known as Healthcare Aides or Nursing Assistants) can vary depending on the setting in which they are employed. Here are some common work environments for Care Aides:
- Long-Term Care Facilities: Many Care Aides work in long-term care facilities, such as nursing homes, assisted living facilities, or residential care homes. In these settings, they provide care and assistance to individuals who require support with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, toileting, grooming, and mobility. The work environment involves interacting with residents, collaborating with healthcare professionals, and following care plans to ensure the well-being and comfort of the residents.
- Hospitals: Care Aides are employed in hospitals and may work in various departments, including medical-surgical units, intensive care units, rehabilitation units, or geriatric wards. In hospitals, Care Aides assist patients with their personal care needs, provide comfort, help with mobility, and support patients in their recovery. The work environment can be fast-paced and demanding, with Care Aides working alongside nurses and other healthcare professionals as part of a larger team.
- Home Care: Some Care Aides work in clients’ homes, providing care and support to individuals who prefer to receive assistance in their own residences. In this setting, Care Aides visit clients and provide personal care, medication reminders, assistance with activities of daily living, light housekeeping, and companionship. The work environment for home care can vary greatly as it involves working directly with clients in their unique home settings.
- Community Support Programs: Care Aides may work in community-based programs that support individuals with disabilities, mental health challenges, or chronic conditions to live independently in the community. These programs provide personalized care and support to clients in their own homes or community centers. The work environment involves visiting clients, providing care and assistance as needed, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals and community resources.
- Hospice or Palliative Care: Care Aides may work in hospice or palliative care settings, providing comfort, support, and assistance to individuals who are nearing the end of life. These environments focus on creating a peaceful and compassionate atmosphere for patients and their families. Care Aides in hospice or palliative care settings provide personal care, pain management assistance, emotional support, and help with maintaining a comfortable environment.
The work environment for Care Aides can involve physical tasks, emotional challenges, and a need for flexibility in terms of work hours and client needs. Care Aides often work in shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, to ensure continuous care for clients. The work can be rewarding as Care Aides have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals in need of care and support.