Health Care Aide

The Health Care Aide (HCA) is a member of the interdisciplinary health care team and is responsible for providing direct care to assist in the activities of daily living, comfort and safety of the patient, and provides indirect services to support the overall provision of care in their assigned area. These services are provided under the supervision and direction of the Registered Nurse (RN), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), or regulated healthcare professional following their designated colleges’ supervision guidelines. The type of supervision required (direct or indirect) will depend on the complexity of the task or procedure being assigned, the stability of the patient and the skill level of the HCA performing the task. Minimum knowledge and skill requirements for HCAs are acquired through education based on the Provincial Curriculum for Health Care Aides or equivalent. The specific skills of the HCA relative to the requirements of the position are determined, in this order, by applicable legislation, the employer (based on the need and safety of the patient population), the characteristics of the care setting and the individual knowledge and skill of the HCA. HCA’s are responsible and accountable for the tasks and support functions assigned to them, and for understanding tasks or functions they are able and not able to perform in a particular setting.

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.

Must be able to communicate in verbal and written English. Ability to work as a member of a team and to request and accept direction as required.

Effective interpersonal and communication skills with patients/families, visitors and team members. Effective time management skills. Previous healthcare experience is an asset. It’s your Move training completion. BCLS certification is required. Acute care medical or surgical unit HCA experience within the last 3 years.