JOB DESCRIPTION- OPD Assistant

JOB DESCRIPTION

JOB TITLE:                                      OPD Assistant

REPORTS TO:                                             Outpatient Sister

ACCOUNTABLE TO:                     Nursing Superintendent

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

It is the responsibility of the OPD Assistant to function as an integral member of the health care team by assisting to meet the physical, psychological and psychosocial needs of the patients, and ensuring smooth and effective running of the department. 

Responsibility lies with the OPD Assistant not to undertake any duty for which adequate training and competency assessment has not been carried out, nor to undertake tasks other than those requested by qualified nurses.

MAIN DUTIES

1.         Clerical / Administrative

·               To answer departmental telephones promptly and courteously, taking the appropriate actions according to the enquiry mode or information required.

·               To deal promptly and courteously with all Consultants and patients in the department, where necessary referring to the relevant Nurse.

·               To collect results where necessary.

·               To assist in the Reception/Appointments when necessary.

·               To ensure that adequate stock levels are kept within the department and reporting any reduction to the nursing staff.

·               Checking the day-to-day cleanliness of the department and reporting any problems to the in-charge of the department.

·               Participate in any other duties as requested by the Outpatient Sister.

·               Assist the Health Screening Nurse by finding and filing the relevant notes, results etc for patients.

2.         Consultant and Patient Care Related

·               To transfer and accompany patients to other Departments within the Hospital for treatment, under the direction of the Registered Nurse.

·               To report any concerns or untoward incidents immediately to the nurses on duty.

·               To assist/chaperone the Consultants as necessary under the direction of the nurses on duty.

·               To assist the Patients when specimens are required for the laboratory, and routinely testing urine as required, under the direction of the nurses on duty.

3.         Communication

·               To maintain absolute confidentiality of information relating to patients and staff including verbal, written and electronically stored information.

·               To ensure that all relevant information is relayed to nursing staff on a timely and relevant basis.

·               To answer the telephone, receive record and relay messages promptly and in line with department policy.

·               To demonstrate the highest regard and respect for the wishes, needs and lifestyles of all patients, being accepting and non-judgmental at all times.

·               To discuss any difficulties with senior nursing staff.

·               To learn how to use information systems and maintain accurate written information.

·               To perform administrative/clerical duties in the absence of clinic staff:  Collection of mail, equipment, pharmacy orders: filing notes, results and x-rays in the absence of clerical/Portering staff.

4.         Housekeeping

To assist in the maintenance of a clean, tidy, comfortable and safe department by:

·               Applying the principles of health and safety at work, reporting faults, mishaps etc in accordance with legislation and hospital policy.

·               Applying principles of infection control at all times, under the supervision of the trained nurse, including renewal of sharps boxes.

·               Ensuring all clinical areas are tidy, uncluttered, accessible and able to be used for their intended purpose.

·               Noting faults in building or equipment and ensuring repairs are initiated.

·               Ensuring emergency equipment is ready and available for use at all times.

·               Disposing of rubbish and laundry as per agreed procedures.

·               Applying strict hygiene methods when handling food or kitchen/storage equipment, paying due regard to food handling guidelines.