Care Support in Practice for Health Care Assistants

Care Support in Practice for Healthcare Assistants (published 2019) is an essential textbook for the Level 5 Care Support module, Level 5 Healthcare Support, Health Service Skills, Applied Social Studies, Community Studies, Nursing Studies (Pre-Nursing) and any course where healthcare is a component.

• Presents a concise summary of the Irish Healthcare System from 1180 to present day, a clear introduction to the Health Service Executive (HSE) and the role of the Health Information Quality Authority (HIQA).

• Clearly explains the role and responsibilities of a Health Care Assistant (HCA), who the HCA reports to, the Multidisciplinary team (MDT) and all relevant up-to-date employment legislation and entitlements.

• Explains the process of communication, how it improves client and MDT relationships, and how it can assist in dealing with challenging situations.

• Introduces 5 concepts that ensure delivery of high-quality care and discusses the issues of client confidentiality and care of client’s belongings. 

• Considers the client’s needs (physical, social, emotional & spiritual) throughout the lifespan and illustrates how to use the 12 Activities of Daily Living in care planning.

• Highlights the benefits of personal growth and development planning for the HCA.  

• Introduces reflective practice as a means of thinking about and analysing working methods with the aim of continuous improvement for the sake of both the HCA and the client.