HCA – Orthopaedics

This role is responsible for delivering high-quality supportive services within the field of Orthopaedics. As an essential contributor to clinical excellence at Glasgow, the HCA ensures safe, effective, and compassionate care while working collaboratively within a multidisciplinary environment. The position requires strong communication skills, the ability to work effectively under the direction of registered staff, and a commitment to evidence-based, patient-centred practice.

Duties typically include assisting patients with personal care, supporting mobility and rehabilitation exercises, helping with nutrition and hydration, taking and recording observations, preparing patients for surgery or procedures, maintaining a safe and clean ward environment, and documenting delegated care activities accurately. HCAs may also contribute to governance, audit, and service improvement projects in line with their role.

The role involves active participation in team meetings, training sessions, and quality initiatives aimed at enhancing patient experience and service delivery. The HCA must demonstrate professionalism, empathy, resilience, and adaptability, ensuring that communication with patients, families, and colleagues is conducted to the highest standard. While fulfilling day-to-day responsibilities, there is an expectation to support the wider team, assist junior staff when appropriate, and engage in continuous learning to maintain competence.

The position requires the ability to prioritise delegated tasks effectively, respond calmly in high-pressure clinical environments, and escalate any concerns promptly to registered practitioners. Individuals are expected to uphold all clinical governance frameworks, safeguarding policies, and regulatory requirements while promoting a culture of safety, dignity, and respect.

Additionally, qualities such as problem-solving, initiative, and teamwork strengthen the contribution of the HCA to overall service effectiveness. Strong interpersonal skills and a patient-centred approach underpin this role, ensuring that care delivery aligns with organisational values and contributes positively to the broader healthcare mission at Glasgow. The role demands ongoing professional development, adaptability, strong teamwork, and a commitment to delivering consistently high-quality care.

Key Responsibilities:

• Deliver safe, effective, high‑quality clinical services.
• Conduct assessments and develop patient‑centred treatment plans.
• Maintain accurate documentation and adhere to clinical guidelines.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams.
• Support service development and quality improvement initiatives.
• Participate in training, teaching, and supervision where appropriate.
• Uphold safeguarding, governance, and regulatory standards.

Key Requirements:

• Relevant professional qualification and registration.
• Experience in the specialty of practice.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work autonomously and manage workloads.
• Commitment to evidence‑based and patient‑centred care.
• Understanding of clinical governance and risk management.
• Professionalism, reliability, and problem‑solving skills.