Health Care Assistant Renal Unit

HCA Renal

Rotorua Hospital

Permanent, Part time 0.6 fte (48 hours fortnight)

A Health Care Assistant (HCA) role is a huge asset in a dialysis unit because patients attend three times a week for 4-5 hours – continuity and rapport really matter. HCA’s provide that consistent face, supporting clinical staff with patient set – setup, observation and practice care, which frees nurses to focus on complex clinical decisions while improving the overall patient experience.

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is firmly grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and is committed to building a health system that serves all New Zealanders.

About the Role

Average day of HCA in the dialysis unit.

Start of the shift /Patient arrival:

• Set up stations: prime lines, check machines safety test.
• Meet weigh patients, record pre-dialysis obs - BP, temperature.
• Help patients get comfortable, set up blankets, drinks, TV.
• Assist with mobility/transfers.

During Treatment (4-5 hrs)

• Hourly obs and document BP, pulse, any symptoms. Escalate concerns to RN immediately.
• Restock, run specimens to lab, manage linen/waste, clean machines, floor, tables and surfaces within the patient area between patients.
• Chat, advocate, keep an eye on mood – you’re often first to notice if someone is “off”

End of treatment/Turnaround

• Assist with machine turnarounds midshifts, strip and disinfect machines, prep station for next shift.
• Assist with take-off, record post-dialysis weight and obs.
• Help patient out safely

Between shifts and Admin

• Stock take and order supplies, clean clinical areas, check emergency equipment.
• Support PD patients with education material, supply packs, or clinic room set-up if needed.
• Hand over any patient concerns to nursing team and next HCA.

It is a mix of technical set-up, patient care, and keeping the unit running smoothly so RN’s can focus on clinical decision. You are the continuity person.

About the Team/Service/ Location

Our team of is made up of 16 HD nurses, 3 PD nurses and 2 HCA’s, with you joining as the third HCA to strengthen our support on the floor.

Health New Zealand |Te Whatu Ora Lakes provides healthcare from its two modern and progressive general hospitals in Rotorua and Taupo, New Zealand. The Lakes district is becoming the lifestyle destination of choice and is well known for its many outdoor recreational activities, family friendly beaches, and a growing multi-cultural community. Working at Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora Lakes provides a great opportunity to balance an amazing lifestyle with a rewarding professional experience.

As well as a supportive, inclusive and diverse work environment, Health New Zealand |Te Whatu Ora Lakes offer competitive salary, free staff parking, free flu vaccination, discounts (with local businesses), and access to Employee Assistance Program.

For more information on living and working in Rotorua and Taupo click here

Click here for Position Description

Click here for Collective Agreement (if applicable)

Working at Health New Zealand

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is dedicated to ensuring excellent healthcare for the people of New Zealand. We embrace a workforce that is diverse and inclusive so that we are better positioned to understand and service our community. We welcome applications from our diverse Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities. 

How to Apply

To apply please click “apply now.” All applications must be submitted through our online careers portal before end of posting date. If you have any questions about the role, please contact vacancy@lakesdhb.govt.nz.

The selection process starts from the date of advertising. Due to the fast-paced nature of our roles, the vacancy close date may be subject to change.