JOANNE CATTANACH

On a daily basis in Diabetic Screening I support patients who have a lifelong medical condition that can have an impact on their eyes and affect their vision. I currently support patients through a visual test using Snellen test chart and recognise the importance of accurate testing using up-to-date visual aids and the accurate use of a pinhole. I use letter charts and if required number, picture, tumbling E charts for people who may have a learning disability, Dementia or English not their first language. I support carers, relatives and interpreters who attend appointments. I recognise the importance of respect and dignity and promote confidentiality. I record all histories and understand that information in pre screening can be vital to the outcome of the test. I support people with disabilities both physically and mentally for example wheelchair patients, hearing impairments, learning disabilities and stroke patients. Many patients that attend Diabetic Screening for their appointment have multiple health conditions so require good care, compassion and understanding. I also support patients who may have chronic complications due to their diabetes and understand the effect this can have on the areas of the body for example kidney problems, visual problems and amputations so when a patient attends their appointment I do foot screening, blood tests, BP etc. I work independently in either a photography clinic or a One Stop Clinic and support other services including Sunderland Podiatry and Sunderland Eye Infirmary.

My role as a Health Care Assistant in Accident and Emergency was to assist patients with daily personal care tasks and promote dignity and comfort. When a patient arrived in A&E after triage I would do all observations and an ECG. Communicate effectively with patients, families and healthcare professionals to ensure high quality care coordination. I also document care provided ensuring accurate and up-to-date records are kept.

My role as a Support Worker was to offer support and companionship reducing feelings of isolation among clients. I encouraged service users to be independent and active members of society. I escorted clients to shops, appointments and special events and communicated effectively with clients' families providing updates and advice to support them in their caring roles. I maintained detailed records of client progress, interventions and any changes in condition, contributing to continuous care improvement.

My role as a health care assistant was assisting patients with daily personal care, including bathing, dressing and toileting promoting dignity and comfort. I supported patients with nutrition and hydration needs ensuring they received appropriate meals and assisting with feeding when necessary and supporting with mobility issues, using equipment safely to aid movement. I responded promptly to patient call bells and requests for assistance; prioritising patients' safety and satisfaction. I monitored and recorded vital signs, contributing to health assessments and care charts and reported any changes to the registered nurse in charge or a doctor. Maintained a clean and hygienic environment in patient areas, adhering to infection control protocols.

My role as a lunch-time assistant was to supervise dining room environments encouraging safe, positive behaviour. I monitored child safety at all times throughout lunch time activities, promptly intervening to address hazards; also communicated and implemented lunchtime rules clearly and appropriately to children of varying ages.