Suzanne Coates

I assist vulnerable people to live independently through the application of Assistive Technology. The core duties are to carry out dynamic risk assessments with individuals and carers, by phone, video call or home visits, in a variety of accommodation settings, to identify appropriate A.T to promote and maintain their independence. I arrange the installation of equipment, demonstrate and install some solutions, liaising with the relevant teams, agencies, organisations and product manufacturers / providers.

I work closely with other agencies to ensure that the assistive technology service is delivered effectively, and the user is assisted to access other services as necessary.

I manage a caseload and work autonomously, I have good time management skills and I report to my line manager, informally and via supervision to ensure an effective service is provided.

I keep accurate and up to date records, maintaining a good working knowledge of NCC computerised systems, data processing and associated procedures.

As a Trusted Assessment Facilitator I established a working and trusting relationship with the Managers of Residential and Nursing Homes in order to facilitate timely, safe and appropriate discharges. This required conversations with the Residential/Nursing Home Managers about what they require from the NHS Trust and the Discharge Teams. The main objective was to become the first point of contact and the voice of the Residential/ Nursing Home Managers within the Hospital. I was involved in producing a comprehensive assessment template and ensuring it had the relevant documentation required for a safe discharge. As part of this role I participated in presentations to promote the Trusted Assessor Scheme and talk to Colleagues from the Trust, Social Services and Community Teams. I was involved in daily Multi Disciplinary Team meetings on the Hospital Wards to deliver integrated Health and Social Care.

As an Assistant Practitioner I undertook holistic, person centred assessments and reviews involving Service Users, their families and carers in order to identify eligible social care needs. These assessments involved working with Service Users to assess risk and to develop risk management plans. I would highlight to Management complex cases such as those with Safeguarding issues, complex family dynamics and conflict. I worked to promote interdisciplinary relationships and partnership working to encourage an integrated approach to working.

I ensured that the services I provided were in accordance with the departmental standards, equal access, diversity and objectives of audited quality assurance.

During my time in the Ambulance Service I undertook patient assessments by carrying out initial observations including taking blood pressures, monitoring blood sugars, heart rate and oxygen saturations. This was completed prior to transportation by Ambulance. During the transportation I monitored the patient for any changes in their presentation. I had to complete comprehensive Patient Report Forms which were part of a clinical handover to the receiving Hospital. During my assessments if any of the observations were outside of normal parameters I requested back up by contacting Ambulance Control who would dispatch a Paramedic. To complete this role effectively I needed to remain calm whilst under pressure in a potentially life threatening situation. I also completed regular audits of medication, vehicles and equipment.

I worked in the Children's Clinic documenting patients observations prior to children and their families seeing the Paediatric Consultant. I would also be present in the Clinic Room if a distressing diagnoses or difficult conversation was to take place. I would support the parents, listening to their fears and concerns and seeking the best way forward. If a child required an operation I would describe what the day entails by using dolls, books and play to elevate their fears, also taking them to the Children's Ward to experience the environment they will return to after the operation.

As an Auxiliary Nurse I had a designated area looking after a set number of adult patients. I undertook observations, documenting the results in line with my role, escalating medical interventions when necessary. I provided personal care to patients as well as assisting them with meal and fluid intake.

Full time Mum duties.

I performed general clerical/admin office tasks such as filing, answering the telephone and booking appointments.