the medical orderly (nursing auxiliary/health care assistant)

Who are they and what do they do? The task of a medical orderly is auxiliary work and assistance in healthcare activities.

What are the activities of the job? Assisting the nurses and doctors - basic patient care (e.g. hygiene, preparing a patient for examination and/or operation) - some basic medical treatments (e.g. bandaging) - providing patients with emergency care and first aid in case of failure of a vital function, in healthcare establishments or in the field - ensuring compliance with the principles of disinfection and sterilisation (e.g. the use of disinfectants) - care of the bed and other equipment and materials in healthcare establishments - care of the linen (transportation of the used linen and safely putting away the clean) - handling biological material (e.g. blood, urine) - washing instruments and aids - keeping contact with, and exerting positive influence on, patients - life-saving work in natural catastrophes and emergencies - carrying away the dead.

Where is it done and under what conditions? In healthcare establishments and hospitals as well as in the community. Shift working is usual and the object of the work may not be easily accessible.

What tools/equipment do they use? Mobile facilities for the transport of patients and sanitary material, bandaging technology, disinfectants, and their own hands.

What do you need to succeed? You need to have lower level healthcare training, a positive attitude to people, and patience. You also need to be good with your hands, physical fit, reliable, clean, and with quick reactions especially in emergency.