Podiatry Assistant

We are seeking a caring, enthusiastic and motivated individual to support our team of Podiatrists in delivering quality foot health services in West Norfolk.

Podiatry Assistants assist Podiatrists to carry out foot care, surgery and health promotion in a variety of locations and settings, according to standard procedures and direction.

The caseload consists of patients who have been assessed by a podiatrist, and care plans delegated to the assistant. This will include providing care for vulnerable patients and post-surgical dressing changes.

Podiatry assistants also undertake the role of assistant in surgery and foot screening following protocol.

Some work is undertaken without direct supervision, and with a podiatrist available by phone, so you will need to work independently and as part of a team.

The ability to travel is essential, as work will be carried out in clinics, nursing homes, and domiciliary settings.

This is a rare and amazing opportunity to work as part of a friendly and supportive AHP team whilst learning new skills. The role of Podiatry Assistant is an ideal springboard if you are considering a career in Podiatry, via an apprenticeship or traditional entry route.

To assist podiatrists to carry out foot care and health promotion activities, according to standard procedures and direction. Caseload will consist of patients who have been assessed by a podiatrist, and care plan delegated to the assistant.

Foot care for vulnerable patients unable to self care - including drilling nails

Provide dressings clinics - changing dressing for patients delegated by a podiatrist

Assistant in nail surgery clinics

Diabetic foot screening.

To undertake a basic re-assessments, to analyse the facts, and make judgements to inform the care provided. To decide when to seek the support/guidance of a podiatrist.

To be proactive in managing in own time

To provide spontaneous and planned basic advice, teaching and instruction to patients, and carers to ensure the aims of podiatry are met and to ensure a consistent approach to patient care.

To receive and provide routine information. In communicating effectively with patients and carers, skills of persuasion, motivation, explanation and gaining informed consent will be used. Barriers of effective communication will be evident with some patients e.g. impaired hearing, altered perception, speaking a language other than English, pain and fear.

To gain valid informed consent

To be responsible for organising delivering patient education groups.

To maintain clinical records in line with Trust Policy and Professional Standards.

To undertake audits and some clerical tasks

Stock ordering and control

Norfolk Community Health and Care is a community Trust working over many locations in Norfolk providing care to patients. The podiatry team works at many locations and this post is mainly based in the west but the post holder may be expected to travel to any location within the organisation.

The post holder will be responsible for the care of a caseload of patients and perform as an assistant in surgery. Full training as an assistant will be given in this role.