Clinical Assistant

• Measure, record, and document patients' vital signs, including blood pressure and pulse, particularly for patients attending psychiatric medication appointments.
• Ensure observations are recorded accurately and communicated promptly to the treating clinician.
• Escalate abnormal readings, patient concerns, or any signs of clinical deterioration in accordance with established clinical protocols.
• Assist clinicians with routine patient-care activities within the scope of nursing qualifications, training, and competence.
• Prepare patients for consultations and support the clinical team in maintaining a safe and organised care environment.
• Ensure clinical equipment is clean, available, and functioning appropriately, and report any faults or concerns.

b. Planning & Organising

• Manage front desk activities, including welcoming patients, handling telephone calls, responding to enquiries, and directing patients to the appropriate clinician.
• Guide patients through the appropriate processes for appointment bookings, rescheduling, cancellations, and follow-up appointments.
• Maintain organised patient documentation and support accurate record-keeping.

c. Service Improvement

• Identify opportunities to improve reception processes, patient coordination, and the overall clinic experience.
• Follow established standard operating procedures (SOPs) and contribute feedback where processes could be made more efficient.
• Promote a patient-centred and neurodiversity-affirming environment, considering individual communication preferences and sensory needs.
• Maintain a clean, welcoming, accessible, and organised clinic environment.

d. Analysis & Judgement

• Recognise and promptly escalate abnormal vital-sign readings or patient concerns to the appropriate clinician.
• Exercise sound judgement when prioritising patient enquiries, appointment coordination, and routine clinic activities.
• Identify discrepancies in patient records or appointment information and seek clarification when required.
• Follow clinical protocols and established procedures, seeking guidance from the designated clinician or manager when situations fall outside the scope of the role.
• Maintain accuracy and attention to detail when documenting patient observations and updating records.

e. Communication

• Communicate clearly, professionally, and empathetically with patients, clinicians, colleagues, and other relevant stakeholders.
• Provide patients with clear guidance on appointment procedures, including bookings, cancellations, rescheduling, and follow-up arrangements.
• Communicate relevant patient observations and concerns promptly to the clinical team.
• Adapt communication to accommodate the needs and preferences of neurodivergent individuals, including allowing additional processing time and providing clear, structured information where appropriate.
• Maintain patient confidentiality and communicate sensitive information discreetly and in accordance with clinic policies.

6. Person Specification