What happens on a shift as an agency carer?

[Newbienetter]

Hi everyone I have my first shift as a HCA today in a local care home through an agency. I've done my training etc but I'm just very anxious about what is going to happen. Any advice or tips would be appreciated!!

[FabulouslyGlamorousFerret]

Totally depends on the care home, you may fall in your feet and be giving less complex jobs, or be working with someone ... or you may be given all the 'not so pleasant tasks' because morale is low and all the regular staff need an easier shift!

The beauty of agency work is you don't have to go back if it's shit! (I did agency work to help pay for uni in my 20's - I mostly loved it)

[FabulouslyGlamorousFerret]

And tips ... smile be friendly, if you have nothing to do, tidy round, chat to the residents, offer to paint nails, massage feet, read to someone.

Don't ... read magazines or blatantly watch TV, ask the person in charge if there's anything you can do.

I was hardworking, friendly and kind to the residents and used to book all my shifts direct at the places I liked as they always wanted me back.

[ElspethFlashman]

Feeding people first, then washes and dressing people.

Then lots and lots of commodes and continence pads.

Making beds/changing sheets.

Then feeding again for lunch,

More toileting in the afternoon.

Then feeding again for tea.

It sounds hard, but it can be quite nice as the residents can be lovely.

Just be chatty and breezy and smile a lot. And report any skin redness to the nurse.

[FabulouslyGlamorousFerret]

How did your shift go OP?

[Newbienetter]

Went well thanks although just on quick break and exhausted. I've done this before however a long time ago! Thanks everyone for your help