Category: Career Guidance

Career Guidance, Homecare/Healthcare, Jobs for Nurses, Workplace Relations

The Role of Communication in Healthcare Staffing

5 tips on finding the right homecare provider
The Role of Communication in Healthcare Staffing

The Role of Communication in Healthcare Staffing

The role of communication in healthcare staffing cannot be underestimated especially when it comes to ensuring optimal patient care. All health departments must create a system where they can work together in order to provide for the patients as well as all staff involved. This has a range of benefits which ensures that collaboration is promoted, patient outcomes are improved as well as a reduction in errors. This creates a successful working environment for all involved.

Promotes collaboration

It is essential in promoting teamwork and collaboration among staff. Workers can work together to provide efficient and coordinated care to patients. The ultimate goal of a healthcare provider is to provide quality care and improve patient outcomes. Clear and concise collaboration between healthcare professionals helps in forming a shared understanding of patient needs and treatment plans. It reduces errors, improves patient satisfaction as well as health outcomes.

Staffing agencies and hospitals can cultivate a positive working relationship that enhances the overall quality of healthcare services provided to patients. This involves several aspects, including clear job descriptions, timely updates, and ongoing support during the hiring and onboarding process. It paves the way for efficient teamwork, trust, and respect between the two entities, ensuring that they can work together to serve their community’s healthcare needs.

Whether it is nurses and doctors working together to ensure patients receive the right people with the right skills and knowledge at the right time, or staff administration collaborating with workers and staffing agencies through the hiring process. This collaboration helps to promote effective communication throughout a healthcare environment.

Did You Know?

39% of Irish people ask that healthcare professionals use more understandable language and less medical jargon.

Nurse and midwife giving thumbs up and The Role of Communication in Healthcare Staffing

Improved patient outcomes

Effective conversation and rapport between care providers and patients can help to build trust and increase patient satisfaction. This then results in improved patient outcomes. Listening to patients about their symptoms allows healthcare providers to assess their conditions, understand their needs, and provide the appropriate treatment plan.

In turn, appropriate instructions given to patients can help them to adhere to medication regimes, manage their conditions and prevent readmissions. This reduces the likelihood of errors and misunderstandings that can lead to negative outcomes.

Showing empathy and speaking directly to patients is critical in building trust and rapport. Families of patients can feel heard and listened to in a hospital setting which gives them the peace of mind that their loved ones are being looked after.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO):

There are fewer errors and better treatment outcomes when there is good communication between patients and their health-care providers.

Reduces errors

If there is miscommunication, this can lead to errors which can be detrimental to patients. This miscommunication can be between healthcare staff or healthcare staff and their patients. Mistakes such as incorrect dosage, carrying out procedures incorrectly, misdiagnosis, or administering the wrong medication may occur. It is important that the medical staff listen to their patients about their symptoms so they can reduce errors in diagnosing their condition.

When healthcare professionals have open communicative channels with their colleagues, they can offer valuable insights, learn from each others’ experiences, and work together to deliver the best possible care for patients.

Staffing agencies play a vital role in ensuring that hospitals have the right personnel to meet the right patient needs. They can work with hospitals to identify areas where additional staff is needed and can provide qualified candidates to fill those positions. By doing so, errors caused by understaffing or lack of qualifications are reduced.

Business and hospital staff. Ensuring a Diverse Pool of Candidates with a Staffing Agency

Collaboration is at the heart of how Servisource operates. Our consistent, dedicated bookings coordinator gives hospitals and care facilities the confidence we can provide for them. With a direct line to our dedicated booker, staffing requirements can be discussed at any time of the day.

We pride ourselves on successful patient outcomes and a reduction in errors. Our team provides hospitals with a 24-hour service with guaranteed fast results and excellent service. These are some of the key reasons why we have been the partner of choice for hospitals since 2010. We source the right people with the right skills and knowledge at the right time, allowing continuity of patient care for our clients and patients.

Healthcare staff and The Role of Communication in Healthcare Staffing

Communication is a critical factor in healthcare staffing. Whether it is through doctor-to-patient or staffing agency-to-hospital HR interactions, it is imperative that there are clear conversations between all parties involved. Organisations learn to implement techniques such as openness so that everyone understands each other’s goals and objectives clearly. This in turn leads to a higher quality of collaboration and care, better patient outcomes, and smoother operation processes with a reduction in errors.

Contact Servisource for all your Temp Staffing needs.

Servisource Healthcare

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Career Guidance, Homecare/Healthcare, Jobs for Nurses, Workplace Relations

The Importance of Health Screenings in the Workplace

5 tips on finding the right homecare provider
Doctor and worker health screening

The Importance of Health Screenings in the Workplace

Keeping employees healthy and safe should be a priority for employers and one way to do this is by providing them with access to health screenings. These can make all the difference when it comes to a thriving work force. They are one part of how an employer can get proactive about worker safety, leading employees to feel valued and respected in their environment as well as helping boost morale within the business. The importance of health screenings in the workplace cannot be underestimated especially with the below range of benefits that come with it.

1. Allows early detection

It is known that healthy employees lead to a healthy business. These screening programmes give employees the opportunity to identify potential problems before symptoms appear, providing valuable insights into their condition. The advantages of early detection include:

  • Quicker intervention which prevents conditions worsening.
  • Reduces absenteeism from work because of a healthy workforce.
  • Reduces healthcare costs because of less illnesses.

Quicker intervention means that if there are any unhealthy conditions found, then the screening will find it, allowing that employee to seek medical help and preventing the condition from worsening. It prevents them from having to take time out of work in order to make appointments with a healthcare provider for check ups.

It gives them the peace of mind that their health concerns are being looked after and prevents them from becoming unexpectedly ill. By identifying an employee with high blood pressure and cholesterol, it can help to identify the risk of heart disease, allowing them to take action to prevent further damage to their state of being.

Within the past few years, it has been important for businesses and healthcare facilities to screen and test for Covid-19.

This minimises the spread of the virus within the workplace and helps identify COVID-19 symptoms before they spread. 

Servisource Occupational Healthcare are leading providers of Covid-19 PCR & Antigen Testing onsite for clients, ensuring a better and safer work environment for all. PCR & Antigen Testing is required for a variety of reasons: when travelling abroad, returning from abroad, returning to work or just for peace of mind, especially when in contact with those who are vulnerable or elderly. 

Why Choose Servisource Occupational Health for Covid-19 Testing:

– Travel Clearance Certificate available.
– Fast Results within 12-36 hours.
– All testing performed by Registered General Nurses.
– Discounted Local Rates.

2. Helps increase productivity

They are a necessary and effective way to keep employees healthy, happy and productive. By offering them, employers are sending a message to their staff that their well-being matters. When employees feel that their employer cares about their health, they are more likely to feel motivated and engaged in their work. They become more mindful and more aware of how to stay healthy, therefore leading to a better lifestyle.

Did You Know?

Nearly 40% of Irish workers are struggling with everyday life due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
This is according to a study by Laya Healthcare, which found that 91% of respondents reported an increase in anxiety.

stressd worker and The Importance of Health Screenings in the Workplace

These statistics underline the importance of these check ups. When employers take conscious steps to place employees’ health as a priority, it demonstrates their commitment and concern for their well being. In turn, employers can reap the rewards of increased productivity where employees feel supported.

Promoting a culture of health and wellness in work can foster a less stressed and engaged workforce, which can translate into a positive impact on the company’s growth.

3. Attracts and retains employees

Employees take pride in being a part of an organisation that values their well-being, creating a sense of loyalty and commitment to the company. Offering this service can help retain current employees and attract new talent, as employees are more likely to stay with a company that values them. By prioritizing them, companies can create a culture of wellness along with the below benefits:

  • Helps to build trust, reinforcing the company’s commitment to employees by showing concern and care.
  • Reduces absenteeism – if a serious problem is identified early, it can be prevented, therefore reducing the need for replacement staff.
  • It attracts potential employees who see it as a huge benefit, preventing them from visiting healthcare services outside of work, which can interfere with their home life.

Prioritising health is a smart investment for any business looking to keep their workforce strong and productive. Employees are also more inclined to apply for work that provides this service, as it is seen as a great benefit within today’s competitive job market.

Occupational Health Screening with Servisource

We are a leading supplier of High Quality Occupational Health Services and provide a confidential, professional service with a state of the art online medical booking system. Onsite and mobile screening is available and the following are just a few of the testing services we have on offer:

  • Blood Pressure checks.
  • Covid19 PCR & Antigen Testing.
  • ECG Cardiology Screening.
  • Optical Eye Tests.
  • Blood Tests.
  • Lung Function Tests.

Servisource’s aim is to educate and inform employees through our Employee Wellness Programme, which advises on developing individual practical changes to promote physical, mental and social wellbeing and is carried out through seminars and lunch time talks.

Business and hospital staff. The Importance of Health Screenings in the Workplace

The importance of providing this service in the workplace cannot be underestimated. They are an important way to catch potential health issues early and provide employees with the appropriate resources to help treat them.

Investing in them regularly can also improve morale, productivity and overall company performance while improving retention rates. It creates a healthier and happier working environment which is something every organisation should strive towards.

Want to know more about our Occupational Health Services?

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Career Guidance, Courses, Homecare/Healthcare

Flexible Training Options for Busy Healthcare Professionals

5 tips on finding the right homecare provider
Healthcare training

Flexible Training Options for Busy Healthcare Professionals

As a busy healthcare professional, it can be difficult to fit professional development into an already packed schedule, with long shifts, variable hours and tight deadlines. However, there are a number of options available that allow you to get the most out of your learning without sacrificing too much of your valuable free time. We will explore some flexible training options for busy healthcare professionals and list the benefits for each one.

Online courses and webinars

Online courses and webinars provide the flexibility to access materials anytime from anywhere, as long as there is an internet connection. This has become a common way of learning since the pandemic, with many students and workers working from home instead of on site.

It comes with a wide range of learning materials such as: videos, interactive simulations, and quizzes. The benefits of it make it a fantastic option for healthcare professionals looking to further their education and improve their skills. Some of these benefits are:

  • Allows for more flexibility as coursework can be completed at their own convenience. They can study during their downtime or whenever they have a free moment using a laptop, computer, tablet or phone.
  • It is often more cost-effective than traditional face-to-face learning, which can be a major advantage for budget-conscious healthcare providers.
  • Eliminates the need for travel, which can be a significant advantage for busy healthcare workers who may not have the time to travel to conferences or events.

Employees can expand their knowledge and skills in a convenient manner. With more and more people opting to take courses online, it is expected that the number of these types of learning options will only continue to rise.

At Servisource, we are a leading supplier of tailor-made & flexible training solutions. With tailored days to suit our clients, whether that means travelling to a specific location or conducting online courses, we ensure workshops are held at the right place. Our team can also organise essential certifications and paperwork on behalf of clients.

Training with Servisource

Here are just some of our courses that you can take part in:

– Online Manual Handling Courses.
– Online Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults.
– Online Infection Prevention & Control.
– People Moving and Handling.
– Heartsaver AED.

Flexible Training Options for Busy Healthcare Professionals

Servisource takes pride in being accommodating to all our clients and we make sure to continually ensure compliance is always up to date. We can deliver high-quality courses nationwide due to the large number of expert instructors working with us.

Self-paced learning

This offers busy medical professionals an effective solution for upskilling without taking away from their critical duties at work. Offering countless advantages over traditional classroom courses, this type enables learners to progress through their curriculum in an independent structure, allowing them to fit it into their own schedule as they see fit. It can be a great choice for any healthcare provider looking to increase their skillset with minimal disruption during hectic work days. The benefits of this type of learning are:

  • Allows them to learn at their own pace and around their very hectic work as it lets learners set their own schedule and pace for studying new content.
  • Leads to less stress and more focus on learning, leading to better retention of knowledge.

With these advantages, professionals can upskill as well as deliver high-quality healthcare services to their patients. It gives them more control over their studying and allows them to take their time with the learning content, resulting in a very convenient form of professional development.

Did You Know?

A 2021 surveys suggests that non consultant hospital doctors in Ireland strongly desire an expansion of current flexible training options. 

On-the-job learning

This involves learning the practical skills necessary for the job. It allows new hires to begin working immediately and allows them to gain a little insight into the context and job requirements before trying it on their own. This is crucial for healthcare staff as it imparts a hands-on experience that is hard to come by through a conventional classroom environment. The benefits of this type are:

  • Work can be done at the same time as patients are dealt with, saving valuable time.
  • Especially beneficial for high-risk areas in healthcare, such as surgery or emergency departments as it allows the trainee to experience these procedures first-hand.
  • Provides an instant feedback loop that enhances their learning experience.

This is a crucial tool in the healthcare sector for providing ongoing education and professional development to staff, which in turn benefits patient outcomes and quality of care. It can help businesses achieve greater productivity and allow employees to develop their skills and competencies quickly.

Healthcare professionals who are interested in enhancing their skills and staying up-to-date on advancements in the field, should consider the different options they have access to. The above methods allow workers to learn in their own time, helping them to have a better work/life balance as well as gaining some valuable experience.

There is no limit as to what can be accomplished when learning through the right method for you. Therefore, it is good to explore your options today to see which type suits your busy work life.

Why not view our Flexible Training Options today?

Servisource- Total Solutions Training

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Career Guidance, Homecare/Healthcare, Workplace Relations

The Impact of Burnout on Healthcare Workers

5 tips on finding the right homecare provider
Tired healthcare worker

The Impact of Burnout on Healthcare Workers

Burnout can be described as emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion as a result of long-term exposure to work-related stressors. Healthcare staff, such as nurses and doctors, are often affected by their demanding schedules. This impact of burnout on healthcare workers can have serious repercussions for them professionally and personally, as well as their patients.

Reduced job satisfaction

It is all too common to end up overworking in this industry which can have a major impact on job satisfaction. This in turn can negatively impact the quality of care being provided. It makes it more difficult for workers to maintain their passion for their work with the long hours, high-pressure environment, and immense responsibility that comes with the job. This can take a toll on even the most dedicated of professionals.

Managing the physical and emotional job demands can be tiring and it can be easy to feel disconnected. Taking time off work and seeking support from colleagues and loved ones, can help to overcome this feeling of dissatisfaction.

Prioritising mental health and wellbeing is crucial for building a fulfilling and sustainable career in this field. Hospitals and care facilities can create an environment that values compassion and respect by listening to workers when they need to talk or if they have any issues. This creates a better work environment which allows a safe haven from the demands of working in a high-stress occupation.

How to Prevent Burnout

• Place an importance on a healthy eating lifestyle.
• Receive mental health support if needed.
• Cultivate positive relationships with colleagues at work.
• Ensure you engage in social activities outside of your work life.

Increased risk of physical ailments

Physical ailments are another factor of working in high-stress environments for prolonged periods of time. From high blood pressure and heart disease to fatigue, headaches, and muscle pain, it can show up in numerous ways. They can disrupt the body’s normal immune, hormonal, and inflammatory responses, making it more vulnerable to disease. There is also a risk of catching contagious viruses while being constantly surrounded by sick patients, as we have seen during the pandemic in recent years.

As a result of the pandemic, Irish healthcare workers experienced severe exhaustion from high rates of Covid-19 infections among co-workers. In fact, more than 70% of doctors have experienced sever exhaustion since the Covid pandemic.

The knock-on effects were high rates of anxiety, stress, and depression caused by an overused workforce. This is why it is so important to protect staff while they carry out their important work. Protection can be provided through personal protective equipment (PPE gear) such as surgical masks and face shields. This reduces the risk of them becoming sick and allows them to carry out their work as intended.

Did You Know?

Severe fatigue has a greater impact on younger professionals than older, experienced ones. In fact, two-thirds of emergency doctors experience it.

The Impact of Burnout on Healthcare Workers

Increased risk of medical errors

Tiredness and stress in the workplace can impair cognitive functions. This can make it difficult to make sound decisions and respond quickly to patient needs as well as making it hard to communicate effectively. It is important to recognise the signs and take steps to prevent it in order to ensure that patients receive the highest quality of care possible. These errors can have serious consequences, even leading to fatalities.

It is estimated that 1,000 unnecessary deaths are caused every year in Ireland by medical error. In March 2022, it was reported by the State Claims Agency that incidents can include wrong medications, wrong dosage and more serious incidents of alleged failures in care including delayed diagnosis. This is why it is important to monitor and improve patient safety in order to avoid incidents that can cause harm to patients.

How Servisource Can Help

Temporary work at Servisource has a wealth of benefits such as flexibility and a good work/life balance.

It includes access to a variety of experiences in different medical care settings that expands different skill sets, creating job satisfaction for employees and less stress.

Servisource operate regionally, nationally, and globally, providing access to people in the right place. We can supply temporary staff at short notice regardless of where you are based, providing relief for full-time staff and therefore reducing the possibility of burn out.

Servisource employs staff living locally to serve our communities and businesses. This eliminates the need for long-distance travel, reducing the risk of fatigue and ensuring that when a staff member is booked, they are fully equipped to be by the patients’ side when needed.

Increased risk of mental health issues

When working in this sector, the impact on mental health can be significant. A high workload, long hours, emotional exhaustion, exposure to trauma, and the demands of caring for patients who are seriously ill, can all contribute to ailing mental health and take a toll on even the most resilient individuals.

Healthcare professionals are often so focused on caring for others that they neglect their own well-being, leading to feelings of depression, anxiety, and hopelessness. It is vital to seek out support if needed and communicate in your workplace about any struggles you may be suffering from.

Mental health support for care workers is available from The HSE Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), a work-based support service for staff.

Services provided by the EAP programme:

If you are experiencing mental health symptoms, it is important to seek support from colleagues, family members, or a mental health professional. When medical organisations provide programmes and support systems to promote self-care and break the stigma surrounding mental health issues, it creates better health outcomes for everyone.

Working in the medical industry can be a rewarding and fulfilling career choice, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges. Workers are often so focused on caring for others that they neglect their own wellbeing, which leads to the above mental and physical issues. If you are a healthcare worker experiencing any of these, it is important to prioritise your own wellbeing and seek support. Servisource temp workers can relieve some of that pressure, leading to better health outcomes for all involved.

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