There has been an increase in health-related job opportunities due to the COVID-19 pandemic. These job opportunities depending on the country can offer good benefits and some excellent salaries. Today, we will talk about a Caregiver job, responsibilities, skills needed and salaries Caregivers get in the US and the UK.
What is a Caregiver?
Caregivers are individuals employed to look after sick people in a compassionate manner. It is a demanding job, but can be very rewarding depending on the client one works for. Caregivers are usually in high demand as there are many elderly, disabled, and sick people around. Caregivers jobs could be full-time or part-time depending on the severity of the situation.
Duties and responsibilities of a caregiver
A caregiver is expected to perform certain tasks like :
- Personal care assistance: a caregiver is expected to help with basic functions like cleaning, sweeping, and eating. This must be done following the best health practices and given the situation of the client.
- Follow a prescribed medical plan: this includes helping with regular exercises, administration of drugs, and ensuring that the client’s nutrition consists of a balanced diet.
- Offer emotional support: a caregiver is expected to provide emotional assistance to the client when performing regular exercise. Regular encouragement should be offered which will make calm the client.
Required skills needed for a caregiver job
There is a plethora of skills needed to succeed in a caregiver position, they are:
- Patience: this is very important because the clients might be the troublesome or apprehensive type. The caregiver needs to be very patient in handling the regular complaints of this ill or elderly people.
- Good communication skills: a caregiver is expected to be able to give clear and crisp instructions to the client. This must be done politely taking into consideration the age and health situation of the client.
Ability to use first-aid devices
A caregiver should have adequate knowledge of CPR and emergency aids in case of urgencies. This is necessary to make the client stable before transferring to the hospital.
Education and certifications needed for a caregiver job
Usually, secondary education may not be needed, however, having a high school diploma or equivalent gives an applicant an edge over others. However, some clients require caregivers to have nursing degrees, or certificates in Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN). Others prefer a diploma in health assistance or paramedic service.
Those without degrees or nursing certifications can get technical training in Health observation and physical therapy. Fresh caregivers should strive to have certifications in certified nursing assistant (CNA) or equivalent. You should also possess a valid driver’s license.
How much does a caregiver earn in the United States?
Caregivers in the US earn an hourly rate of about $11.25 for entry-level positions. Those with some experience could earn about $15.78 per hour, while top-level caregivers earn as high as $17.90 per hour. Key considerations are also if it’s a live-in caregiver or part-time.
Caregiver’s salary in the United Kingdom
A new caregiver with less than 9 months can expect to get an average wage of £7.85 per hour which includes tips overtime and other bonuses. Mid-career caregivers could earn about £8.35, while those with about 10 years’ worth of experience get an average rate of £9.20 per hour.
Caregivers are important positions that are regularly been sought after in western countries. To be qualified for the job and get good salaries, get necessary certifications and training.
