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What does a Unit Assistant do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A unit assistant is a health care worker who helps nurses and doctors with patient care. They may take vital signs, give patients baths, and help with meals.

Unit Assistant job duties include:

  • Answer phone calls and take messages
  • Greet visitors and direct them to the appropriate staff member
  • Perform clerical duties such as filing, photocopying, and faxing
  • Schedule appointments and maintain calendars
  • Arrange for meeting rooms and equipment
  • Prepare and distribute meeting minutes
  • Monitor and order office supplies
  • Update and maintain contact lists
  • Process incoming and outgoing mail

Unit Assistant Job Requirements

There are no formal education requirements for a Unit Assistant, but most have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Certification is not required, but many employers prefer candidates who have completed a certified nursing assistant (CNA) program. Unit Assistants must have prior experience working in a healthcare setting. They must be able to lift and move patients, as well as work long hours on their feet.

Unit Assistant Skills

  • Patient care
  • Vital signs
  • Phlebotomy
  • EKG
  • Injections
  • Medication administration
  • Patient education
  • Charting
  • Patient transportation
  • Unit maintenance
  • Supply management

Related: Top Unit Assistant Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Unit Assistant

A Unit Assistant is a vital member of the healthcare team who provides support to nurses and other medical staff. As a Unit Assistant, you will be responsible for a variety of tasks such as stocking supplies, transporting patients, and providing emotional support to families. If you are interested in becoming a Unit Assistant, here are a few things you need to know.

First, it is important to have a high school diploma or equivalent. Many Unit Assistants have some college experience, but it is not required. You will also need to complete a certification program which can vary in length depending on the state you live in. Once you have completed your education and training, you will be able to sit for the national certification exam.

Unit Assistants must be able to handle a fast-paced environment and have excellent communication skills. They must be able to work well under pressure and be able to take direction from multiple people. In addition, Unit Assistants must be compassionate and caring individuals who are able to provide emotional support to patients and families.

If you are interested in becoming a Unit Assistant, there are many opportunities available. You can find positions in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and home health agencies. With the aging population, the demand for Unit Assistants is expected to grow in the coming years. This is an exciting time to enter the healthcare field, and as a Unit Assistant, you can make a difference in the lives of others.

Related: Unit Assistant Resume Example

Related: Unit Assistant Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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