Orderly

Orderly

An Orderly is a hospital attendant whose job consists of assisting medical staff, or in some cases, directly providing patient care. Their duties can range from basic patient care to more complex tasks, depending on their level of training and the needs of the hospital.

Duties and Responsibilities

Orderlies are often responsible for non-medical patient care, such as helping patients with meals, personal hygiene, and transportation within the hospital. They may also assist with basic medical procedures under the supervision of a nurse or doctor. In some cases, orderlies may be responsible for cleaning and maintaining hospital equipment and facilities.

Training and Qualifications

The qualifications required for an orderly can vary greatly depending on the hospital and the specific duties of the job. In some cases, a high school diploma and on-the-job training may be sufficient. However, some hospitals may require orderlies to have a certification in basic life support or other medical training.

History

The role of the orderly has evolved over time, from a position often filled by military personnel in the past to a civilian role that is an integral part of the modern healthcare team.

See Also

• Nursing assistant
• Medical assistant
• Healthcare occupations