Assistants in nursing deal with senior medical staff, patients and their families on a daily basis and therefore require effective communication skills. They need to be discrete, diplomatic and compassionate, especially as they have to assist patients with functions such as bathing and toileting. Nursing is not a career for someone who is squeamish – they must be able to be around blood and other bodily fluids. This can be a physically demanding role requiring a lot of time spent on one’s feet. Being able to cope with shift work, including nights, weekends and holidays is important.