Advanced Patient Care Technician - Emergency Department

About the role

The Advanced Patient Care Technician (APCT) is responsible for quick reaction and competent care of patients with emergency situations that arrive at the hospital. The APCT monitors patients, collects information, documents data, and performs a variety of clinical and support tasks under the direction of physicians and nurses.

Responsibilities

• Monitor patients and document vital signs, fluid intake/output, and weight.
• Insert and remove peripheral intravenous therapy lines under direction.
• Perform blood collection, Foley catheter placements, wound care, and dressing changes.
• Apply plaster and fiberglass splints, casts, and traction devices.
• Perform bedside testing such as oximetry, glucometry, and other point-of-care tests.
• Operate and monitor patient monitoring systems specific to the unit.
• Ensure cleanliness of the unit, clean and store equipment, and empty sharps containers.
• Stock medical supplies and paper goods; inventory and process broken equipment.
• Assist physicians and nurses with procedures under their direction.
• Assure proper storage of E-cylinders (oxygen).
• Organize care to contribute to the overall quality of the team.
• Report pertinent patient information, such as changes in physical or mental status, to the nurse in a timely fashion.
• Provide personal care assistance, including bathing, dressing, oral hygiene, feeding, toileting, transferring, and ambulating.
• Reposition patients at least every two hours and apply protective devices to prevent skin breakdown.
• Maintain accurate patient records and charts, including property sheets for admitted or transferred patients.
• Ensure patient safety, use safety devices as needed, and prevent injury.
• Respond appropriately during emergency situations.
• Adhere to HIPAA guidelines for patient comfort, privacy, and confidentiality.
• Answer call lights promptly.
• Follow universal precautions and infection control standards.
• Carry out procedures according to hospital standards, policies, and procedures.
• Maintain a clean, uncluttered environment in patient rooms and on the unit.
• Anticipate and coordinate workload to maintain routines and supplies for patient care.
• Collect sputum, urine, and stool specimens according to hospital policy.
• Assist in post-mortem care according to hospital standards.
• Assist with monitoring of restraints under nurse supervision.
• Mentor and precept new staff, including orientation and training.
• Attend educational in-services and staff meetings regularly.

Requirements

• High School diploma or equivalent plus trade or vocational school in medical/surgical patient care.
• One year of EMT, CNA, or CMA experience preferred.
• Current BLS certification issued through the American Heart Association is required.
• Proof of EMT course completion or completion of the first level of nursing school required. Two years of experience as a CNA or CMA can substitute for course completion.
• De-escalation certification preferred.

Schedule

Multiple shifts available. Per Diem as needed (PRN).