Patient Care Assistant

What You Will Do

• Provides patient care by performing assigned tasks for patient care plan implementation.
• Carries out routine nursing care measures as delegated.
• Takes and records patient’s vital signs, including temperature, pulse, blood pressure, and respiration.
• Prepares and forwards specimens (urine, stool, and sputum).
• Maintains records of fluid intake and output.
• Delivers activities of daily living such as hygiene, nutrition, elimination, and progressive activity.
• Observes and reports patient’s response to interventions/treatment.
• Completes all documentation requirements in a timely manner.
• Provides one-on-one care to patients requiring close observation and monitoring.
• Obtains medical and lab records.
• Communicates unit activities, needs, and problems to appropriate staff regarding patient care.
• Follows-up with patients as required.
• Performs other procedures specific to clinical area.
• Performs diagnostic EKGs as required.
• Administers EKG exams, observing patient, EKG tracings, and equipment, recognizing and reporting abnormal reactions, events, or technically inadequate results.
• Ensures accurate documentation in performing and processing all procedures including proper ordering, charging, and computer entry.
• Collects specimens and performs phlebotomy functions efficiently with a minimum of discomfort to patient, differentiating stat requests from routine samples.
• Performs venipuncture and skin puncture utilizing the appropriate procedure, technique, and materials for each test ordered.
• Obtains blood/specimen and performs various screening tests as ordered for diagnostic testing.
• Collects venous, capillary, and micro specimens from patients.
• Calms and reassures patients/significant others who are anxious or apprehensive about having blood specimen withdrawn; explains why specimen is needed in order to elicit cooperation.
• Prepares and transports specimens and test requests to appropriate laboratories.
• Interacts and communicates in a customer-responsive and courteous manner in compliance with iRESPECT standards and promoting patient/customer satisfaction.
• Works collaboratively with medical/hospital staff and patients to coordinate and implement patient care activities.
• Performs clerical duties such as answering telephone, responding to call signal, filing/assembling charts, completing tab sets, transcribing orders, and scheduling tests.
• Prepares and maintains required records, reports, and files for administrative and compliance purposes.
• Maintains patient medical records; documents patient status and care given; performs charting duties; records activities and observations.
• Utilizes patient computer systems to enter and retrieve data.
• Lifts, positions, and transports patients utilizing proper technique and equipment.
• Accompanies and remains with patient for clinical test or procedures in other departments/areas.
• Transports charts, specimens, equipment, and supplies.
• Maintains confidentiality in matters relating to patient/family, department, and hospital information.
• Adheres to established department and organization policies (i.e. HIPAA, Confidentiality, and Compliance Policies).
• Responds appropriately to emergency situations and notifies appropriate personnel.
• Completes required continuous training and education, including department specific requirements.
• Attends staff meetings, all mandatory in-service, and additional continuing education as required.
• Responds to problems/opportunities to improve care.
• Supports and participates in the organization’s Performance Improvement initiatives.
• Assists with care and maintenance of department equipment and utilizes supplies in a cost-effective manner.
• Assists with cleaning, restocking, and preparation of patient care and supply areas/rooms (includes supplies, equipment, beds).
• Reports malfunction of equipment to supervisor.
• Maintains a clean, orderly, safe environment for patients and personnel.
• Adheres to established policies, compliance/quality improvement with consideration given to risk management, infection control, and patient safety practices.
• Collaborates with forensic team and law enforcement officials as it relates to the care of inmates and arrestees in order to maintain a safe and secure environment at all times.
• Provides coverage for relief and absences as required.
• Performs other duties and responsibilities as required.

Qualifications

(Note: Specific qualifications may vary based on location and department)