Patient Care Assistant, Per Diem

About the role

The Patient Care Assistant assists with patient care under the direction of an RN, MD, PA, or NP. The PCA cares for all patients, including those in behavioral health, following provider instructions and hospital procedures. Actively monitors patients' physical and emotional well-being and reports to nursing or medical staff. Ensures a safe environment for patients and staff. Participates in rehabilitation and treatment programs and helps with personal hygiene and activities of daily living.

Responsibilities

• Observes patients to detect behavior patterns and reports observations to the medical/nursing staff and documents them in the electronic medical record.
• Uses de-escalation techniques to resolve issues with patient's behavior.
• Maintains therapeutic boundaries with patients and families.
• Intervenes to restrain violent or potential violent patients by verbal or physical means as required.
• Completes all documentation in a timely manner.
• Helps patients with their personal hygiene, such as bathing and keeping beds, clothing, and living areas clean.
• Documents vital signs and other pertinent observations in the electronic medical record.
• Intervenes to restrain violent or potential violent suicidal patients by verbal or physical means as required.
• Completes all documentation in a timely manner.

Qualifications

• Experience successfully using de-escalation techniques.
• Experience working with medically/mentally ill individuals.
• Experience working with pediatric patients and their families.
• Medical Assistant Certification, Certified Nursing Assistant Certification, or post-high school vocational/specialized medical training certificate, or in your first year of nursing school.
• Current American Health Association BLS certification.
• High school diploma or equivalent.