Patient Care Associate - Critical Care

Responsibilities

• Perform selected tasks and activities to obtain and report information to assist the nurse in the assessment, planning and evaluation of patient needs, treatment and response to treatment.
• Under the direction of the RN, perform selected patient related activities, diagnostic testing and therapeutic treatments which contribute to safe and efficient delivery of patient care.
• Utilize initiative to respond to patient needs, effectively communicating with other team members to provide excellent quality service.
• Order and maintain supplies/equipment within budget parameters.
• Ensure cost-effective utilization of resources within own control.
• Participate in staff meetings, attends in-services and maintains required general/unit/department specific competencies.
• Support and participate in the QI process.
• Observe the cardiac monitor. Print rhythm strips, perform measurement, identify and record patient’s rhythm pattern. Recognize and communicate any changes in patient data to RN and/or medical staff.
• Perform related duties as required.

Requirements

• Good oral and written communication and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of medical terminology.
• CPR certified.
• Ability to read and write English with a command of verbal English.
• Ability to work well and collaboratively with other members of the health care team.
• Ability to maintain patient confidentiality.
• Ability to work in a time-oriented environment including exposure to all patient elements i.e., blood borne pathogens, physical requirements include lifting and pulling of patients, pushing of stretchers, standing and walking.
• Maintain ability to be exposed to environmental hazards such as anesthetic gases or elements.
• Ability to meet the care needs of the patient populations served.
• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Successful completion of Certified Nursing Assistant Program required.
• Successful completion of WH Basic ECG Interpretation and Cardiac Monitoring Course for Monitor Watcher required.
• Successful completion of a formal training program to include direct patient care activities and technical procedures such as: EKG testing and Phlebotomy.
• Must have basic computer skills and ability to access internet and other programs applicable to Waterbury Hospital procedures.
• Perform automated functions that fall within job responsibility.