Patient Care Associate - Orthopedics

About the role

Under the direction of the RN or LPN, assists in the individualized care of the patient to achieve the patient’s highest level of wellness. Works cooperatively with others as part of a team; recognizes the importance of group goals. Performs designated clinical procedures and non-clinical support tasks essential to providing care to the patient.

About the Unit – Orthopedics

The Orthopedics unit specializes in the care of postoperative patients following elective knee and hip replacements, spine procedures (neck and back), and foot/ankle surgeries. Nurses and PCAs on this unit develop strong skills in mobility assistance, pain management, orthopedic monitoring, and rehabilitation-focused patient care.

Location: Mercy Hospital South - 10010 Kennerly Rd, St. Louis, MO 63128

Schedule

• Part-Time | 24 hours/week
• Full-Time | 36 hours/week

• Day Shift | 6:30 AM – 7:00 PM
• Night Shift | 6:30 PM – 7:00 AM

Pay

Sign-On Bonus (24+ hours/week) – No Contract Required!

• Day Shift: $1,000 (paid in three installments: $250 at 90 days, $250 at 6 months, $500 at 12 months)
• Night Shift: $3,000 (paid in three installments: $750 at 90 days, $750 at 6 months, $1,500 at 12 months)

Qualifications

Education: High school diploma, GED, CNA/CPTC certification, or enrollment in a healthcare career program through high school. Current Mercy co-workers are also eligible.

Experience: No prior experience required.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to push, pull, and lift up to 50 lbs. regularly
• Prolonged standing and walking during shifts
• Ability to grip, reach, bend, kneel, twist, and squat to perform duties

Certifications:

• Basic Life Support (BLS) required within one month of hire
• Completion of PCA competencies within three months of hire

Responsibilities

As a Patient Care Associate (PCA):

• Record vital signs and enter data into the electronic medical record
• Assist patients with daily needs (meals, bathing, toileting, mobility, transportation)
• Provide clerical support as needed

As a Patient Care Technician (PCT): Includes all PCA responsibilities, plus:

• Perform phlebotomy and collect blood cultures
• Administer enteral feedings
• Provide wound care
• Remove IVs and Foley catheters
• Perform tracheostomy care and suctioning

Training & Development

Mercy’s PCA training program is an accredited Department of Labor Apprenticeship, offering hands-on experience and valuable credentials in a supportive healthcare environment.

If you have no prior experience, Mercy provides a 175-hour training program that meets Department of Health and Senior Services requirements. This must be completed within 90 days of hire.

Benefits

From day one, Mercy offers outstanding benefits for team members working 32+ hours per pay period, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Paid time off
• Tuition support
• Matched retirement plans

Join a caring, collaborative team where your voice matters. At Mercy, you'll help shape the future of healthcare through innovation, technology, and compassion.