Patient Care Tech- Float Pool (Casual Call, Variable Shifts)

About the Role

The Patient Care Tech (PCT) in the Float Pool functions as a flexible team member supporting patient care across all inpatient units, the Telecompanion program, and additional outpatient areas. This position offers exposure to a variety of departments within Bozeman Health and includes responsibilities for patient safety, particularly for those at risk of self-injury due to physiologic, mental, or behavioral limitations.

The PCT performs complex personal patient care duties, supports diagnostic procedures, assists with technical nursing treatments, and participates in patient charting and instruction. Responsibilities may also include coordinating telemetry equipment, managing patient intake, scheduling appointments, and handling pre-authorizations in ambulatory settings.

Responsibilities

• Provide basic nursing care with dignity and respect, including assisting with patient physical needs and reporting observations to nursing staff.
• Document patient information such as vital signs, height, weight, and I&Os in the electronic health record.
• Perform hourly rounding on patients in conjunction with nursing staff.
• Ensure patient safety, particularly for those in the Telecompanion program deemed at risk for self-injury.
• Coordinate availability of telemetry transmitters, lead cables, and other monitoring supplies; apply electrocardiography leads.
• Conduct chart reviews, pre-visit planning, patient intake, and manage schedule tracking and referral reports in ambulatory settings.
• Schedule patient appointments, referrals, procedures, and lab tests; coordinate prescription assistance programs and pre-authorizations.
• Order necessary supplies and perform designated basic treatments and procedures specific to the work area.
• Complete competency assessments and training, including Safety Companion/TeleCompanion training where applicable.
• Utilize Standard Precautions in caring for all patients and maintain patient satisfaction.
• Perform additional role-appropriate skills following training and demonstrated competence.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent (required).
• American Heart Association BLS certification (required).
• Nurse Aide or Emergency Medical Technician certification (preferred).
• Prior work experience in healthcare (preferred).
• Prior education in or work experience with medical terminology (preferred).

Skills

• Sound judgment, patience, and professional demeanor at all times.
• Tact, discretion, sensitivity, and ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to perform essential job functions in a busy and stressful environment.
• Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Analytical and technical skills with attention to detail.
• Adaptability to change based on evidence-based practice.
• Ability to organize, prioritize work, and meet multiple deadlines.
• Proficiency in learning current and new computer applications and office equipment.

Schedule

This is a variable shift position requiring flexibility for both day and night shifts, including weekends and holidays. The role may necessitate working beyond a standard 40-hour workweek, and on-call work may be required to respond promptly to organizational, patient, or employee needs.

Physical Requirements

• Lifting (Repeatedly – 50 pounds): Exerting force occasionally to lift, carry, push, pull, or move objects or people.
• Sit (Occasionally): Maintaining a sitting posture for extended periods.
• Stand (Repeatedly): Maintaining a standing posture for extended periods.
• Walk (Repeatedly): Moving around within the work area.
• Climb (Rarely): Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, or ramps.
• Twist/Bend/Stoop/Kneel (Repeatedly): Flexibility and range of motion in the spine and joints.
• Reach Above Shoulder Level (Repeatedly): Lifting or carrying objects above shoulder level.
• Push/Pull (Repeatedly): Using upper extremities to exert steady force.
• Fine-Finger Movements (Continuously): Picking, pinching, typing, or working primarily with fingers.
• Vision (Continuously): Close visual acuity for data analysis, reading, and computer work.
• Cognitive Skills (Continuously): Learning new tasks, remembering processes, maintaining focus, and making timely decisions.

Exposures

• Bloodborne pathogens (e.g., blood, bodily fluids, or tissues).
• Radiation in settings where medical imaging procedures are performed.
• Chemicals and medications used in healthcare settings (e.g., cleaning products, disinfectants).
• Infectious diseases from contact with patients in areas with contagious illnesses.
• Emotionally challenging situations (e.g., distressed patients or difficult family interactions).

Frequency Key: Continuously (67-100% of the time), Repeatedly (33-66% of the time), Occasionally (4-32% of the time), Rarely (1-3% of the time).