Unit Clerk

About the role

The Unit Clerk supports hospital staff in maintaining an organized and functional nursing station, serving as the liaison between the nursing unit and administration. This role ensures smooth operations by managing communications, maintaining proper paperwork, and upholding patient care standards in accordance with Joint Commission, Federal, and State regulations, as well as Oceans' Mission and policies.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the receptionist for the hospital by answering phones quickly and accurately, directing calls to patients and staff.
• Assist clinical staff with community referrals and act as a liaison with the business and admitting offices during the admission process.
• Gather and route relevant descriptive and financial information to appropriate hospital personnel.
• Greet visitors, patients, and their families with an empathetic and helpful attitude.
• Complete nursing unit paperwork, including setting up and maintaining patient records, daily census and revenue forms, and assisting in monthly report preparation.
• Transcribe physician’s orders from patient records and update medical records with data such as blood pressure, pulse rate, and temperature.
• Record patient diagnoses on medical forms and prepare requisition forms for laboratory tests, drugs, and supplies.
• Coordinate patient transfers and process patient discharge forms.
• Transport patients and perform minor medical assisting tasks similar to those of nursing assistants.
• Perform other duties and projects as assigned.

Requirements

• High school graduate or equivalent preferred.
• At least 1 year of experience working with psychiatric patients in an inpatient setting desired.

Qualifications & Skills

• Ability to read, write, and follow verbal and written instructions.
• Experience working with diverse populations.
• Knowledge of age, disability, and cultural specifics to effectively communicate with specialized populations.
• Good physical and mental health, demonstrated by a warm, empathetic attitude and respect for the dignity and potential of clients.
• High sense of personal integrity.
• Ability to work under close supervision.
• Must successfully complete CPR certification and an Oceans-approved behavioral health de-escalation program.

Work Environment

• Subject to frequent interruptions and occasional pressure due to multiple calls and inquiries.
• High-paced and potentially stressful environment; must be able to cope mentally and physically.
• May experience disagreeable odors, sights, and unpredictable patient behavior.
• Spends approximately 90% or more of the time indoors, with protection from weather but not necessarily from temperature changes.