Unit Secretary Health Unit Coordinator Cardiac Intermediate Part time Evenings

Placement within the salary range is dependent on several factors such as relevant work experience and internal equity. For positions represented by a labor union, placement is guided by the rules outlined in the collective bargaining agreement.

Pay

$17.05 - $25.58 hourly

Schedule

Part-time, 3:00 PM - 11:30 PM shift. Two 8-hour shifts per week with rotating weekends.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits providing tools and resources to improve physical, emotional, and financial well-being, including protection for unexpected life events (details)
• Flexible work options and a Reimbursable Well-Being Fund
• Total Rewards package supporting physical, mental, emotional, and financial well-being
• Training and development opportunities, mentorship programs, educational support, and student loan repayment
• Volunteer opportunities in local communities
• Workforce-led resource groups driving inclusive change

About the role

This position is on the CDH Cardiac Intermediate (3A) unit, a 26-bed cardiac step-down unit within Northwestern Medicine’s prestigious Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute (BCVI). The unit provides advanced cardiac care in a suburban setting, serving patients with a variety of cardiovascular diagnoses, including post-cardiac surgeries and procedures.

The Health Unit Coordinator reflects the mission, vision, and values of NM, adheres to the organization’s Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines, and regulatory/accreditation standards. The role involves unit-based reception, clerical, medical record, and patient registration functions, with a focus on setting priorities and handling emergency situations calmly. The coordinator serves as a liaison between patient care units and other departments, managing overall unit workflow in collaboration with the charge RN and/or assistant manager.

Responsibilities

• Present a friendly, approachable, professional demeanor and appearance.
• Provide accurate information and timely updates to patients and customers; address questions and concerns promptly or direct them to the appropriate person/resources.
• Provide directions and assistance to patients and customers.
• Use effective service recovery skills to resolve problems or service breakdowns.
• Demonstrate teamwork by assisting co-workers within and across departments.
• Communicate effectively, respect diverse opinions/styles, and acknowledge contributions of others.
• Use organizational and unit/department resources efficiently; manage work schedule to complete tasks on time.
• Contribute to continuous improvement opportunities and processes.
• Participate in cost-reduction efforts, workflow streamlining, and service improvement/growth.
• Coordinate work with the Manager and Charge Nurse; communicate clearly with co-workers and physicians.
• Consult other departments to provide an interdisciplinary approach to patient needs.
• Retrieve lab results from the computer and bring them to the attention of the nurse caring for the patient.
• Interact professionally with patients/families, providing explanations and verbal reassurance as needed.
• Prepare medical records for new admissions; disassemble charts and forward to Medical Records upon discharge.
• Maintain proper record assembly contents in chronological order behind tabs; obtain necessary signatures and documents.
• Understand the Petition and Certificate process for Involuntary Admissions.
• Transcribe and clarify handwritten physician orders and clinical data accurately.
• Enter and verify orders in the computer to ensure timely and accurate delivery of medications, supplies, and diagnostic/therapeutic tests/services.
• Seek and obtain learning opportunities; participate in professional growth and development activities.
• Share knowledge from continuing education programs with co-workers.
• Demonstrate computer competence for order entry, results, documentation, and policies.
• Manage and operate equipment safely and correctly.
• Demonstrate flexibility, organization, and the ability to function under stressful situations.
• Demonstrate confidence and success with multiple, high-level, time-sensitive tasks.
• Answer telephones, monitor unit closed-circuit camera, and intercom/door entry system; communicate information politely to appropriate staff/family.
• Utilize critical thinking to prioritize and complete unit work quickly as needs change.
• Monitor patient type in the computer against actual status and make corrections when necessary.
• Perform pre-census and validate daily admission, discharge, and census lists.
• Register patients in the computer.
• Conduct telephone screenings (inquiry calls) to determine appropriate disposition.
• Observe patient confidentiality rules and Release of Information data.
• Order supplies and print forms used for patient charts.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent
• Basic computer knowledge
• Ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing
• Ability to assess and determine situations requiring an interpreter and use interpreter services effectively
• Excellent customer service skills

Qualifications

Preferred: One year of experience in a pertinent clinical specialty.