PATIENT CARE TECH

Description

POSITION SUMMARY

The Patient Care Technician (PCT) works under the direct supervision of the Registered Nurse to assist with basic patient care, patient comfort, and daily activities. The PCT supports nursing staff by performing patient care duties, assisting with unit operations, and maintaining a safe and clean environment for patients, visitors, and staff. Training will be provided on the job.

Requirements

RESPONSIBILITIES

1) Patient Care Duties

Under the supervision of the charge nurse, assist with patient care, comfort, and personal hygiene, including:

1. Introduce new patients to the floor, orient patients to the room and unit, and assist with obtaining necessary paperwork and consents.
2. Monitor vital signs as ordered by the provider and graph on chart.
3. Serve meals, assist with feeding as necessary. Ensure water pitchers are filled.
4. Assist with patient bathing and toileting functions as needed.
5. Assist with patient comfort measures including repositioning and mobility.
6. Participate in activities with patients as directed to support psychosocial needs.
7. Track and record intake and output (I&O).
8. Report changes in patient condition to the nursing staff promptly.

2) Housekeeping and Unit Support

Assist with housekeeping and cleaning duties by:

1. Changing patient bedding as needed.
2. Keep patient rooms tidy and organized.
3. Transporting soiled linens to laundry while following all biohazard guidelines.
4. Emptying patient and nursing department trash at the end of each shift.
5. Clean emergency room, delivery room and instruments after use as directed.
6. Clean refrigerators and freezers as needed.
7. Check temperatures on freezer and refrigerator daily.
8. Performing other duties as assigned when needs arise.

3) Clerical Functions

1. Complete dietary sheets.
2. Maintain accurate patient census records.
3. Copy all daily charges, ER charges and medication administration records at end of each 24-hour period.
4. Assist RN in preparing charts for admission.
5. Record emergency room visits in the log.
6. Answer and direct phone calls as appropriate.

4) Central Supply

1. Restock frequently used supplies.
2. Follow established guidelines for Central Supply and equipment handling.

5) Professional Conduct

1. Maintain a professional public image and attitude toward patients, visitors, and staff always.
2. Maintain patient confidentiality.
3. Demonstrate the ability to be a team member.
4. Accept direction from supervisors and nursing staff.
5. Demonstrate willingness to accept constructive feedback.

DEGREE OF LATITUDE

Works under the direct supervision of the charge nurse, often with explicit instructions.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Work is conducted in clean, well-lit patient care areas. The position may involve frequent exposure to communicable diseases, biologic hazards, and unpleasant patient activities. Physical demands include bending, stooping, moving patients, pushing or pulling equipment.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

Education

Minimum high school diploma or equivalent.

Licenses, Certifications or Registrations

Must maintain current licensure in the State of Kansas as a certified nurse aide.

Must maintain current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification or obtain within a timeframe established by Stanton County Hospital.

Training

The Patient Care Technician will participate in hospital orientation and department-specific training. Required job skills and patient care tasks will be learned through structured on-the-job training and competency validation. The employee must demonstrate competency prior to independently performing assigned duties, with competencies evaluated and documented according to hospital policy.

Special Knowledge or Skills

Requires strong interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to follow directions from nursing staff.

Additional Desirable Qualifications

Previous healthcare or patient care experience is preferred but not required.