Patient Care Associate (PCA) - PRN

Mercy Cassville | PRN (As Needed) | Rotating Shifts

Mercy is seeking a compassionate and dependable Patient Care Associate (PCA) to join our team at Mercy Cassville. Working under the direction of a Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), the PCA plays a vital role in supporting patient care, promoting safety, and helping patients achieve their highest level of wellness. This position is ideal for individuals who enjoy working in a fast-paced healthcare environment and are passionate about delivering exceptional patient-centered care.

Position Summary

The Patient Care Associate provides direct patient care and non-clinical support services while collaborating with the healthcare team to ensure quality patient outcomes. Responsibilities include assisting with activities of daily living, monitoring patient status, documenting care, supporting admissions and discharges, and maintaining a safe, compassionate environment for patients and families.

Key Responsibilities

Patient Care & Support

• Assist patients with personal hygiene and daily care activities.
• Support ambulation, repositioning, and mobility needs to promote comfort and prevent complications.
• Assist with feeding and ensure dietary needs are met, including intake documentation when appropriate.
• Observe for signs of skin breakdown and utilize appropriate supplies to provide preventive and supportive care.
• Participate in patient admissions, transfers, and discharges, including management of patient belongings.
• Assist with specimen collection and point-of-care testing as determined by department needs, such as glucose monitoring.
• Monitor patient condition and promptly report changes or concerns to the appropriate clinical staff.

Documentation & Administrative Support

• Gather and record patient information, including vital signs and other assigned observations, in the Electronic Medical Record (EMR).
• Maintain accurate, timely, and organized documentation.
• Assist with chart preparation and management for patient admissions, discharges, and transfers.
• Complete charge reconciliation processes and ensure services are documented appropriately.
• Perform clerical duties as needed, including answering phones, monitoring call lights, and supporting unit operations.

Teamwork & Communication

• Collaborate effectively with nurses, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to ensure coordinated patient care.
• Demonstrate sound clinical judgment and effective time management skills.
• Accept delegated responsibilities while practicing within established scope and competency requirements.
• Maintain flexibility regarding assignments, staffing needs, and changing priorities.
• Participate as a positive, engaged member of the healthcare team.

Safety & Quality

• Follow Mercy policies and procedures related to patient safety, confidentiality, and patient rights.
• Demonstrate knowledge of and adherence to infection prevention and control practices.
• Maintain a safe environment through proper patient identification, fall prevention measures, restraint management, safe patient handling practices, and department-specific safety protocols.
• Participate in quality improvement initiatives designed to enhance patient care and safety outcomes.
• Maintain compliance with all required certifications, competencies, and assigned learning modules.

Technology

• Utilize department-specific technology and communication tools, including:
  • Electronic Medical Records (EMR)
  • Computers and mobile devices
  • Pagers and zone phones
  • Rover and other unit-specific systems
• Ensure accurate and efficient documentation and communication through available technology platforms.

Qualifications

Required Education

One of the following:

• High school diploma or GED
• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Certified Patient Care Technician credential
• Enrollment in a healthcare career program through a high school curriculum
• Current Mercy co-worker

Required Experience

• No prior experience required.

Required Training

• In states where applicable, candidates without previous experience will complete Mercy's 175-hour training program that meets Department of Health and Senior Services requirements.
• Training is completed during new hire orientation and must be successfully completed within 90 days of hire to remain in the PCA role, in accordance with state guidelines.

Required Certifications

• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification within one month of hire.
• Completion of PCA competency requirements within three months of hire.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification.
• Previous healthcare or patient care experience.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to regularly push, pull, and lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the shift.
• Ability to bend, kneel, squat, twist, reach, grip, and perform other physical movements required to assist patients safely.

Why Mercy?

At Mercy, you'll be part of a mission-driven organization committed to delivering exceptional care with compassion, dignity, and respect. We invest in our co-workers through training, development opportunities, and a supportive team environment where every role makes a difference.

Join the team at Mercy Cassville and help provide outstanding care that positively impacts the lives of our patients and community every day.