Patient Care Technician

Patient Care Technician

Daily activities are coordinated by the Registered Nurse (RN). The PCT will perform a variety of technical tasks and bedside functions. Responsibilities include but are not limited to Direct Patient care; hygiene, skin care, mobility, and monitoring. Will have multi-skills for what is needed on the unit, to perform all duties relative to phlebotomy and EKGs. The PCT is expected to manage equipment and perform or assist in all procedures on the unit. The incumbent is expected to perform other similar and related duties as assigned.

Job Responsibilities:

• Provides age-appropriate care to patients.
• Demonstrates knowledge of developmental stages for the following age groups and applies developmental theories and concepts when implementing care for patients.
• Monitors basic physiological parameters.
• Takes and records routine vital signs within the specified timeframe as indicated by periodic review of documentation. Obtains and documents weights/heights, abdominal girths, and head circumference (Pediatric Service) as per physician/nurse order 100% of the time as indicated by quarterly review of 5 records. Consistently reports any significant deviations in vital signs as outlined in the procedure immediately. Records and reports, 100% of the time, any change in the patient's normal drainage pattern, i.e. gastric, wound, blood.
• Administers treatments and procedures per BMC policy/procedure.
• Changes dressings within one hour of the specified timeframe per established procedure. Provides post-mortem care as directed by RN according to Baystate Healths policy.
• Performs all procedures outlined in the nursing procedure manual within the area of responsibility per specifications. Assists physicians with exams and simple procedures. Assures the identity of the patient by checking the identification bracelet and identification band before performing any procedure.
• Assists patients with the elimination of body wastes.
• Makes available or offers bedpan, urinal, and emesis basin immediately after patient request as indicated by the absence of patient complaints.
• Accurately labels and sends specimens of urine, feces, and sputum within 30 minutes of the specified time frame unless discussed with RN as evidenced by random review of reports. Accurately measures and records intake and output per established policy as indicated by random review of intake and output forms. Administers enemas or Harris Drips as ordered per the established procedure as observed.
• Performs Point of Care (POC) Testing
• Assist in the delivery of ancillary services as directed. Assists with treatment by following specified treatment plans developed for individual patients. Monitors patient's condition during treatment and notifies appropriate personnel of unexpected occurrences. Provides information to RN based upon an observation made during patient-related care. Provides treatment within the specified time frame. Documents treatments and activities consistently
• Communicates effectively with team and patients. Interacts with patients in a respectful and informative manner. Clearly communicates information related to patient care to the team. Recognizes culturally based patient and family needs.
• Is knowledgeable of and initiates emergency procedures. Responds effectively in emergency situations as observed. Maintains Patient safety at all times. Communicates effectively with appropriate personnel.
• Functions as a member of the team
• Assists team members with clinical activities. Provides feedback related to the team process. Assists team members with non-clinical activities.
• Competencies and completion and maintenance of clinical recognition program for career ladder level.
• Demonstrates competency for one-to-one observation of patients based on department and unit-specific needs.

Qualifications:

This position is part of a career ladder and hiring level determined by Recruitment.

Level I:

Preferred experience: PCT training or CNA training preferred

Level II:

Required Work Experience: At least one year of patient care experience (this experience can vary in level of long-term care, specialty, acute care, etc.).

Level III:

High School diploma or GED

Required work experience: Three or more years of patient care experience (this experience can vary in level of long-term care, specialty, acute care, etc.) experience OR at least one year as a level II PCT at Baystate Health

C.N.A. preferred

Level IV:

High School Diploma or GED

Required work experience: 4 or more years of Acute or specialty-specific care setting experience OR at least one year as a level III PCT at Baystate Health

C.N.A. preferred

Skills and Competencies:

Proficient in reading and writing in English

Able to maintain professional composure in medium to high-stress situations

Effective communication skills