Patient Care Assistant

Assists staff by performing patient care activities, EKG, phlebotomy, clerical and other activities required to meet the needs of patients and in compliance with established policies and procedures. Assists with special procedures and examinations. What You Will Do Provides patient care by performing assigned tasks for patient care plan implementation by: Contributing information in day to day management of patient care. Carrying out routine nursing care measures as delegated. Work performed evidences completion of tasks as shown in patient outcomes, documentation and/or completed work. Takes and records patient’s vital signs. Taking and recording temperature, pulse, blood pressure and respiration. Prepares and forwards specimens (urine, stool and sputum). Delivers activities of daily living such as hygiene, nutrition, elimination and progressive activity. Maintains records of fluid intake and output. Provides measures of comfort and convenience (i.e., water, blankets, etc.). Observes and reports patient’s response to interventions/treatment. Completes all documentation requirements in a timely manner. Provides one-on-one to patients requiring close observation and monitoring (sitter) to ensure their safety and prevention of injury. Obtains medical and lab records. Communicates unit activities, needs and problems to appropriate staff regarding patient care. Follows-up with patients as required. Performs other procedures specific to clinical area. Demonstrates knowledge and skills to provide care, maintains clinical competency and meets age-specific patient needs in a caring, compassionate, and sensitive manner. Performs diagnostic EKGs as required. Informs and explains EKG test purposes and procedures to the patient prior to commencement of testing Determines proper placement and attaches electrodes to specified areas of patient's body appropriately utilizing EKG equipment. Administers EKG exam, and observes patient, EKG tracings and equipment recognizing and reporting abnormal reactions, events or technically inadequate results. Ensures accurate documentation in performing and processing all procedures including proper ordering, charging, and computer entry. Collects specimens and performs phlebotomy functions efficiently with a minimum of discomfort to patient, differentiating stat requests from routine samples. Performs venipuncture and skin puncture utilizing the appropriate procedure, technique and materials for each test ordered. Obtains blood/specimen and performs various screening tests as ordered for diagnostic testing. Collects venous, capillary and micro specimens from patients. Calms and reassures patients/significant other who are anxious or apprehensive about having blood specimen withdrawn; explains why specimen is needed in order to elicit cooperation. Prepares and transports specimens and test requests to appropriate laboratories. Interacts and communicates in a customer responsiveness and courteous manner in compliance with iRESPECT standards and promoting patient/customer satisfaction. Works collaboratively with medical/hospital staff and patients to coordinate and implement patient care activities. Performs clerical duties such as answering telephone, responding to call signal, filing/assembling charts, completing tab sets, transcribing orders and scheduling tests. Prepares and maintains required records, reports and files for administrative and compliance purposes. Maintains patient medical records; documents patient status and care given; performs charting duties; records activities and observations. Utilizes patient computer systems to enter and retrieve data. Lifts, positions and transports patients utilizing proper technique and equipment. Accompanies and remains with patient for clinical test or procedures in other departments/areas. Transports charts, specimens, equipment and supplies. Maintains confidentiality in matters relating to patient/family, department and hospital information. Adheres to established department and organization policies (i.e. HIPAA, Confidentiality, and Compliance Policies). Responds appropriately to emergency situations and notifies appropriate personnel. Completes required continuous training and education, including department specific requirements. Attends staff meetings, all mandatory in-service and additional continuing education as required. Responds to problems/opportunities to improve care. Supports and participates in the organization’s Performance Improvement initiatives. Assists with care and maintenance of department equipment and utilizes supplies in a cost effective manner. Assists with cleaning, restocking and preparation of patient care and supply areas/rooms (includes supplies, equipment, beds). Reports malfunction of equipment to supervisor. Maintains a clean, orderly, safe environment for patients and personnel. Adheres to established policies, compliance/quality improvement with consideration given to risk management, infection control and patient safety practices. Collaborates with forensic team and law enforcement officials as it relates to the care of inmates and arrestees in order to maintain a safe and secure environment at all times. Provides coverage for relief and absences as required. Performs other duties and responsibilities as required. #J-18808-Ljbffr