Patient Care Technician

Patient Care Technician (PCT)

The Patient Care Technician (PCT) provides direct patient care and support under the supervision of a Registered Nurse on the Stroke (CVA) Unit. The PCT plays a vital role in supporting patient safety, mobility, dignity, and rehabilitation goals for patients recovering from stroke and other neurological conditions. This role requires strong teamwork, attention to detail, and a compassionate approach to patient-centered care.

Principal Responsibilities and Tasks:

• Assists patients with activities of daily living (ADLs) including bathing, toileting, grooming, feeding, and mobility while promoting patient independence
• Obtains and documents vital signs, intake/output, weights, and blood glucose monitoring per unit protocol
• Provides safe patient handling, transfers, positioning, and ambulation support in collaboration with nursing and therapy teams
• Observes and reports changes in patient condition, behavior, or functional status to the Registered Nurse promptly
• Supports fall prevention, skin integrity, and infection prevention initiatives
• Assists with patient transport to therapy sessions, diagnostics, and other unit needs
• Maintains a clean, safe, and organized patient care environment
• Demonstrates proper use of equipment, including gait belts, lifts, and mobility devices
• Participates in de-escalation and safety procedures as needed to maintain a safe unit environment
• Provides emotional support to patients and families with professionalism and respect
• Completes assigned documentation accurately and in a timely manner
• Collaborates effectively with an interdisciplinary rehabilitation team to support patient recovery goals
• Adheres to UMMS policies, patient privacy standards (HIPAA), and safety regulations
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Education & Experience:

1. High school diploma or equivalent required.
2. Current Maryland state certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Geriatric Nursing Assistant (GNA) required.
3. One (1) year of previous experience preferred.
4. Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

1. Able to effectively communicate using verbal and written skills.
2. Maintain interpersonal relationships and use teamwork skills to provide care along with other team members in a cohesive manner.
3. Ability to organize work priorities, perform several duties simultaneously and function in stressful situations.
4. Ability to learn and use computer systems.
5. Demonstrates proper technique and skills needed for obtaining accurate blood glucose results and documenting findings.
6. Demonstrates the ability to perform delegated nursing tasks according to the age, culture, ethnicity, spirituality, and individual diagnostic needs of the persons served.
7. Demonstrates knowledge, practice and accountability for skills or procedures that require aseptic technique.