Care Companion

Patient Care Companion

Major Responsibilities: Ensures a secure and safe environment by maintaining a continued awareness of safety hazards and observation of the patient. Follows established policies and procedures for precautions, emergency plans and codes. Accompanies assigned patient at all times, provides general patient care duties, and responds to call lights. Performs tasks related to meeting the nutritional needs of the patient. Maintains patient confidentiality, communicates with patients, families, and other health professionals in a positive and respectful manner, and supports patient/family teaching. Contributes to the patient plan of care through the documentation of communication of patient needs and outcomes to the health care provider as appropriate. Demonstrates ability to respond to emergency situations, maintains and develops technical skills, and practices within the policies and procedures of infection control.

Education/Experience Required: High school diploma or GED equivalent. Current CPR.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required: Good communication skills. Courteous and professional interpersonal skills. Highly compassionate. Basic reading skills.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions: Ability to demonstrate a commitment to patient-focused care. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with established time constraints and in difficult situations. May be exposed to hazardous materials and life-threatening diseases. Ability to perform lifting/transfer activities related to patients (up to 50 lbs. may be required). Ability to work designated shifts including weekends and holidays. Ability to transport objects from one location to another. This position needs to recognize needs and behaviors of specific age groups of patients treated. Ability to lift up to 35 pounds without assistance. For patient lifts of over 35 pounds, or when patient is unable to assist with the lift, patient handling equipment is expected to be used, with at least one other associate, when available. Unique patient lifting/movement situations will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.