Patient Care Technician- Acute Care for Elders

Patient Care Technician

Location: Baystate Medical Center Springfield, MA

Department: Daly 6A Acute Care for the Elderly

Shift: Days

Hours: 24 hours/week

Schedule Requirement: Every other weekend and holiday required

Certifications Required: American Heart Association BLS (CPR)

A resume is required to fully evaluate experience.

Join a Leading Healthcare Team at Baystate Health

Baystate Medical Center, a nationally recognized leader in patient safety and quality, is seeking a Patient Care Technician (PCT) to join our dedicated team in the Acute Care for the Elderly Unit on Daly 6A.

Baystate Health is the region's only academic medical center and the leading tertiary care provider in western Massachusetts. Our team is committed to excellence, equity, and innovation in care. We value diversity, compassion, and collaboration, and provide a supportive environment where employees can grow and thrive in their careers.

Position Summary

Under the daily direction of a Registered Nurse (RN), the Patient Care Technician provides direct patient care and supports the clinical team in delivering high-quality, compassionate care. This role includes a variety of bedside responsibilities and technical tasks, including phlebotomy and EKGs. The PCT is expected to manage equipment, assist with procedures, and perform related duties as assigned.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver Direct Patient Care: Provide hygiene, mobility support, skin care, and personal assistance tailored to the specific needs of elderly patients.
• Monitor and Document Vital Signs: Accurately record temperature, blood pressure, pulse, and other basic physiological parameters. Report any significant changes promptly.
• Support Treatments and Procedures: Perform or assist with procedures as directed, including dressing changes, post-mortem care, and physician-supported exams. Ensure proper patient identification prior to all interventions.
• Assist with Elimination Needs: Promptly provide access to or assist with bedpans, urinals, and emesis basins. Accurately label and send urine, stool, and sputum specimens within established timeframes.
• Point of Care Testing: Conduct and document POC testing as required. Monitor patient response and notify appropriate personnel of any concerns.
• Collaborate with the Care Team: Communicate observations and patient needs clearly to RNs and other team members. Foster a respectful, culturally sensitive environment.
• Respond to Emergencies: Act quickly and appropriately in emergency situations. Maintain constant awareness of patient safety protocols.
• Team Contribution: Actively participate in both clinical and non-clinical team functions. Support unit efficiency and contribute to a positive, team-oriented work culture.
• Special Assignments: Demonstrate competency in one-to-one patient observation and support department-specific care needs.

Qualifications

This position follows a career ladder structure. Final placement level will be determined by recruitment based on experience and qualifications.

Level I

• Preferred: Completion of Patient Care Technician training or CNA training.

Level II

• Required: Minimum of 1 year of patient care experience (experience may include acute care, long-term care, or specialty care).

Level III

• Required: High school diploma or GED.
• Required: 3+ years of patient care experience, and 1+ year as a Level II PCT at Baystate Health.
• Preferred: CNA certification.

Level IV

• Required: High school diploma or GED.
• Required: 4+ years of acute or specialty-specific patient care experience, and 1+ year as a Level III PCT at Baystate Health.
• Preferred: CNA certification.

Skills and Competencies

• Proficient in English (reading, writing, speaking)
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to remain calm and professional in fast-paced or high-stress situations
• Commitment to patient-centered care and team collaboration

Why Choose Baystate Health?

At Baystate, you're more than an employee you're part of a community. We offer professional development opportunities, internal career mobility, and a culture where compassion and respect are at the heart of everything we do. Whether you're starting your healthcare journey or building on years of experience, you belong at Baystate.

Our Compensation Philosophy

Baystate Health offers a competitive total compensation package including base pay, comprehensive benefits, and employee recognition programs. Compensation decisions are based on a range of factors including skills, experience, training, education, certifications, and internal equity. Please note, the base pay range does not reflect additional incentives or our robust benefits package.

Build a career where your work matters. Apply today to join Baystate Health.