Van Driver

JOB SUMMARY: Under general supervision, provides basic patient care to all patients including those in isolation. Provides age specific assistance with activities of daily living and therapeutic measures that will result in a lower level of agitation or higher level of comfort for the patient. Under direct supervision, ensures patient safety under ANMC care through observation.

REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES Observes patients experiencing suicidal ideation, behavioral health issues, or other safety concerns to ensure safety and stability. Reports significant changes or unusual occurrences to primary Registered Nurse (RN). Records and reports all information within scope of knowledge.

Conducts regular environmental assessments to ensure the environment is free of objects, equipment, medications, etc. that a suicidal patient may use to harm themselves. Must be able to work in situations with isolation precautions.

Provides basic care including hygiene and activities of daily living such as bed baths, showers, grooming, dressing, toileting, monitoring body functions, preventative skin care, incontinence care, feeding, and oral hygiene. Assists nursing staff with mobility using safe transfer techniques, patient transport, range of motion, ambulation, restraints, care for the patient’s environment, and application of safety measures to all patients.

Obtains and records vital signs, temperature, height, weight, girth measurements, incentive spirometry, calorie counts, and other specific parameters as directed. Documents findings on appropriate electronic health record (EHR) flow sheet and reports findings to the RN. Identifies and reports changes in patients’ status to the RN.

Performs patient treatments as directed such as application of heat or cold, and simple non-sterile dressings. Provides ostomy, post-mortem, and indwelling catheter care. Assists with oral suctioning, care of established tracheostomies, and care of long term permanent-placed feeding tube sites (not nasal tubes).

Performs a variety of technical tasks which may include: non-invasive collection and transportation of specimens to the laboratory, obtaining blood glucose levels, measuring and recording fluid and food intake and output, removal of urinary catheter, bowel care, placing electrodes and leads for electrocardiograms, cardiac monitoring, and telemetry, traction frame set up, cast care, and application of external monitoring devices. Documents and reports results to the RN.

Recognizes abnormal signs and symptoms including shortness of breath, rapid respiration, fever, chills, cough, chest or abdomen pain, blue color to the lips, drowsiness, and excessive thirst or sweating. Reports changes in body function, abnormal signs and symptoms to RN. Initiates CPR and other basic life support or emergency measures as required. Adheres to established safety, emergency and disaster procedures. Assists with patient examinations and therapeutic procedures, including aseptic procedures requiring sterile preps. Transports patients and equipment as required.

Maintains cleanliness and safety of a variety of equipment; reports any hazardous equipment and seeks repairs when necessary; maintains confidentiality in regard to patient care information and chart contents. Assist in infection control including using standard precautions and isolation precautions as appropriate. Collaborates with personnel in nursing and supportive services and with members of the health care team to promote respect in delivery of patient care.

Performs clerical duties. Answers the phones, completes requisitions, schedules tests and appointments, scans and files reports, orders supplies and equipment, and manages patients’ medical records.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Skills

KNOWLEDGE and SKILLS Knowledge of safety factors and medical terminology. Knowledge of policies and procedures for the care of patients. Knowledge of customer service concepts and practices. Knowledge of communication skills, both oral and written to interact with patients and families. Skill in observing patients and taking appropriate action as needed. Skill in analyzing safety issues and preparing recommendations based on findings. Skill in establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships with other employees. Skill in operating a personal computer utilizing a variety of software applications.

Required Experience

MINIMUM EDUCATION QUALIFICATION A high school diploma or GED equivalent.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE QUALIFICATION Non-supervisory – None

MINIMUM CERTIFICATION QUALIFICATION Current State of Alaska Nurse’s Aide Certification (CNA). Current Basic Life Support card required.

PREFERRED EDUCATION QUALIFICATION N/A

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE QUALIFICATION Previous work experience in a hospital setting preferred.

PREFERRED CERTIFICATION QUALIFICATION N/A

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS Must complete Crisis Prevention Intervention training and Suicide Observation training within sixty (60) days of hire.

WORKING CONDITIONS The following demands are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job: Must be able to push, pull, and lift approximately 40 pounds. ANMC is not a latex free facility; an employee should expect to work in an environment where latex may be present. The work demands long periods of sitting, walking, standing, bending, stooping, and lifting in the process of patient care. May be required to work outside the traditional work schedule.

Qualifications:
KNOWLEDGE and SKILLS Knowledge of safety factors and medical terminology. Knowledge of policies and procedures for the care of patients. Knowledge of customer service concepts and practices. Knowledge of communication skills, both oral and written to interact with patients and families. Skill in observing patients and taking appropriate action as needed. Skill in analyzing safety issues and preparing recommendations based on findings. Skill in establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships with other employees. Skill in operating a personal computer utilizing a variety of software applications.