Observation Technician - PT

Observation Technician - PT(.6) - Days Position Purpose

The patient care technician is responsible and accountable for assisting patients with activities of daily living, performing technical skills and assisting in maintenance of a safe and clean environment under the direction and supervision of the Registered Nurse/Clinical Coordinator in charge of the patient care unit. The individual must demonstrate ability to deliver care reflective of the patient’s requirements relative to his/her age-specific needs and as described in the unit/area/department policies and procedures.

• Demonstrates skills and knowledge necessary to provide quality care services for age specific populations, such as (but not limited to) pediatric and geriatric patients (PCT).
• Documents all appropriate patient care information (PCT).
• Performs and documents temperature, pulse, respiration, blood pressure, intake and output and other measurements in an accurate manner.
• Posts and collects recording sheets and post instructions sheets on patient doors and walls as indicated.
• Ensures comfort and safety of patients, belongings and environment (PCT).
• Adheres to national patient safety goals and incorporates them into daily practice.
• Maintains beds in the low position with side rails in place and wheels locked at all times.
• Ensures patient safety when transporting by wheelchair or stretcher.
• Conducts frequent rounds to address and respond to patient needs.
• Responds to patient call lights within five (5) minutes or requests that other arrangements be made.
• Applies protective devices as assigned by licensed staff, maintaining patient safety at all times.
• Checks equipment prior to use, for safety hazards.
• Utilizes appropriate body mechanics when performing patient transfers and transports.
• Always correctly identifies patient by name and name band for any direct care procedures, treatments or diet.
• Orients patient to use of equipment, bed controls, communication system and location of bathroom emergency call signal.
• Ensures that necessary patient articles are within reach of patient at all times.
• Exhibits sound judgement and technical skills in the performance of direct patient care treatments and procedures in accordance with policies and procedures (PCT).
• Participates in receiving report at the start of the shift. Gives report to appropriate licensed staff prior to the end of the shift.
• Assists with patient care assigned by the licensed staff/clinical coordinator utilizing the written plan of care at all times.
• Demonstrates knowledge and skill while performing those technical procedures indicated on the skill.
• Inventory checklist which must be successfully completed within 90 days of employment and reassessed annually to demonstrate continued proficiency on an annual basis.
• Collects specimens within designated time frame, using appropriate procedures to ensure accuracy, and maintains infection control measures.
• Accurately applies EKG leads, performs 12 lead EKG tracing, communicates results to licensed staff, and transmits to Cardiology department.
• Obtains, applies, adjusts, fits and maintains orthopedic traction equipment.
• Assists with preparation of the patient for procedures as delegated by licensed staff.
• Assists with admission, discharge, transfer and post mortem care; including documentation in computer system.
• Performs messenger and transport services as required.
• Adheres to infection control and isolation protocols, including wearing protective equipment appropriately.
• Immediately communicates changes in patient status directly to the responsible licensed staff/Clinical Coordinator, including but not limited to VS, bleeding drainage voiding, machine functions, IV infusion, safety situations.
• Assists all patients with dietary needs, setting up trays and assisting pts to eat as necessary.
• Support elimination needs by ensuring that urinals and bedpans are kept empty.
• Assists patients to routinely change position to prevent skin breakdown; notifies licensed staff of any skin impairment or potential for skin injury.
• Maintains work area, supplies and patient rooms in a clean, prepared fashion (PCT).
• Keeps patient room, bedside area…