Patient Care Associate

Patient Care Associate 1

Jackson Health System invites qualified candidates to apply for the Patient Care Associate 1 position in the Transplant Surgery unit.

Patient Care Associate provides patient-focused, age‑specific information and clinical support to patients through the utilization of appropriate health information equipment/systems. This is the level 3 job in the nursing support career ladder.

Uses a systematic process to provide/modify care and patient/family education. Assists the health care team with simple procedures; prepares supplies and equipment; provides patient/family support, assists in positioning patients, sets up/ removes equipment, etc. Under direction, performs a variety of tasks associated with generalized patient care (vital signs, feeding, mobility, drainage, and personal hygiene: bath, dressing, bed‑making/linen changes, etc.). Utilizes specialized equipment as needed when providing patient care.

Prepares and cleans exam rooms, patient treatment areas, and stretchers between patient uses. Transports patients to and from treatment areas when needed. Cleans assigned area after patient treatment, as needed according to departmental procedures. Takes and picks up food orders for patient’s kitchen evaluation. Assists in the fabrication of adaptive and assistive equipment (washing mitts, wheelchair gloves, safety belts, straps, etc.).

Keeps the storage closet in order and stocked. Assists with office duties as needed. Supports the health care team including set‑up, equipment prep, clean‑up, restocking, and specimen labeling. Attentive to patient care needs that meet clinical goals for routine visits. Responsive in meeting patient flow processes that reduce wait times. Adjusts work pace, as directed, to meet volume demands of the clinical unit.

Demonstrates flexibility and willingness to support the delivery model of care as defined by ANM/NM. Schedules appointments for referrals/consultations as assigned, minimizing distractions. Consistently adheres to time‑outs prior to the start of surgical and invasive procedures per policy. Follows policies on patient identification, hand hygiene/infection control, and all other related unit‑specific policies and procedures, as detailed on the unit‑specific competency checklist.

Performs phlebotomy function as assigned, provided the employee has completed an accredited phlebotomy program. Utilizes job‑ and unit‑specific equipment as needed. Demonstrates service‑excellence behaviors and CARE values (Compassion, Accountability, Respect, and Expertise). Performs all other related job duties as assigned.

Generally requires 0 to 3 years of related experience.

Completion of an approved Medical Assistant or Nursing Assistant training program is required.

Ability to analyze, organize, and prioritize work accurately while meeting multiple deadlines. Ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written form. Ability to handle difficult and stressful situations with critical thinking and professional composure. Ability to understand and follow instructions. Knowledge and skill in the use of job‑appropriate technology and software applications. Must meet and maintain current all unit‑specific and organizational skills/competencies, certifications/l​icenses, as required by the nursing area.

Medical Assistant Certification or Certified Nursing Assistant license, including Phlebotomy, is required. Employees hired into PCA classification before 08/09/2020 are grandfathered in for the certification/​license requirement. Incumbents performing phlebotomy function must provide proof of completion of an accredited phlebotomy program. American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS) and any additional applicable life‑support certification for Healthcare Providers is required upon hire with at least six months validity and maintenance at JHS for the duration of employment.

FL‑BLS

Physical Requirements – Job functions require extended standing or walking. Must be able to carry objects weighing 21 to 50 pounds. Able to lift or move objects weighing 51…