POSITION SUMMARY

The Patient Care Technician (PCT), under the supervision of the primary nurse (RN),, provides direct care and sitter observation care to patients. PCT may also be directed by Clinical Supervisor or primary RN to perform specific tasks or errands in support of patient care and clinical operations. He/she assists in the provision of a safe and clean environment facilitating therapeutic and more efficient care. He/she provides assistance with patients’ activities of daily living, gathers information on patients’ vital signs, intake and output and other duties within his/her scope.

The position requires the full understanding and active participation in fulfilling the mission of Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Hospital (MLKCH). It is expected that the employee will demonstrate behavior consistent with the MLKCH Core Values. The employee shall support Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Hospital’s strategic plan and the goals and direction of the quality and performance improvement initiatives.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Obtains verbal report from the patient’s primary nurse to include information regarding the patient’s identified care needs, treatment plans, and appropriate activities as discussed during the RN handoff communication with the PCT. Asks questions for clarification if needed.
• Reviews in EHR (Electronic Health Record) with the primary RN any additional patient information regarding necessary care elements such as patients' dietary restrictions, food allergies, intake and output needs, isolation precautions and the like prior to assuming care for the patient.
• Assists patients to perform daily living activities, such as getting out of bed, bathing, dressing, eating, using the toilet, standing, walking, or exercising and provide oral care.
• Measures and records in EHR vital signs, such as temperature, blood pressure, pulse, or respiration rate, and pain rating as directed by the Physician or Registered Nurse.
• Measures and records in EHR food and liquid intake or urinary and fecal output, reporting changes to the Registered Nurse
• Turns or repositions patients, as required.
• Observes patients to identify unusual signs that may require medical attention, such as bruises, open wounds, decreased awareness, abnormal vital signs, blood in urine or any signs of distress or violent/disruptive behavior and report to the RN immediately.
• Promptly answers patient call signals, signal lights, bells, or intercom systems to determine patients' needs.
• Maintains patient environment in a safe and orderly manner.
• Responds as directed by the primary RN or Clinical Supervisor to changing patients'/unit's needs.
• Serves as a runner or transports patients as directed.
• Verbalizes and demonstrates understanding of responsibilities during all emergency codes.
• Complies with all hospital procedures and Federal and State rules and regulations as it relates to their role.
• Offers consistent help and visible assistance to team members when needed.
• Applies principles of caring and healing in interactions with patients, families, and with colleagues.
• Reviews patients’ dietary restrictions, food allergies, and preferences to ensure the patient receives the appropriate diet.
• Strives to achieve excellence of service as described in the MLKCH Values of Caring - Collaboration, Accountability, Respect and Excellence.
• Displays honest behavior in all matters.
• Communicates verbally and in writing in a clear, professional manner and demonstrates respect for patient, families/significant others and other health care members.
• Adjusts role classification and cost center codes within Kronos time clock prior to assignment start, as necessary.
• When the PCT is assigned sitter duty, his or her primary responsibility is to observe the patient to assure the patient’s safety and provide total patient care.
• Understands that their personal belongings do not belong in the patients’ room.
• Demonstrates proficiency with sitter responsibilities as outlined in the “Sitter’s Responsibilities Resource Binder” located on each patient care unit, and as reviewed at the time of orientation and annually thereafter.
• Before starting sitter/observer duty, reviews with the primary RN the “Handoff Communication Report” and asks questions when uncertain.
• Reports any unusual patient condition or situation immediately to the RN.
• Documents on the “Sitter Documentation Record” at least every hour or more often based on patient condition changes.
• Collaborates with the Clinical Unit Supervisor and the primary RN to ensure coverage during breaks in order to assure continuous and uninterrupted patient observation.
• Assists with patient flow in the “Discharge Patient Waiting Lounge”. (Refer to Discharge Lounge Policy- CM-4004)
• Plays active role in rounding to ensure patient safety at all times.
• Performs other duties as assigned.