The Patient Support Technician functions as a collaborative member of the health care team in partnership with and under supervision of the Registered Nurse utilizing principles of Relationship-Based Care, performs direct patient care to a specific group of patients and coordinates activities which relate to the flow of unit processes. Actively supports the activities of the unit based shared governance council. Promotes organizational commitment and excellence in patient care experience.
The role involves providing patient care that reflects respect for patients' rights, dignity, values, culture preferences, and expressed needs and attention to providing comfort, relieving pain, and alleviating anxiety. It includes providing basic bedside care and selected procedures under the direction and supervision of the Registered Nurse. This includes venipuncture, 12 lead EKG, basic blood glucose collection and monitoring, respiratory care, dressing changes, collection of vital signs, recognition of life-threatening conditions with initial responses and reporting, emptying and measuring drainage equipment. Additionally, the role involves performing activities of daily living (ADL) appropriate to the patient's condition under the direction of the Registered Nurse, initiating and maintaining patient medical records, managing communication for the unit, maintaining an accurate patient roster/census and available ready beds, assisting with the provision of patient education, performing basic nutritional support, and taking personal accountability to seek out experiences to maintain skills and competence.
The Patient Support Technician also assists with the admission process by collecting selected assessment data, applying necessary equipment, and informing patient/family of unit routines. This role actively engages and participates in unit-based and other committees that promote patient and workplace safety, optimal patient outcomes, and satisfaction. It requires reporting changes in patient condition to the Registered Nurse in a timely manner, demonstrating proper body mechanics in performing role, and performing other various duties as assigned and needed. The role demonstrates and actively promotes an understanding and commitment to the mission of Trinity Health Oakland through performing behaviors consistent with the Trinity Health Values.
In accordance with unit or departmental practice, the Patient Support Technician determines that appropriate charges have been entered for the correct patient, encounter, date/time of service, with any required modifiers. They also participate in on-going education and communication regarding revenue management, assist with tracking and monitoring of equipment assigned to the unit, and are proficient with the electronic health records for documentation, assessment, and care management.
Minimum qualifications include preferably at least one of the following: 6 months direct patient care experience within the past 5 years, completion of one Medical/Surgical clinical rotation in a nursing educational program, completion of a "Patient Care Technician" program that requires successful completion of an externship in an acute care facility, or previous Health Unit Coordinator/Unit Secretary working experience. Education includes graduation from an accredited high school or GED program or equivalent. Preferred completion includes a certification program which requires a Medical/Surgical rotation, Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), or equivalent work experience as defined in Section D. Licensure/certification includes current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification through American Heart Association.
Physical and mental requirements include maintaining appropriate skill level through completion of required hospital and unit-based education offerings. The colleague may sit for 25%, stand for 25%, and walk for 50% of the day. Working in the patient care environment may result in exposure to communicable diseases and hazardous substances. Working weekends and holidays is necessary to meet staffing needs. The position requires occasional (5-10% of work time) squatting, crawling, crouching, kneeling, and balancing, frequent bending/stooping, and reaching above shoulder level, pushing/pulling. Position may require frequent lifting and carrying of patients/equipment not to exceed 51 pounds. Associates will not lift items/patients exceeding 35 pounds from the floor. Position requires the use of hands for simple and firm grasping and fine manipulating.
Our commitment is rooted in our Mission and Core Values, honoring the dignity of every person and recognizing the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents each colleague brings. By finding common ground and embracing our differences, we grow stronger together and deliver more compassionate, person-centered care. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.