Patient Care Technician-1Job Summary
The Patient Care Technician (PCT) plays an essential role in delivering safe, compassionate, and efficient patient care. Working under the direction of Registered Nurses (RNs), physicians, and clinical leadership, the PCT provides direct patient care, performs delegated clinical procedures, assists with diagnostic testing, and supports the daily operations of the patient care department.
This position requires excellent communication skills, flexibility, teamwork, and a commitment to delivering exceptional patient care in a fast-paced healthcare environment.
Essential Responsibilities
Patient Care
- Provide direct patient care under the supervision of an RN or physician.
- Monitor, record, and report vital signs and changes in patient condition.
- Assist patients with activities of daily living, mobility, transfers, lifting, positioning, and transportation.
- Perform sterile and aseptic procedures as delegated.
- Observe patients' physical, emotional, and mental status and promptly report concerns.
- Deliver compassionate, patient-centered care while maintaining patient dignity and privacy.
Clinical Skills
Perform delegated clinical procedures, including:
- Vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, respirations, pulse oximetry, oral, axillary, and rectal temperatures)
- Venipuncture and specimen collection
- Laboratory specimen processing and documentation
- Saline lock removal (as delegated)
- Cardiac monitor placement
- Electrocardiograms (EKGs)
- Suctioning
- Wound irrigation, dressing changes, and basic wound care
- Orthopedic support, including splints, immobilizers, ACE wraps, crutch fitting, and crutch education
- Assist physicians and nurses during procedures such as pelvic exams, lumbar punctures, suturing, and other approved procedures within scope of practice
Laboratory Support
- Collect, label, and process patient specimens using proper patient identification procedures.
- Perform laboratory testing according to established policies and procedures.
- Document laboratory results accurately.
- Perform quality control, calibration, and maintenance of laboratory equipment.
- Maintain laboratory records and ensure compliance with CLIA and safety standards.
- Order laboratory supplies as needed.
Patient Registration & Clerical Support
- Register patients and complete assigned clerical duties.
- Maintain accurate documentation and patient records.
- Communicate effectively with patients, families, physicians, nurses, and other healthcare team members.
Equipment & Supply Management
- Stock patient care areas with supplies and linens.
- Monitor inventory and maintain appropriate supply levels.
- Clean, disinfect, and maintain equipment according to infection prevention guidelines.
- Report damaged or malfunctioning equipment promptly.
Environmental Services
- Help maintain a clean, safe, and organized patient care environment.
- Assist with cleaning patient care areas, restrooms, floors, and other assigned areas following facility policies.
Professional Development
- Maintain current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
- Participate in continuing education, staff meetings, and quality improvement initiatives.
- Complete competency validations for required clinical skills.
- Perform additional duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Required
- High school diploma or GED.
- Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Excellent organizational and customer service skills.
- Ability to multitask and work effectively in a fast-paced healthcare environment.
- Ability to work independently while collaborating as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office applications.
- Ability to learn electronic medical record and hospital information systems.
Preferred
- Previous Patient Care Technician, Nursing Assistant, EMT, Medical Assistant, or other direct patient care experience.
- Experience working in an acute care hospital, emergency department, or similar healthcare setting.
- Experience with hospital electronic medical record systems.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, push, pull, and assist patients throughout the workday.
- Lift and carry up to 20 pounds independently and up to 50 pounds with assistance.
- Ability to perform repetitive movements and frequent patient transfers.
- Visual acuity sufficient for patient assessment and equipment operation.
- Ability to work in an environment with exposure to bodily fluids, infectious materials, cleaning chemicals, and other healthcare-related hazards while following all safety protocols.
Why Join Our Team?
- Supportive and collaborative healthcare team
- Opportunity to expand your clinical skills in a fast-paced environment
- Professional development and continuing education opportunities
- Make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and their families every day
We are committed to providing exceptional patient care through teamwork, compassion, integrity, and clinical excellence. If you are passionate about helping others and thrive in a patient-focused healthcare environment, we encourage you to apply.