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Direct Patient Care Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Trinity Health

Patient Care Manager

Elkader, IA · On-site

Elkader Medical Center The Patient Care Manager manages the day-to-day operations and upholds ... Keeps director / CNO informed of programs, problems and issues. * Resolves problems independently ...

Trinity Health

Patient Care Manager

Elkader, IA

Elkader Medical Center The Patient Care Manager manages the day-to-day operations and upholds ... Keeps director / CNO informed of programs, problems and issues. * Resolves problems independently ...

Trinityhealth

Patient Care Manager

Elkader, IA · On-site

Elkader Medical Center The Patient Care Manager manages the day-to-day operations and upholds ... Keeps director / CNO informed of programs, problems and issues. * Resolves problems independently ...

Heartland Hospice

Patient Care Manager Senior

Ames, IA · On-site

Reporting directly to the Executive Director or Administrator, you will play a vital role in maintaining a high-performing hospice program by managing patient care activities, supervising clinical ...

Avera Health

Patient Care Technician

Rock Rapids, IA

$18 - $23.50/hr

Provides safe and direct patient care: ambulating, bathing, positioning, entering diet information into the computer system, passing meal trays, feeding and attending to other care needs. Responds ...

New

Mary Greeley Medical Center

Patient Care Tech

Ames, IA

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Under general supervision, supports the professional clinical staff by providing direct patient care and performing duties as assigned by the RN. Prevents illness and injury. Advocates for patients ...

Gentiva Hospice

Patient Care Manager Senior

Ames, IA · On-site

Reporting directly to the Executive Director or Administrator, you will play a vital role in maintaining a high-performing hospice program by managing patient care activities, supervising clinical ...

Mary Greeley Medical Center

Patient Care Tech

Ames, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Under general supervision, supports the professional clinical staff by providing direct patient care and performing duties as assigned by the RN. Prevents illness and injury. Advocates for patients ...

Mary Greeley Medical Center

Patient Care Tech

Ames, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Under general supervision, supports the professional clinical staff by providing direct patient care and performing duties as assigned by the RN. Prevents illness and injury. Advocates for patients ...

Mary Greeley Medical Center

Patient Care Tech

Ames, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Under general supervision, supports the professional clinical staff by providing direct patient care and performing duties as assigned by the RN. Prevents illness and injury. Advocates for patients ...

Mary Greeley Medical Center

Patient Care Tech

Ames, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Under general supervision, supports the professional clinical staff by providing direct patient care and performing duties as assigned by the RN. Prevents illness and injury. Advocates for patients ...

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Direct Patient Care information

See Iowa salary details

$14

$37

$65

How much do direct patient care jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for direct patient care in Iowa is $37.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.12 and $48.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is direct patient care?

Direct patient care refers to hands-on, face-to-face interactions with patients aimed at diagnosing, treating, and monitoring their health. This includes tasks like taking vital signs, administering medication, assisting with daily activities, and providing emotional support. Healthcare professionals such as nurses, physicians, medical assistants, and therapists commonly provide direct patient care. This type of care is essential for ensuring patients receive immediate attention and personalized treatment throughout their medical journey.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in direct patient care?

To excel in Direct Patient Care, you need a solid understanding of patient assessment, basic clinical procedures, and infection control, often supported by a relevant healthcare certification or degree. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHR) systems, medical charting, and vital sign monitoring equipment is typically required. Compassion, strong communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are critical soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, effective, and empathetic care delivery, which directly impacts patient outcomes and satisfaction.

What are some common challenges faced in direct patient care roles, and how can they be managed?

Direct patient care professionals often encounter challenges such as managing high patient loads, handling emotionally charged situations, and maintaining effective communication with both patients and interdisciplinary teams. To manage these challenges, it’s important to practice strong time management, seek support from colleagues, and engage in regular self-care to prevent burnout. Many employers also offer training and resources to help staff build resilience and develop effective coping strategies, ensuring a supportive work environment.

What is the difference between Direct Patient Care vs Medical Assistant?

AspectDirect Patient CareMedical Assistant
CredentialsVaries; often includes nursing licenses or certificationsCertified or registered; CMA credential common
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, long-term care facilitiesClinics, outpatient settings, physician offices
Job RoleProviding direct treatment, assessments, patient educationAssisting with exams, administrative tasks, basic patient care

Direct Patient Care roles focus on delivering hands-on treatment and patient management, often requiring advanced certifications. Medical Assistants support clinical and administrative tasks, primarily assisting healthcare providers. While both work closely with patients, Direct Patient Care providers typically have more advanced clinical responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Direct Patient Care jobs in Iowa?

For Direct Patient Care jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Direct Patient Care jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Direct Patient Care jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Direct Patient Care jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Direct Patient Care job openings:

Direct Patient Care jobs near you
Infographic showing various Direct Patient Care job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,928 per year, or $37.5 per hour.

Patient Care Technician - PCT

Mason City, IA • On-site

Fresenius Medical Care
Health Care and Social Assistance • 10K+ employees

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 1,333 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

532nd of 894 rated healthcare providers

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

Respectful managers

Learn more about Fresenius Medical Careexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

PURPOSE AND SCOPE:
Functions as part of the dialysis health care team in providing safe and effective dialysis therapy for patients under the direct supervision of a licensed nurse in accordance with organization policies, procedures, and training and in compliance with regulations set forth by the corporation, state, and federal agencies. Responsible for the setup and operation of hemodialysis machines. Assist in the maintenance of a safe and clean working environment. Supports the organization commitment to the Quality Enhancement Program (QEP) and CQI Activities, including those related to patient satisfaction and actively participates in process improvement activities that enhance the likelihood that patients will achieve the organization Quality Enhancement Goals (QEP).
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Patient Related
Education:
  • Assist other health care members in providing patient specific detailed education regarding adequacy measures where appropriate - Online Clearance Monitoring (OLC), Adequacy Monitoring Program (AMP), Urea Kinetic Modeling (UKM), and regarding disease process/access.

Treatment:
  • Welcome assigned patients and inquire as to their wellbeing since their last treatment.
  • Evaluate vascular access for patency, perform vascular access cannulation, and perform administration of heparin as delegated or as allowed by state law.
  • Obtain necessary pre and post treatment vital signs and weight and perform vascular access evaluation pre- treatment
  • Initiate dialysis treatment according to prescribed orders including blood flow (QB) and dialysate flow (QD).
  • Evaluate intradialytic problems and provide intervention as prescribed by physician order or as directed.
  • Monitor patients' response to dialysis therapy.
  • Obtain vital signs prior to reinfusion; perform all relevant functions necessary for the discontinuation of treatment - document.
  • Discontinue dialysis treatment according to established procedures and evaluate patient prior to termination of venous access - standing & sitting blood pressure
  • Obtain Hemostasis and apply appropriate dressings.
  • Evaluate the patient prior to discharge.
  • Perform and record Pre and Post dialysis evaluation, weight, and vital signs with initial identification
  • Responsible for calculating and entry of individual patients' dialysis machine programming for Ultrafiltration (UF) goal; treatment time; and UF modeling as prescribed.
  • Responsible for ensuring appropriate safety alarms are enabled, including Narrow Venous Limits, (NVL) 160.
  • Record accurate and timely information regarding vital signs and treatment parameters onto the Hemodialysis Treatment Sheet with initial identification
  • Responsible for accurate documentation of information related to patient treatment including completion of Hemodialysis Treatment Sheet and, if applicable, progress notes.
  • Report any significant information and/or change in patient condition directly to the registered nurse or supervisor.
  • Observe patient and conduct machine safety checks according to facility policy. Report any change or unusual findings to the registered nurse or supervisor.
  • Perform and document any intervention for unusual patient status and document patients' response to intervention.
  • Evaluate patients' vascular access during treatment including arterial and venous monitoring pressures, provide appropriate intervention as needed, document and report any unusual findings to the registered nurse or supervisor.
  • Obtain all prescribed laboratory testing and prepare specimens for collection.
  • Ensure that all blood spills are immediately cleaned with appropriate disinfectant according to facility policy.
  • Prepare, organize, and efficiently utilize supplies and equipment to prevent wastage.
  • Monitors patients performing self-care under the supervision of RN.

Staff Related
  • Assists in training of applicable direct patient care staff on appropriate programs under the supervision of a nurse.

Education/Communication:
  • Follows all organization business policies, procedures and systems incorporated into training, including compliance with ethical business practices
  • Maintain environmental integrity and aesthetics - ensure all areas are safe and clean.
  • Clean and disinfect dialysis machine surface, chair, equipment, and surrounding area between treatments according to facility policy.
  • Conduct all tasks necessary for preparation for dialysis treatment and document where appropriate and perform all required pretreatment dialysis machine alarm testing including Pressure Holding (PHT).
  • Initiate Solution Delivery System (SDS) system.

RECORD KEEPING:
  • Complete and document ongoing participation in Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) activities.
  • Enters all treatment data into the designated clinical application in an accurate and timely manner.
  • Review treatment sheets for completeness, ensure nursing signatures are documented, and ensure

omitted entries are completed or corrected by appropriate staff.
  • Prepare initial patient chart for admission and compile paperwork for appropriate placement in chart.
  • Prepare/print lab requisitions for prescribed or stat Lab specimens according to laboratory destination.
  • Collect, label, appropriately prepare and store lab samples according required laboratory specifications.
  • Ensure collection of lab specimens by appropriate lab courier.

INFECTION CONTROL:
  • Assists in collecting information for infection control audits.
  • Supports staff and patient Adherence to infection control practices.
  • Follows infection control Policies and Procedures
  • Participates in and reinforces infection control education of patients and families under the direction of the CM or designee as allowed by state law.

TRANSITIONAL CARE UNIT:
  • Follows all newly admitted patients through their first 4 weeks of dialysis and coordinating their transitional dialysis care
  • Reinforces all education and care related matters as it relates to the new patient as allowed by state law
  • Liaisons with appropriate FKC staff members to provide the best patient experience including making sure all disciplines are scheduled to see patient according to plan.
  • Assists in assuring patient understanding or home dialysis products, benefits of home and how home dialysis can work for them.
  • Sets and preforms a treatment on all machines used in the transitional care unit.
  • Assist in assuring patient understanding of treatment options including demonstration of the peritoneal dialysis set-up.
  • Assists with coordination of transition to patient's modality choice.
  • Assists with supply ordering and inventory for TCU

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS:
  • The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee

encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable
individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Employees are required to take the Ishihara's Color Blindness test as a condition of employment. Note that: Failing the

Ishihara Test for Color Blindness does not preclude employment. The Company will consider whether reasonable
accommodations can be made.
  • Day to day work includes desk and personal computer work and interaction with patients, facility staff, and physicians. The position requires travel between assigned facilities and various locations within the community. Travel to regional, Business Unit and Corporate meetings may be required.
  • The work environment is characteristic of a health care facility with air temperature control and moderate noise levels. May be exposed to infectious and contagious diseases/materials
  • The position provides direct patient care that regularly involves heavy lifting and moving of patients and assisting with ambulation. Equipment aids and/or coworkers may provide assistance. This position requires frequent, prolonged periods of standing and the employee must be able to bend over. The employee may occasionally be required to push and/or pull equipment, exerting up to 15 pounds of force. The employee may be required to lift and to lower solutions on a frequent basis of up to 30 lbs., and on an occasional lift basis up to 40 lbs., as high as 5 feet. There is a two-person assist program and "material assist" devices for the heavier items.

EDUCATION AND LICENSES:
  • High School diploma or G.E.D. required.
  • Must meet Center for Medicaid/Medicare Services (CMS)-approved state and/or national certification requirements within the required state or CMS timeline.
  • All appropriate state licensure, education, and training (if any) required.
  • Demonstrated commitment to organization culture, values, and customer service standards

EXPERIENCE AND REQUIRED SKILLS:
  • Previous patient care experience in a hospital setting or a related facility preferred.
  • Continued employment is dependent on successful completion of the organization dialysis training program and successful completion of CPR certification.

Fresenius Medical Care maintains a drug-free workplace in accordance with applicable federal and state laws.
Fresenius Medical Care is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, parental status, national origin, age, disability, military service, or other non-merit-based factors
Fresenius Medical Care logo

About Fresenius Medical Care

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are a Team of more than 70,000 with one guiding Principle Patients First. This promise starts with providing the most comprehensive care for people living with Chronic Kidney Disease and extends to Innovative Solutions that are redefining Healthcare and setting the industry standard. From evolving home Dialysis and Patient education programs to improving patient care to providing World Class Research and Data driven insights. Our vertically integrated network tirelessly seeks new ways to improve the quality of our Patients' lives. We believe each of us can make an impact and together we can change an industry. Our Mission is to Provide Superior care that improves the quality of life of every patient, every day, setting the standard by which others in the Healthcare Industry are judged. And none of us does it alone. We bring together the brightest minds in kidney care to Dream, Research, and Innovate.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Waltham, MA, US

Year founded

1996

Social media

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