Patient Care Associate
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Job Description
About Company
Mercy is a healthcare organization committed to the growth and well-being of its co-workers. They offer an accredited Department of Labor Apprenticeship Program for Patient Care Associates, providing comprehensive, hands-on training to gain valuable skills and credentials in a supportive healthcare environment. Mercy emphasizes career advancement, offering opportunities through a career ladder.
Mercy provides a comprehensive benefits package, including:
• Education assistance towards a nursing degree.
• Health, Dental, and Vision coverage available from day one.
• An annual contribution of $100 per month to eligible co-workers enrolled in the Dependent Care FSA.
• Paid parental leave for new parents.
• 401k with employer match starting from day one.
• PTO accrual beginning on day one, which includes a dedicated day for volunteering.
• A competitive salary and strong prospects for future career growth.
• Mercy is an EEO/AA employer, welcoming minorities, females, disabled individuals, and veterans.
Job Description: Patient Care Associate
Position: Patient Care Associate (PCA)
Department: Surgical
Shift: 36 hours/week, working 6:30 AM to 7:00 PM shifts.
Sign-on Bonus: May be eligible for up to $500.
Overview:
Under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), the Patient Care Associate assists in providing individualized care to patients, aiming to achieve each patient’s highest level of wellness.
Key Responsibilities for Patient Care Associate (PCA):
• Obtain and document vital signs into the electronic medical records system.
• Assist patients with various care needs, including meals, bathing, toileting, ambulation, patient mobility, and transport.
• Provide clerical support duties as needed.
Opportunity for Advancement:
This position offers a clear path for professional development through a career ladder, allowing advancement to a Patient Care Technician (PCT) role and potentially beyond.
Advanced Responsibilities for Patient Care Technician (PCT) (after advancement):
Upon advancing to a PCT, responsibilities expand to include all PCA job duties plus:
• Phlebotomy and blood cultures.
• Enteral feeding.
• Wound care.
• IV and Foley catheter removal.
• Trach care and suctioning.
Training Program:
Mercy provides a robust training framework:
• The Patient Care Associate training program is an accredited Department of Labor Apprenticeship Program, offering a comprehensive, hands-on learning experience.
• For candidates without prior experience, Mercy provides a required 175-hour training program that meets the Department of Health and Senior Services requirements. This program is completed as part of the new hire orientation process and must be finished within 90 days of hire to maintain the PCA position per state guidelines.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification is required within one month of hire.
• Completion of PCA competencies is required within three months of hire.
Qualifications:
• Education: High school diploma, G.E.D., Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Certified Patient Care Technician (CPTC), enrollment in a healthcare career program through high school curriculum, and/or current co-worker of Mercy.
• Experience: None required.
• Preferred Certifications: Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).
Minimum Physical Requirements:
• Ability to push, pull, and/or lift 50 pounds on a regular basis.
• Position requires prolonged standing and walking during each shift.
• Ability to grip, reach, bend, kneel, twist, and squat to perform duties effectively.
