Patient Care Specialist

Job Description

Patient Care Specialist

St. Mary’s Medical Center is seeking dedicated Patient Care Specialists to join our compassionate healthcare team. This vital position plays a crucial role in assisting with various patient care activities, operating under the direct supervision and guidance of a Registered Nurse. The Patient Care Specialist is responsible for delivering care in strict conformance with Medical Center policies and procedures, contributing significantly to a safe, effective, and supportive patient environment.

Key Responsibilities & Clinical Support

• Demonstrates the ability to properly perform and document 12-lead Electrocardiograms (EKGs).
• Responsible for recognizing abnormal EKG tracings and promptly bringing these abnormalities to the attention of the Charge Nurse.
• Collects blood samples from patients using appropriate techniques, including venipuncture or skin puncture.
• Accurately and timely enters all required documentation into the electronic medical record (EMR) or relevant databases.
• Cleans and maintains equipment according to approved solutions and Manufacturer’s Instructions For Use (MIFU).
• Reports any maintenance concerns or faulty equipment immediately, following facility policy.

Direct Patient Care Activities

• Assists in providing direct, safe, and effective patient care designed to meet the physical, spiritual, and psychological needs of patients across all age ranges, from neonate to geriatrics.
• Measures and accurately records vital signs, promptly reporting any abnormalities to the Charge Nurse.
• Monitors and meticulously documents patient intake and output, bringing any abnormalities or concerns to attention.
• Assists patients with activities of daily living (ADLs), including personal hygiene, grooming, and mobility.
• Supports patient nutrition, providing meal assistance and feeding as appropriate and directed.
• Provides basic skin care monitoring, observing for and reporting any changes in skin condition to the nursing staff.
• Provides basic respiratory support as directed, such as oxygen setup.
• Assists with clinical procedures within the established scope of training and as delegated by the Registered Nurse.
• Performs indirect patient care activities as assigned by the individual unit, ensuring comprehensive support.

Communication & Documentation

• Observes and reports pertinent patient information and changes in condition to the patient care nurse or charge nurse in a timely manner.
• Documents thoroughly and accurately in the electronic medical record, providing clear descriptions of the patient’s progress and care provided.
• Provides appropriate explanations to patients regarding procedures, remaining within the established scope of training.
• Communicates in a professional, empathetic, and respectful manner with patients and their families.
• Utilizes effective interpersonal techniques to foster productive relationships with colleagues and other personnel.

Professional Conduct & Development

• Continuously increases job knowledge by actively attending in-service programs and mandatory training.
• Maintains strict confidentiality of all patient health information and sensitive medical center data.
• Annually completes all required competency assessments to ensure ongoing proficiency and compliance.
• Demonstrates comprehensive knowledge of the operation and use of unit-specific equipment and procedures.
• Demonstrates awareness and participates in ongoing unit-specific performance improvement activities.
• Performs other duties as required or assigned to support the efficient operation and patient care mission of the medical center.

Safety, Compliance & General Expectations

• Follows all standard safety precautions to ensure a secure environment for patients, visitors, and staff.
• Utilizes appropriate measures at all times to promote and maintain patient safety.
• Adheres strictly to the standards of conduct, policies, and procedures of St. Mary’s Medical Center, as well as all applicable laws and regulations.
• Reports any observed violations or concerns through the appropriate chain of command.
• Makes decisions that appropriately consider the age and developmental stage of the patients being treated, ensuring age-specific care.
• Reports for all scheduled shifts reliably and punctually.