Purpose:

The Patient Care Technician - Specialist provides routine patient care and supports the department services in accordance with established policies and procedures, and as may be directed by the nurse or physician to assure that the highest degree of quality patient care can be maintained at all times. Completes Specialist patient care duties after successfully completing training and annual competencies. Must routinely perform the UPMC nursing core patient care technician responsibilities including ADLs (bathing, feeding, transporting, toileting, ambulating, turning and repositioning patients. PLUS point of care testing (inc. blood glucose), weights, vital signs, I&O, telemetry monitor application/reapplication, HAC & PSI prevention (TEDs/SCDs). In addition, completes simple dressings, placement and removal of restraints, bladder scan, all specimen collections. Additionally, must perform IV catheter removal, Foley catheter removal, IV insertion, Foley catheter insertion, straight catheterization, phlebotomy and ticket to ride. All competencies must be achieved. Depending on unit need may also perform basic arrhythmia, complex wound care 12 lead EKG, and NG tube clamping and removal.
Responsibilities:

• Demonstrates the ability to communicate clearly and effectively with all members of the health care team. Demonstrate understanding of cultural diversity, horizontal violence and impairment in the health professions. Cares for patients and self by supporting safety in the workplace. Develops and maintains productive working relationships internally and externally by demonstrating accountability for actions, enthusiasm, motivation, and commitment to patients and colleagues.
• Assures equipment malfunctions are reported to the appropriate department. Establishes appropriate and effective communication with other departments. Establishes professional and respectful interpersonal relationships. Contributes to the universal unit activities including, but not limited to, responding to call lights and telephones, passing meal trays and transporting patients.
• Must routinely perform the UPMC nursing core patient care technician responsibilities including ADLs (bathing, feeding, transporting, toileting, ambulating, turning and repositioning patients. PLUS point of care testing (inc. blood glucose), weights, vital signs, I&O, telemetry monitor application/reapplication, HAC & PSI prevention (TEDs/SCDs). In addition, completes simple dressings, placement and removal of restraints, bladder scan, all specimen collections. Additionally, must perform IV catheter removal, Foley catheter removal, IV insertion, Foley catheter insertion, straight catheterization, phlebotomy and ticket to ride. All competencies must be achieved. Depending on unit need may also perform basic arrhythmia, complex wound care, 12 lead EKG, and NG tube clamping and removal.
• Assists with physical, respiratory, and cardiopulmonary therapies. Provides feedback to the RN regarding patient care and reports changes in patient status. Provides instruction to patients and their families under the direction of the RN. May apply, monitor, and remove patient restraints as per physician or hospital protocol.
• Constructively receives feedback and direction. Identifies and communicates learning needs to the unit director. Takes action to improve knowledge, skills, and performance. Requests assistance in planning and prioritizing activities as needed. Participates in self-review as requested by the unit director. Participates in project and committee work.
• Suggests and supports changes within the department. Assumes responsibility for assignment and views problems as challenges. Demonstrates awareness of behavior on the efficient functioning of the department. Supports department-based projects and quality initiatives. Strictly adheres to all policies and procedures relative to patient care and hospital related information. Complies with safety policies and procedures including standard precautions. Documents in the medical record according to established procedures. Performs assigned work in a timely and productive manner. Transports cardiac monitored patients within the hospital setting. May insert foley catheters and perform straight catheterization as instructed by RN. May perform IV insertion, removal, and dressing change. Completes department clerical functions as needed.
• *Performs in accordance with system-wide competencies/behaviors.
• *Performs other duties as assigned.