Monitor Tech (3613)

Monitors cardiac rhythms of patients by continual observation of telemetry units in order to recognize, record, and report arrhythmias of patients according to established standards and practices.

Essential Function

Reviews patient information or profile to determine normal heart rhythm patterns, current patterns, and prior variances. Demonstrates knowledge and skills and maintains clinical competencies necessary to provide care appropriate to age of the patients served within the department.

Notifies nurse or other applicable staff member of any significant changes in patient’s heart rate, development of premature beats, conduction defects and/or development of arrhythmia by observing screen monitor and listening for alarm to identify irregularities in heart rhythm.

Observes, files and documents electrocardiogram (telemetry) rhythm strips as ordered by physician, consistent with patient care policies and procedures, demonstrated competencies, and with consideration given to risk management, infection control practices, patient safety practice and EKG/Telemetry departmental activities.

• Places telemetry leads on patients according to policy to ensure accurate heart rhythm analysis.
• Documents heart rhythm patterns by measuring length and height of heart rhythm on a 6 second strip and posting information on patient charts.
• Updates and places arrhythmias /cardiology tracings in designated location in patient’s chart. Utilizes patient computer systems and maintains confidentiality at all times.

Removes and cleans telemetry units. Maintains monitoring equipment/ carts and effective utilization of supplies and materials. Reports malfunction of equipment to supervisor.

Confers and works collaboratively with patient/family/hospital staff in a customer responsive and courteous manner, in compliance with iRESPECT standards and promoting patient/customer satisfaction to achieve positive patient outcomes.

Completes required continuous training and education, including department specific requirements. Responds to problems/opportunities to improve work environment and participates in unit based performance improvement activities which includes committees, monitoring and follow-up.

Maintains confidentiality in matters relating to patient/family, department and hospital information. Adheres to established department and organization policies (i.e. HIPAA, Confidentiality, and Compliance Policies).

Maintains required department records, reports and files. Maintains established department policies procedures, objectives, compliance/quality improvement, safety, environmental and infection control standards.