PATIENT CARE TECHNICIAN - CARDIOVASCULAR SURGICAL STEPDOWN - FULL TIME NIGHTS

Full-time - Entry Level

Neptune Township, NJ

Hospitals

About the position

As a Patient Care Technician in the Cardiovascular Surgical Stepdown unit at Hackensack Meridian Health, you will play a crucial role in providing high-quality patient care. This position requires a commitment to enhancing patient outcomes through effective communication, critical thinking, and collaboration with the healthcare team. You will be responsible for delivering care that is tailored to the physical and psychosocial needs of patients across various age groups, ensuring their safety and comfort during their stay. Your day-to-day responsibilities will include monitoring vital signs, assisting with personal hygiene, and preparing patients for examinations and procedures. You will also engage in interdisciplinary collaboration to develop and implement patient care plans, ensuring a seamless transition from admission to discharge. In this role, you will be expected to take initiative and demonstrate a proactive approach to patient care. This includes recognizing opportunities to improve patient satisfaction and participating in performance improvement activities within the unit. You will be responsible for obtaining clinical data, performing venipuncture, and ensuring that all necessary medical equipment is functional and clean. Additionally, you will assist with patient transport, meal preparation, and documentation of patient intake and output. Your ability to communicate effectively with patients, families, and healthcare professionals will be essential in providing a safe and supportive environment for all patients. The position requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with completion of a relevant training program or equivalent medical experience. You will need to obtain Basic Health Care Life Support certification within 60 days of hire. Experience in a hospital setting, particularly as a Patient Care Technician or Certified Nursing Assistant, is strongly preferred. This role is vital in maintaining the high standards of care that Hackensack Meridian Health is known for, and you will be part of a dedicated team that strives to make a positive impact on the lives of patients and their families.

Responsibilities

• Provide patient care based on physical, psychosocial, education, safety, and related criteria appropriate to the age of the patients served.
• Ensure effective and safe patient outcomes through practice, judgment, and critical actions.
• Communicate ongoing with patients, nursing colleagues, and other healthcare team members regarding patient status and care rendered.
• Take initiative to exceed job expectations and improve performance.
• Participate in interdisciplinary collaboration for patient care from admission to discharge.
• Welcome patients and check for proper identification bracelets.
• Prepare patients for assessment, physical examination, and procedures.
• Enhance patient satisfaction through recognition and response to opportunities.
• Obtain clinical data such as temperature, pulse, respirations, blood pressure, and O2 saturation, documenting findings and notifying RN of abnormalities.
• Perform venipuncture for laboratory tests and draw blood using proper techniques.
• Maintain cleanliness and functionality of medical equipment, including code carts and emergency medical equipment.
• Apply bandages, slings, and other medical aids as directed by RN.
• Assist in transporting patients to departments or units as needed.
• Prepare the room environment for patient admission and restock supplies as directed.
• Provide direct hygiene and comfort care to patients, including bathing and toileting.
• Assist patients with dressing and monitor the return of their belongings.
• Document patient weights and intake/output observations.
• Provide a safe patient environment by responding promptly to call lights and communicating changes in condition to the RN.
• Modify and deliver care specific to the needs of the patient population served, including age, culture, and language considerations.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or Equivalent.
• Completion of a Certified Nursing Assistant, Medical Assistant, or Patient Care Technician program, or Fundamentals of Nursing program from an accredited school.
• AHA Basic Health Care Life Support HCP Certification within 60 days of hire.
• Experience or certification in phlebotomy and checking EKG, vital signs, and blood sugar preferred.
• At least one year of PCT or CNA experience in a hospital setting strongly preferred.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in a hospital setting as a Patient Care Technician or Certified Nursing Assistant.
• Certification in phlebotomy and EKG monitoring.

Benefits

• Competitive benefits package including health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
• Supportive work environment focused on teamwork and collaboration.