Unit Secretary - Postpartum/Newborn Nursery - West Penn Hospital - Full Time

Highmark Health - Pittsburgh, PA

Full-time

Pittsburgh, PA

Insurance Carriers and Related Activities

About the position

The Unit Secretary for the Postpartum/Newborn Nursery at West Penn Hospital plays a crucial role in providing both secretarial and direct patient care duties for the designated unit. This position is essential in maintaining the medical records and ensuring that all patient care activities are documented accurately. The Unit Secretary will be responsible for a variety of tasks that support the healthcare team and enhance patient care. This includes documenting vital signs, weights, intake and output (I&O), restraints, specimen collection, and all other treatments as required. The role requires a high level of attention to detail and adherence to established policies and procedures, particularly when transcribing orders, which must be done under the supervision of a licensed nurse. The Unit Secretary must also communicate effectively with patients, families, physicians, and other healthcare team members to ensure that patient care is coordinated and efficient. In addition to these responsibilities, the Unit Secretary will perform clerical duties related to patient admissions, transfers, and discharges. This includes maintaining patient activity records, facilitating interdepartmental communications, and managing unit reception tasks. The position demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining a calm and professional demeanor in a fast-paced environment. The Unit Secretary will also be expected to perform other duties as assigned, contributing to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the unit.

Responsibilities

• Accurately documents vital signs, weights, I&O, restraints, specimen collection and all other treatments.
• Transcribes orders in accordance with policies and procedures subject to the approval of a licensed nurse, asking for clarification when necessary.
• Performs clerical duties related to admission, transfer and discharge, maintenance of patient activities for the records, interdepartmental communications and unit reception.
• Demonstrates effective communication (verbal and written) with patients, families, physicians and other healthcare team members regarding patient care.
• Performs other duties as assigned or required.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED; or six months to one year related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• CPR certification.
• 1 year of patient care and/or administrative experience.
• Knowledge of medical terminology.

Nice-to-haves

• Previous unit secretary experience or graduate of an approved unit secretary program.
• Experience as a PCA or EMT.