Healthcare Tech- Surgical Nursing Unit

Carle Health•Normal, IL

16h

About The Position

The Health Care Technician (HCT) supports licensed nursing staff under the direction of a Registered Nurse (RN), providing personal care and hygiene assistance to an assigned group of patients. The HCT facilitates communication among departments, visitors, patients, medical staff, and employees, and serves as a public relations liaison for the unit. The position works under the direct supervision of the nursing manager. The HCT collects and documents patient data, performs basic patient care, and helps maintain a safe, orderly, well-stocked unit. The role also supports patient transportation, admissions, and discharges, with particular attention to the Observation patient population and prompt responses to patient call lights.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association within 30 days.
At least one of the following: work as a CNA within the past 24 months; successful completion of Carle's HCT In Training Program; relevant medical military training; completion of CNA coursework within the past 24 months; Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA); or at least one semester of nursing clinical experience.

Responsibilities

Maintain unit supplies and support unit operations, including stocking nurse servers, cleaning instruments and equipment, ordering supplies, and preparing charts.
Collect data on assigned patients as directed by an RN and ensure accurate documentation.
Perform selected psychomotor skills, including measuring vital signs, monitoring blood glucose, and measuring and recording intake and output.
Perform or assist patients with activities of daily living and personal care.
Prepare patients for transportation and/or transport them.
Complete the HCT Safety Checklist at the beginning of each shift.
Receive delegated responsibilities from the RN each shift and maintain close communication about task completion and responsibilities.
Complete and document basic patient care independently, including baths, vital signs, accuchecks, and meal trays.
Prioritize patient safety by ensuring compliance with safety measures such as fall precautions, pressure ulcer prevention, isolation precautions, and safe patient ambulation.
Assist the team with high-volume patient admissions and discharges related to the Observation patient population.
Answer patient call lights promptly to triage and address patient needs effectively.
Maintain a positive attitude that promotes a healthy work environment and a healing patient environment.
Facilitate communication among departments, visitors, patients, medical staff, and employees, and serve as a public relations liaison for the unit.