Nurse Assistant/Unit Secretary, Med Surg

Sutter Health•Burlingame, CA

About The Position

The Nurse Assistant/Unit Secretary performs routine patient care and support services alongside specialized clerical and administrative duties within the legal scope of practice and the assigned nursing unit’s standards, policies, and procedures. The role builds cooperation with patients, their families or support groups, and other healthcare providers; prioritizes and completes varied tasks in a timely manner; and complies with applicable regulations and procedures to protect patient privacy and safety. The position may also perform specific additional tasks and orient other staff. Responsibilities combine direct nursing support with unit administration. Patient care includes vital signs, specimen collection, admission, transfer and discharge procedures, and basic assistance with nutrition, elimination, hygiene, and mobility. Administrative work includes coordinating patient-care activities, managing communications and records, supporting meetings and schedules, and assisting staff with electronic medical record and other systems. The role also maintains a safe work environment, supports equipment quality control, and follows patient privacy, care, medication, and continuing-education requirements.

Requirements

High school diploma or General Education Diploma (GED).
Basic Life Support (BLS) certification for Healthcare Provider.
One year of recent relevant experience as a CNA.

Responsibilities

Provide appropriate direct patient care.
Perform selected procedures, including taking vital signs, collecting specimens, and completing admission, transfer, and discharge procedures.
Provide basic patient care relating to nutrition, elimination, hygiene, and mobility.
Complete routine and priority tasks within established departmental time frames.
Maintain equipment and understand procedures and treatments performed by physicians.
Explain examinations, tests, and medical procedures to patients clearly and professionally to help alleviate fear and anxiety.
Mentor and foster a constructive learning environment for students and new employees.
Perform clerical and administrative tasks, establish work priorities, and create documents such as letters, memorandums, manuals, and reports.
Direct and coordinate the flow and timing of patient-care activities and procedures; assist with admissions, discharges, and transfers; and serve as a point of contact for patients and families.
Receive and screen calls, messages, mail, email communications, and visitors.
Compile charts by obtaining orders, test results, laboratory results, reports, and clearances, and scan information into the electronic health record.
Coordinate meetings and provide logistical support, including equipment and scheduling; prepare notices, agendas, and minutes for departmental meetings.
Manage calendars and departmental schedules, coordinate activities, and prepare for meetings and events.
Prepare reports, summaries, and replies to inquiries using relevant information from various sources.
Maintain databases and enter and audit data.
Assist department staff with the electronic medical record and other systems; potentially serve as a resource for computer-related issues.
Coordinate projects, create documents independently, and prioritize needs.
Potentially maintain timekeeping records and function as timekeeper.
Maintain a clean, neat, and safe working environment, including cleaning and disinfecting equipment after each procedure.
Inspect and calibrate equipment, record quality-control results, and report malfunctions to the supervisor.
Protect patient protected health information from accidental, intentional, or inappropriate disclosure and maintain strict confidentiality.
Provide quality care in compliance with department standards, policies, procedures, and applicable local, state, and federal requirements.
Prepare, administer, and document medications and treatments in accordance with state and federal regulations.
Maintain certification and complete required continuing education to meet accreditation and licensure requirements.