Casual Patient Care Technician (Nursing Student) - Medical ICU

UPMC•Pittsburgh, PA

7h•Onsite

About The Position

UPMC Shadyside is seeking a casual Patient Care Technician (Nursing Student) to join their Medical ICU (MICU) team. This role is open to nursing students who have completed at least one clinical rotation. The Patient Care Technician will provide essential patient care and support departmental services, working under the supervision of nurses or physicians to uphold high standards of patient care. The position involves rotating shifts, including daytime, evening, overnight, weekend, and holiday shifts, with expectations of working 12-hour shifts, potentially mixed with 8-hour shifts. UPMC Shadyside's MICU is the largest ICU, primarily caring for critically ill oncology medical, cardiac, and post-stem cell transplant patients, and often handles overflow from other hospital areas. The environment is team-oriented and can be hectic, involving procedures like tracheostomies and bronchoscopies at the bedside, and the use of ventilators, vasopressors, and CRRT machines. It is a rewarding environment for staff who thrive on challenges and problem-solving.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
1 year of experience OR Enrollment in PT/OT/PA program or related healthcare training program with completion of at least one clinical rotation OR Completion of a bachelor’s degree in a health sciences field.
Successful completion of UPMC patient care technician class or basic information system training.
Ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing.
Basic Life Support (BLS) OR Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is required based on AHA standards that include both a didactic and skills demonstration component within 30 days of hire.
Act 34

Nice To Haves

Microcomputer experience
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or Paramedic or currently enrolled in an EMT or Paramedic program

Responsibilities

Assist with daily living activities such as bathing, feeding, transporting, toileting, and ambulating patients under RN supervision.
Perform point-of-care testing including vital signs, blood glucose, weights, urine specimen collection, restraint placement & removal, I&O, telemetry monitor application/reapplication, HAC & PSI prevention (TEDs/SCDs), and Foley care.
Ensure a safe and clean environment by performing safety checks, organizing patient rooms, and managing equipment.
Change bed linens, ensure hallways are clear of equipment/returning equipment, and keep the unit tidy.
Acquire, distribute, and manage supplies and equipment.
Handle ordering, stocking, and setup of patient care items.
Provide feedback to RN, communicate effectively with healthcare team members, and maintain professional relationships.
Contribute to unit activities, such as responding to call lights and transporting patients.
Document patient information accurately and complete clerical tasks.
Adhere to safety policies, standard precautions, and procedures for bloodborne pathogens.
Deliver patient nourishments, fill water pitchers, and distribute patient mail.
Receive and act on feedback, identify learning needs, and participate in self-review.
Suggest and support departmental changes and improvements.
Strictly adhere to all policies and practices relative to patient care and hospital-related information.
Respond to emergent situations as needed.
Provide one-on-one supervision and companionship to patients.