Unit Assistant

Hospital for Special Surgery • New York, NY

3d

About The Position

The Unit Assistant supports patient care and unit operations at Hospital for Special Surgery. The role helps maintain a safe, orderly, and comfortable environment; assists with patient and equipment transportation; and supports patient positioning for anesthetic blocks and surgical procedures under the guidance of an anesthesiologist and registered nurse. The Unit Assistant takes direction from the registered nurse or team leader throughout the shift and demonstrates compassionate, respectful communication with patients, families, and the health care team. This is a per-diem, part-time position with variable shifts. The listed base pay is $31.00 per hour, with eligibility for additional benefits consistent with the role.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED); specialized or vocational courses may be included.
• AHA Heartsaver certification.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong customer service orientation.

Nice To Haves

• One year of hospital or health care-related experience.

Responsibilities

• Respond promptly and compassionately to customer concerns.
• Safeguard the privacy and dignity of patients and families, and respect their social, cultural, and religious beliefs.
• Demonstrate the hospital's mission and values when interacting with patients, families, peers, and other health care team members.
• Follow infection-control and safety policies, including Standard Precautions, safe sharps handling and disposal, and basic aseptic technique.
• Perform assigned patient-care tasks safely and competently according to unit standards.
• Report punctually, maintain satisfactory attendance, manage time appropriately, and attend staff meetings or review meeting minutes.
• Maintain a professional appearance and follow the fingernail policy.
• Provide input to nursing management and be accountable for unit supplies, equipment, and environmental needs.
• Adapt positively to changing situations and work assignments.
• Maintain orderly patient-care areas, including corridors, exam rooms, utility rooms, equipment rooms, and supply shelves.
• Communicate effectively with patients, families, and the interdisciplinary team; resolve basic problems and refer issues beyond the role's authority or ability.
• Maintain emotional control in stressful situations.
• Transport patients, equipment, and related materials as requested or required by the unit; lock wheelchairs and stretchers during transfers and use stretcher rails and safety belts.
• Complete mandatory annual hospital, state, and Joint Commission in-services and participate in ongoing education and competency training.
• Keep required supplies stocked, including bags, cleaning supplies, gloves, suction canisters and tubing, and irrigation solutions.
• Recognize equipment needing repair and follow up with the appropriate personnel or department; know where supplies and equipment are located.
• Know the setups for table parts and positioning devices, including hand tables, bean bags, and tourniquets; obtain and return equipment promptly.
• Assist with positioning patients for anesthetic blocks and surgical procedures under the guidance of an anesthesiologist and registered nurse.
• Maintain a hazard-free environment by properly disposing of filled linen hampers and medical waste.

Benefits

• Additional benefits consistent with the role.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Education Level: High school or GED