About the job
The Patient Care Technician embodies the mission, vision, and values of Northwestern Memorial. They uphold the organization's Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, while adhering to all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines, and regulatory standards.
This role primarily involves assisting and supporting the Professional Registered Nurse in various direct and indirect patient care activities. The Patient Care Technician operates as an integral part of the unit staff under the direction and supervision of the Registered Nurse.
Key Responsibilities:
- Direct Patient Care Activities
- Facilitates the admission, transfer, and discharge processes.
- Measures and records vital signs including temperature, pulse, respiration, weight (for adults and/or neonates), height, and blood pressure.
- Manages intake and output measurements, including output from drains.
- Applies cardiac monitors and oximetry.
- Conducts EKGs.
- Ensures compliance with infant security protocols.
- Performs newborn hearing screenings.
- Executes capillary blood glucose tests for adults and/or neonates.
- Conducts phlebotomy procedures.
- Applies fetal monitoring equipment as necessary.
- Discontinues heplocks and Foley catheters, and administers enemas.
- Collects specimens (urine, stool, blood, and sputum) from patients.
- Proactively makes rounds to anticipate patient needs and observes newborns in the nursery.
- Responds promptly to patient call lights, especially emergencies.
- Distributes fresh drinking water and nourishment to patients, assists with meal preparation and feeding as needed.
- Provides personal care, including bed baths and morning/evening care, following established nursing procedures.
- Offers comprehensive newborn care including bathing, dressing, obtaining footprints, and assisting with feeding.
- Maintains cleanliness and organization of patient rooms.
- Assists patients with ambulation and proper use of mobility aids.
- Participates in pre-and post-operative care, positioning patients as per instructions, and applying safety measures.
- Sets up oxygen and suction equipment, as well as other respiratory aids.
- Applies dressings for Stage I and Stage II skin breakdowns.
- Prepares patient rooms for assessments and procedures.