Nursing Assistant/Patient Care Technician - 8A Neuro ICU

at  UPMC

TITLE AND STARTING PAY RATE OF THIS POSITION MAY VARY BASED ON YEARS OF EXPERIENCE. THOSE WITHOUT PATIENT CARE EXPERIENCE WILL BE BROUGHT IN AT THE NURSING ASSISTANT TITLE/SALARY. SALARY RANGE AS SHOWN IS FOR A PATIENT CARE TECHNICIAN.

ICU8 is an 18 bed critical care unit dedicated to the comprehensive care of patients with acute and critical Neurological conditions. Recognizing the complexity and sensitivity of neurologic disorders, our ICU is equipped with advanced technology and staffed by a multidisciplinary team of highly trained professionals. Our dedicated team of healthcare professionals includes neurologists, neurosurgeons, intensivists, nurses with specialized training in neurological care, respiratory therapists, physical and occupational therapists, and clinical pharmacists. This interdisciplinary approach ensures a holistic and collaborative strategy in managing complex neurological cases. Understanding the emotional and psychological impact of neurological illnesses, our team is committed to fostering a compassionate and supportive environment for both patients and their families. Regular communication, education, and involvement in the decision-making process are integral components of our patient-centered approach. We work closely with other departments and healthcare providers to ensure a seamless continuum of care. Collaboration with rehabilitation services, outpatient clinics, and community resources is prioritized to support patients in their journey to recovery beyond the ICU. ICU8 stands as a beacon of hope and healing for those facing critical neurological challenges, delivering world-class care with compassion and dedication.
The Nursing Assistant and Patient Care Technician provides routine patient care and supports the department services in accordance with established policies and procedures, and may be directed by the nurse or physician to assure that the highest degree of quality patient care can be maintained at all times. Must routinely perform the UPMC nursing core nursing assistant responsibilities including ADLs (bathing, feeding, transporting, toileting, ambulating, turning and repositioning patients. PLUS point of care testing (inc. blood glucose), weights, vital signs, I&O, telemetry monitor application/reapplication, HAC & PSI prevention (TEDs/SCDs), clean catch/mini catheter urine collection. In addition, Patient Care Technicians can apply simple dressings, 12 lead EKG, bladder scan, all specimen collections. All competencies must be achieved.
Candidates without previous PCT experience in a hospital-based setting will be required to attend a 10 day mandatory training course. This course is held during weekdays and daylight hours. All 10 days are mandatory and are scheduled in a structured classroom setting.

• Provides patient care including assisting with patient procedures and activities of daily living.
• Assists with physical, respiratory and cardiopulmonary therapies.
• Provides feedback to the RN regarding patient care and reports changes in patient status.
• Performs the UPMC nursing core nursing assistant responsibilities (blood glucose, weights, vital signs, I&O, specimen collections and Foley care) AND at least four of the following BU identified tasks: phlebotomy, 12 lead EKG, simple dressing, Foley catheter removal, point of care testing, bladder scan, straight catheter, or IV catheter removal.
• Assures equipment malfunctions are reported to the appropriate department.
• Establishes appropriate and effective communication with other departments.
• Establishes professional and respectful interpersonal relationships.
• Contributes to the universal unit activities including, but not limited to, responding to call lights and telephones, passing meal trays and transporting patients.
• Constructively receives feedback and direction.
• Identifies and communicates learning needs to the unit director.
• Takes action to improve knowledge, skills and performance.
• Requests assistance in planning and prioritizing activities as needed.
• Participates in self-review as requested by the unit director.
• Provides instruction to patients and their families under the direction of the RN.
• May apply, monitor and remove patient restraints as per physician or hospital protocol.
• Demonstrates the ability to communicate clearly and effectively with all members of the health care team.
• Demonstrate understanding of cultural diversity, horizontal violence and impairment in the health professions.
• Cares for patients and self by supporting safety in the workplace.
• Develops and maintains productive working relationships internally and externally by demonstrating accountability for actions, enthusiasm, motivation and commitment to patients and colleagues.
• Strictly adheres to all policies and procedures relative to patient care and hospital related information.
• Complies with safety policies and procedures including standard precautions.
• Suggests and supports changes within the department.
• Assumes responsibility for assignment and views problems as challenges.
• Demonstrates awareness of behavior on the efficient functioning of the department.
• Supports department based projects and quality initiatives.
• Documents in the medical record according to established procedures.
• Performs assigned work in a timely and productive manner.
• Completes department clerical functions as needed.
• Must routinely perform the UPMC nursing core nursing assistant responsibilities including ADLs (bathing, feeding, transporting, toileting, ambulating, turning and repositioning patients. PLUS point of care testing (inc. blood glucose), weights, vital signs, I&O, telemetry monitor application/reapplication, HAC & PSI prevention (TEDs/SCDs). In addition, simple dressings, placement and removal of restraints, bladder scan, all specimen collections and ticket to ride. All competencies must be achieved.
• Performs in accordance with system-wide competencies/behaviors.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• In addition to the required standard competencies, the Patient Care Technician will achieve and maintain competency and/or perform at least 1 or more of the following advanced skills based on department operational need: phlebotomy/venipuncture, peripheral IV removal, indwelling Foley catheter removal, basic arrythmia, 12-lead EKG, and NG tubes clamping and removal.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Must also have one of the below for PCT level:
• 1 Year of general healthcare experience
• 6 months of experience as UPMC Nursing Assistant/CNA with PCT competency achieved within 120 days of hire/transfer/promotion
• Enrollment in PT/OT/PA program or related healthcare training program with completion of at least one clinical rotation
• Completion of a Bachelor’s degree in a health sciences field.
• Successful completion of UPMC patient care technician class
• Successful completion of basic information system training.
• Microcomputer experience preferred.
• Ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing.
• Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or Paramedic or currently enrolled in an EMT or Paramedic program preferred.
• Access to medications is limited to the distribution of the medication to the nurse.