JOB SUMMARY / PURPOSE
The Float Patient Care and Monitor Technician actively participates on the patient care team by providing basic bedside care, assisting patients with activities of daily living under the direction of the Registered Nurse, and performing non-clinical unit coordination. This role is also responsible for the continuous observation and documentation of cardiac rhythms, identification of any changes, and timely communication of pertinent information. Teamwork is a vital component to this role through effective collaboration efforts, consistent with established mission, vision, values, and organizational culture.
ESSENTIAL KEY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
This combined role encompasses responsibilities from both patient care and monitor technician functions, including but not limited to the following:
A. Patient Care & Support:
Treatment and Procedures:
Performs treatments and patient care procedures as directed by the RN.
Performs or assists with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) according to the Patient Plan of Care.
Performs or assists in procedures/treatments according to Nursing Policy and Procedure Manual.
Determines need for and properly implements safety measures for patients in a timely manner.
Responds to patient call lights and emergency lights in a timely manner.
Prepares patients for meals and snacks, offering assistance as needed.
Maintains a safe environment, following OSHA requirements including Universal Precautions.
Documenting Care:
Documents care provided according to hospital policy.
Documents ADLs, vital signs, and Intake & Output (I&Os) according to the plan of care.
Documents meals and snacks according to hospital policy.
As assigned, documents refrigerator/freezer temperatures.
Participates as assigned in CQI activities.
Providing Care:
Provides care according to developmental age.
Demonstrates skills and knowledge necessary for patient/customer care appropriate to neonate, child, adolescent, adult, and/or older adult.
B. Cardiac Monitoring & Coordination:
Continuous Cardiac Observation:
Observes telemetry screen continuously, looking away only for a few seconds (e.g., not doing detailed orders, reaching, etc.).
Uses knowledge of basic cardiac arrhythmia to interpret rhythm strips according to hospital policy.
Immediately reports significant monitor changes and documents the name of the person spoken to.
Telemetry Equipment Management:
Sets up telemetry equipment for new admissions according to established procedures.
Sets and maintains telemetry alarms as designated by physicians and/or hospital policy.
Information Management & Communication:
Coordinates patient flow (i.e., admissions, discharges, transfers, and tests/procedures).
Relays pertinent information to team members, charge nurse, and next shift in a timely manner.
Performs appropriately in crisis situations, relaying and obtaining information as needed.
Recognizes the importance of information received and prioritizes communication.
Receives and issues change of shift telemetry report.
Notifies the RN of abnormal vital signs, I&Os, and changes in the patient condition.
Communicates effectively with team members regarding patient status and monitoring changes.
C. General Unit Support & Professionalism:
Communication:
Expresses appropriate communication to patients, families, and other customers.
Identifies self to others in a professional manner.
Adheres to dress code and maintains a professional image with the ID badge clearly displayed.
Offers assistance and provides directions to customers, keeping a positive and courteous tone.
Unit Maintenance:
Maintains adequate unit supplies, mindful of cost and waste.
Flexibility:
Demonstrates flexibility in accomplishing work tasks.
Adheres to time and attendance policy.
Available and accessible when on duty.
Leaves for and returns from inservices, meals, and breaks as scheduled.
Accepts changes in staffing and patient assignments.
Emergency Procedures/Environment of Care:
Assists during emergency situations according to nursing and hospital policy.
Maintains a safe workplace environment.
Functions appropriately in emergencies according to assigned responsibilities and hospital policy.
Provides safety boundaries for patients at risk for violence.
D. Performance Requirements:
Scores a minimum of 85% on annual basic cardiac monitoring test.
Other duties as assigned by management.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Required Education: High School Diploma or equivalent.
Required Licensure and Certifications:
BLS (Basic Life Support) certification required within 30 days of hire.
Required Minimum Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Training:
Must possess demonstrated communication skills.
Excellent customer service skills.
Ability to deal effectively with multi-disciplinary team members/patients/significant others and physicians.
Demonstrates basic knowledge of cardiac arrhythmia interpretation or willingness to learn and achieve proficiency within an established timeframe.
Preferred Certifications:
STNA (State Tested Nursing Assistant) certification preferred but not required.