The Patient Care Assistant (PCA) works under the supervision of the Registered Nurse and is responsible for assisting in the care and preparation of surgical patients while ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction. The PCA provides patient care by physician orders, hospital policies, and patient care standards while maintaining respect and dignity for all patients. All duties are performed in alignment with the vision and values of the organization, with a focus on cost-effective and high-quality care.
Education:
High School graduate or equivalent.
Licenses and Certifications:
Must successfully complete and maintain BLS certification.
Must successfully complete and maintain LA County Fire Card certification at the time of hire or within the first 30 days of employment.
Experience:
2-5 years of operating room experience in an acute care setting is preferred.
Medical Assistant training is preferred.
General Responsibilities: This position plays an essential role in ensuring the smooth and safe operation of surgical services while providing compassionate care to patients. These essential job functions include, but may not be limited to:
Adhere to hospital and departmental policies, performance improvement programs, infection control, legal, safety, and environmental standards, as well as the Patient’s Bill of Rights.
Demonstrate knowledge of the surgical environment, including unrestricted, semi-restricted, and restricted areas, air exchanges, positive pressure environment, and adherence to the surgical dress code.
Collaborate with the Charge Nurse in the orientation and training of new staff and students.
Review the daily surgical schedule, ensuring the appropriate equipment is ready in the OR.
Communicate with the Charge Nurse about changes, concerns, or issues with equipment, supplies, or patient care throughout the day.
Assist the surgical team in safely positioning patients for surgery, following the surgeon's direction.
Participate in projects assigned by the Charge Nurse, Manager, or designee.
Transport patients to and from surgery, ensuring proper patient identification and safety protocols.
Assist in handling specimens, blood products, and amputations per hospital procedures.
Demonstrate understanding of electrical safety, checking equipment, addressing issues, and ensuring alarms are audible and operational.
Restock supplies in the Operating Room as needed.
Assist with room turnover, including cleaning and preparing equipment and gurneys after each use.
Exhibit a positive, cooperative attitude when interacting with the healthcare team.
Demonstrate an understanding of performance improvement methods and actively participate in these initiatives.
Collaborate with the Charge Nurse to identify and pursue career development and educational opportunities.
Perform other related duties as assigned or requested.
