Patient Care Associate I

Patient Care Associate

The primary role of the Patient Care Associate (PCA), is to protect, sustain, and nurture the patients that live at the Center. They provide assistance with activities of daily living, care of the patient's environment, and meet other needs as required. The goal of the work of the Patient Care Associate, is to provide assistance that promotes a high quality of life for the patients. The Patient Care Associate, works as a member of a team that seeks to achieve a home like setting while maintaining excellence in all areas of care.

In addition, the Patient Care Associate, will demonstrate a strong commitment to the philosophy and mission of Hebrew SeniorLife and recognize patient's dignity and choice in all aspects of daily life. They are an active participant in the activities, work, and social environment of the floors/households, and strive to make every patient encounter into a positive and meaningful experience and opportunity, while ensuring the provision of safe and efficient quality care.

Core Competencies

• Demonstrates empathy and compassion with all interactions with patients and with families
• Articulates importance of supporting independence and patient choice when caring for patients
• Demonstrates strong communication skills and ability to foster teamwork
• Articulates commitment to excellence and high quality care
• Articulates the importance of accountability and personal ownership related to teamwork and patient care

Position Responsibilities

Recognize and respond to the needs of the patients and families Recognize and communicate changes in the patient's condition to the appropriate nursing team member Adhere to Safe Patient Handling practices, i.e. maintain a no manual lift environment Participate in Quality Improvement programs Assist patients with all aspects of personal care as indicated in the care plans Document pertinent information regarding care delivered in the designated areas of the patient's electronic medical record Report accidents and incidents as they occur Report any observed or suspected patient abuse immediately Observe and report skin integrity Participate in daily report team and care planning meetings as needed Be proficient in obtaining vital signs and other procedures such as temperature, pulse, respirations, blood pressure, weight, pulse oximetry and urine and stool specimens as directed Follow infection control practices Attend and participate in ongoing training and educational classes Maintain confidentiality and privacy of the patient according to HIPPA regulations Communicate effectively with peers, other team members, patients and families Facilitate life enrichment activities that encourage patient engagement Maintain cleanliness of the patient's room and common program areas Prepare, serve, and clean up after meals and snacks Participate in committee meetings Other duties as assigned and trained to perform

Qualifications

• Long term chronic care PCA and MCU PCA: Certified Nursing Assistant certification is preferred in good standing upon hire or current enrollment in a nursing school, having completed first clinical experience.
• RSU PCA: Certified Nursing Assistant certification is required in good standing upon hire and on-going.
• Fluent English skills required verbal and written
• Computer literacy required
• Flexibility and ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Must complete mandatory HSL/HRC educational requirements and programs
• Pass PCA skills test with 70% or greater

Physical Requirements

• Please refer to the Physical Requirements sheets in Occupational Health

Hebrew SeniorLife is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.