Hyperbaric Chamber Technician/Wound Medical Assistant - MedCentris

Definition and Role

Provides direct patient oversight while the patient is undergoing Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy or in the capacity as a Wound Medical Assistant; works collaboratively and under the direct supervision of a licensed provider; communicates effectively with co-workers, patients, family, and visitors; adheres to the policies and procedures of MedCentris; performs chamber and patient checklists as directed.

Job Responsibilities and Duties (HBO)

• Performs diagnosis checklist for all HBO patients to ensure appropriate documentation and required tests are completed and in the chart.
• Ensures insurance authorization is obtained for ordered treatments. Submits for authorization & re-authorizations or communicates with appropriate staff to obtain authorization when it is required.
• Educates and reviews HBO patient orientation checklist with patient prior to first dive. Ensure document is signed by both parties and placed in the EMR.
• Questions patients regarding any implanted devices and ensures devices are safe for HBO use.
• Ensures HBO consult/evaluation & treatment order is completed and signed by the ordering provider.
• Performs & maintains daily and weekly chamber checklists.
• Obtains vital signs pre and post treatment, including blood sugars if patient is diabetic.
• Notifies the provider of any vital signs outside of normal parameters.
• Performs pre-treatment/dive checklist for each patient prior to each dive & documents accordingly.
• Identifies items allowed and not allowed in the chamber. Re-educates patients as needed and documents accordingly.
• Safely operates the chamber and carries out the HBO treatment as ordered by the provider.
• Observes the patient and equipment during the treatment. Understands patients can never be left unattended while diving.
• Cleans/disinfects chamber and gurney between each patient use.
• Identifies potential emergencies; understands their responsibilities in each emergency and carries out the plan of action.
• Performs/completes required charting/documentation in a timely manner at the facility.
• Inventory control and ordering as directed by Clinical Coordinator or Program Director.
• Able to perform tasks involving physical activity, which may include lifting and carrying at least 50lbs, transferring and repositioning patients, and extensive bending and standing.
• Able to assist with the safe transport and transfer of patients by wheelchair or stretcher.
• Maintains the HBO schedule: schedules appointments; assists with appointment reminders; adjusts schedule as needed. Communicates all schedule changes with the Clinic manager and/or Provider.
• Attends and participates in meetings upon request, and continuing education.

Job Responsibilities and Duties

• Ability to communicate, work effectively and interact well with providers, colleagues and other healthcare professionals and always maintain employee and patient confidentiality in written, verbal, and electronic information.
• Demonstrates the ability to be effective, flexible, well organized and function well in stressful situations.
• Adheres to OSHA standards regarding infection control & blood borne pathogens.
• Attends annual review and department in-services as scheduled.
• Reports to work on time and scheduled and completes work within designated times as directed.
• Adheres to dress code and wears identification while on duty.
• Represents MedCentris in a positive and professional manner.
• Responds quickly and appropriately to supervisor’s request and carries out assignments with little need for direction.
  
  

Job Responsibilities and Duties (WMA)

• Observes, records and reports to supervising LPN/MD/NP/PA, the general physical and mental conditions of the patient, as well as changes in the patient’s condition.
• Administers prescribed medications and treatments, in accordance with the plan of treatment, as permitted by State and local regulations.
• Assists the LPN/MD/NP/PA in performing specialized procedures.
• Prepares equipment and materials for treatment and adheres to aseptic and/or sterile technique.
• Assists the patient with activities of daily living and in learning appropriate self-care techniques, including wound care dressing changes.
• Implements the nursing component of the patient’s plan of care.
• Assists the LPN/MD/NP/PA in teaching, supervising, and counseling the patient and family members, regarding the nursing care needs of the patient.  (Follow-up on the plan developed by the MD/NP/PA).   
• Prepare progress notes and clinical notes and incorporate them into the electronic medical record as indicated.
• Notifies LPN/MD/NP/PA or charge nurse of any problems identified in patient’s living environment, whether it is acute hospital, LTAC, Nursing home, or patient's home.
• Attends case conferences/interdisciplinary team meetings to discuss patient’s problems, treatment plans, patient progress and patient’s overall health status. 
• May perform routine venipuncture if written documentation of competency is in personnel record.  Must demonstrate competency in performing the procedure.   
• Performs wound care and dressing changes as directed by the MD/NP/PA. Including competency on advanced wound care dressings. i.e.:  TCC, dermal skin substitutes, compression wraps, etc.
• May receive orders from the MD/NP/PA and follow those orders, that are
• Within the realm of practice for a Medical Assistant, and within the standards of practice for the facility in which he/she is working in.
• Responsible for “all other duties assigned”.
• Completes any necessary paperwork and turns in on a daily basis as indicated. Including documentation within the company’s EHR.
• Perform photo documentation and picture taking of wounds. 
• Travel required to various clinic locations within a 60-mile radius of home clinic.
• This position may work in any of the following place of service: Clinic, Patient Homes, LTACH, Nursing Homes
  
  

Qualifications

• One year experience in a medical office or health care setting preferred.
• Typically, Mon-Fri (8am-5pm); flexibility required to accommodate facility & patient needs.
• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• CPR/BLS required.
• TB and Flu vaccination.
  
  

Physical Requirements

• Mobility and Lifting: Frequent sitting for extended periods of time; frequent standing; frequent lifting up to 25 pounds.
• Visual: Constant ability to read information, including close up; constant ability to use a computer screen; frequent use of good overall vision, including color perception.
• Dexterity: Constant eye and hand coordination and manual dexterity to write, operate a computer keyboard and finely manipulate small objects.
• Emotional/Psychological: Constant ability to make decisions and concentrate.