PCT at CARLE

The Inpatient Unit (IPU) is committed to our Nursing Professional Practice Model; we believe in caring relationships with our patients, families, community, and colleagues to provide exceptional care. On the IPU, our dedicated nursing staff, nurse leaders, interdisciplinary team members, and physician partners practice on a critical access hospital unit. On this unit, specialized medical/nursing care is provided to our acute patients. Rehabilitative care is also provided to our swing bed patients. Medical diagnoses for our acute care patients include but are not limited to pneumonia, heart failure, cellulitis and urinary tract infection. Rehabilitative services for our swing bed patients include but are not limited to physical/occupational/speech therapy, wound care management, nutritional therapy and IV antibiotic therapy. Care is provided by a highly-trained staff utilizing the most current technology and equipment. The IPU is fast-paced, exciting, and always evolving. Under the direction of a Registered Nurse (RN), the Health Care Technician (HCT) functions as a support to the licensed nursing staff and performs activities related to the personal care and hygiene needs of an assigned patient group. Facilitates communication with other departments, visitors, patients, medical staff and employees. Serves as a public relations liaison for the unit. Works under the direct supervision of the nursing manager.

• Assists with the maintenance of unit supplies to ensure the smooth function of the unit, including stocking nurse servers, cleaning instruments and equipment, ordering supplies, and making up charts.
• Collects data on assigned patients as directed by Registered Nurse (RN) and ensures accurate documentation.
• Demonstrates competency in selected psychomotor skills as outlined in the skills checklist including: measurement of vital signs, blood glucose monitoring, and measuring and recording intake and output.
• Performs or assists patients with the activities of daily living. Prepares patients for transportation and/or transport.

• Completes the unit specific HCT Safety Checklist at the beginning of each shift
• Receives delegated responsibilities from RN each shift and maintains close communication during shift regarding completion of tasks/responsibilities
• Completes and documents basic patient care independently: including but not limited to baths, vital signs, accuchecks and meal trays
• Maintains patient safety as the highest priority level: ensuring safety measure compliance such as fall precautions, pressure ulcer prevention, isolation precautions and patient ambulation safety
• Maintains a positive attitude at all times on unit that promotes a healthy work environment and a healing patient environment
• Keeps a diligent focus on prompt answering of patient call lights to ensure effective triage and completion of patient requests/medical needs