Summary

Responsible for attending to the needs of an assigned group of patients and aiding the licensed nursing personnel and physician in the care of patients by performing various patient care activities and related non-professional services. Models appropriate behavior as exemplified in MLH Mission, Vision and Values.

Education/Experience/Licensure

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Successful completion orientation.
• Ability to read, write, and understand verbal or written instructions.
• Ability to effectively communicate verbally with others.
• Abiltiy to maintain confidentialty at all times according to policy and procedure and HIPAA requirements.
• Demonstrates compassion and patience with a deep level of concern for patients.
• Must be able to communicate effectively and in a positive manner with patients, family, public, and other health care workers.
• Must be able to cope with stressful situations, including death and dying and dealing with anguished relatives.
• Comply with Safety/Emergency Procedures and Nursing Service policies.
• Ability to use equipment required for implementing patient care.
• Adhere to Methodist Healthcare Systems’ code of conduct.

Key Job Responsibilities

• Assists with patient care as directed by the Charge/Registered Nurse.
• Initiates and reassesses vital signs including pulse oximetry. Documents and reports findings to nurse.
• Effectively/correctly positions patients for examinations and procedures and assists with transportation of patients. Ensures proper identification of patients.
• Performs phlebotomy in a professional manner according to protocol and safety standards.
• After successful completion of orthopedic class provided by CES, provides orthopedic services to the patient according to providers’ orders. Demonstrates competence in designated orthopedic skills (i.e., application of splint, and/or removal of plaster or fiberglass splints/casts as ordered)
• Performs additional job functions in a timely fashion and documents on clinical care and pertinent observations on appropriate records such as performing EKGs in accordance with policy and procedure.
• Demonstrates and promotes professional practice of all members of the care team.
• Completes mandatory and unit specific competency requirements.
• Performs other job functions as assigned or requested.

Physical Requirements

• The physical activities of this position may include climbing, pushing, standing, hearing, walking, reaching, grasping, kneeling, stooping, and repetitive motion.
• Must have good balance and coordination.
• The physical requirements of this position are: medium work - exerting up to 50 lbs. of force occasionally and/or up to 25 lbs. of force frequently.
• The Associate is required to have close visual acuity including color, depth perception, and field of vision to perform an activity, such as assessing patients, preparing and analyzing data and figures; transcribing; viewing a computer terminal; or extensive reading.
• Frequent invasive and non-invasive patient contact.
• Exposure to patient body fluids as well as exposure to hazardous or poisonous materials.
• Ability to react quickly to emergency situations.