Causal Patient Care Technician - Nursing Students Only - UPMC St. Margaret

UPMC St. Margaret, a four-time ANCC Magnet designated hospital recognized for excellence in Geriatric Care and Orthopedic Surgery , is currently offering a limited number of Patient Care Technician (PCT) positions on select inpatient units. These opportunities are specifically designed for nursing students who have completed at least one clinical rotation and are interested in gaining hands-on experience in a hospital setting.

Participating Units

• 3B – Step Down
• 4A – Acute Rehabilitation
• 4B – Orthopedic Surgery
• 5A – Oncology
• 5B – Pulmonary Medicine
• 6A – Surgical

This role offers a unique opportunity to work alongside experienced healthcare professionals, develop foundational clinical skills, and become familiar with the unit you may wish to join as a Registered Nurse in the future.

UPMC St. Margaret

• Magnet designation for nursing excellence — awarded four times
• Specialty focus in Geriatric Care and Orthopedic Surgery
• Collaborative and supportive work environment
• Not a trauma center; no labor and delivery services; pediatric care is not typical — ideal for those seeking adult and geriatric care experience

Qualifications:

• Current nursing students who have completed at least one clinical rotation
• Individuals interested in pursuing a career as a Registered Nurse at UPMC St. Margaret
• Candidates seeking meaningful patient care experience in a hospital setting

Position Summary

As a Patient Care Technician, you will assist in providing direct patient care under the supervision of a registered nurse. Responsibilities include supporting daily patient activities, monitoring vital signs, assisting with mobility and hygiene, and contributing to a safe and comfortable environment for patients. This is a valuable steppingstone for nursing students to gain exposure to inpatient care and prepare for future roles as professional nurses.

The final candidate will be placed in the appropriate title and salary based on experience and education.

Purpose:
The Patient Care Technician provides routine patient care and supports the department services in accordance with established policies and procedures, and may be directed by the nurse or physician to assure that the highest degree of quality patient care can be maintained at all times. Must routinely perform the UPMC nursing core nursing assistant responsibilities including ADLs (bathing, feeding, transporting, toileting, ambulating, turning and repositioning patients. PLUS point of care testing (inc. blood glucose), weights, vital signs, I&O, telemetry monitor application/reapplication, HAC & PSI prevention (TEDs/SCDs). In addition, simple dressings, placement and removal of restraints, bladder scan, all specimen collections and ticket to ride. All competencies must be achieved. In addition to the standard required competencies, the Patient Care Technician will achieve and maintain competency and/or perform at least 1 or more of the following advanced skills based on department operational need: phlebotomy/venipuncture, peripheral IV removal, indwelling Foley catheter removal, basic arrhythmia, 12 lead EKG, and NG tubes clamping and removal.

Responsibilities:

• Suggests and supports changes within the department. Assumes responsibility for assignment and views problems as challenges. Demonstrates awareness of behavior on the efficient functioning of the department. Supports department-based projects and quality initiatives.
• Must routinely perform the UPMC nursing core nursing assistant responsibilities including ADLs (bathing, feeding, transporting, toileting, ambulating, turning and repositioning patients. PLUS point of care testing (inc. blood glucose), weights, vital signs, I&O, telemetry monitor application/reapplication, HAC & PSI prevention (TEDs/SCDs). In addition, simple dressings, placement and removal of restraints, bladder scan, all specimen collections and ticket to ride. All competencies must be achieved.
• Assures equipment malfunctions are reported to the appropriate department. Establishes appropriate and effective communication with other departments. Establishes professional and respectful interpersonal relationships. Contributes to the universal unit activities including, but not limited to, responding to call lights and telephones, passing meal trays, and transporting patients.
• Constructively receives feedback and direction. Identifies and communicates learning needs to the unit director. Takes action to improve knowledge, skills, and performance. Request?s assistance in planning and prioritizing activities as needed. Participates in self-review as requested by the unit director.
• Demonstrates the ability to communicate clearly and effectively with all members of the health care team. Demonstrate understanding of cultural diversity, horizontal violence, and impairment in the health professions. Cares for patients and self by supporting safety in the workplace. Develops and maintains productive working relationships internally and externally by demonstrating accountability for actions, enthusiasm, motivation and commitment to patients and colleagues.
• Provides patient care including assisting with patient procedures and activities of daily living. Assists with physical, respiratory, and cardiopulmonary therapies. Provides feedback to the RN regarding patient care and reports changes inpatient status.
• Provides instruction to patients and their families under the direction of the RN. May apply, monitor, and remove patient restraints as per physician or hospital protocol.
• Strictly adheres to all policies and procedures relative to patient care and hospital related information. Complies with safety policies and procedures including standard precautions.
• Documents in the medical record according to established procedures. Performs assigned work in a timely and productive manner. Completes department clerical functions as needed.
• Performs in accordance with system-wide competencies/behaviors.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• In addition to the standard required competencies, the Patient Care Technician will achieve and maintain competency and/or perform at least 1 or more of the following advanced skills based on department operational need: phlebotomy/venipuncture, peripheral IV removal, indwelling Foley catheter removal, basic arrhythmia, 12 lead EKG, and NG tubes clamping and removal.