Observation Unit / Emergency Room Technician 1

Overview

This position is responsible for providing patient care and assists health care providers in performing assigned patient procedures within scope of training. Position receives general supervision from RN, APN, PA, or Physician in providing patient care.

Responsibilities

Patient Care* Under general supervision of the RN, APN, PA, or Physician, performs assigned procedures including, but not limited to: electrocardiogram testing (EKG); wound cleansing; initial, repeat and orthostatic vital sign measurements; application of monitor leads, specimen collection, and transports stable telemetry or non-monitored patients to nursing units, performs blood glucose testing; phlebotomy; saline lock insertion; IV discontinuation

*Sets up, prepares patient and assists with patient exam and minor surgical or health procedures within scope of training such as, but not limited to: lumbar punctures; sterile instrument and field preparation, suturing lacerations, chest tube insertion, closed fracture reduction, gastric lavage, pelvic examinations, restraint application, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Applies orthopedic devices, to include premanufactured and plaster splints under physician direction

*Performs specimen collection, ensuring accuracy in identification and integrity by using appropriate techniques for all age criteria as required by Lab. Where state statute permits, performs point of care testing for blood glucose, hemoccult and gastroccult or other tests, and performs quality control checks on point of care equipment as required. .

Communication*Position receives general supervision from RN, APN, PA, or Physician and other appropriate licensed health professionals. Position uses problem solving skills and provides effective communication with patients, patient families, health care providers and ancillary departments within the organization to provide quality patient care.

*Provides communication and updates to RN, Physician or other providers related to perceived reactions or changes to patients’ condition. Accurately records information in the patient record, documents vital signs and procedures completed, as well as the equipment and techniques utilized.

Reporting and Documentation* Assess and reports any unusual findings to RN and/or Dr, with appropriate documentation.

• Accurately documents vital signs, procedures completed and any changes in conditions in the patients chart.
• Implement clinical corrective actions within scope, and appropriately document in the EMR.

Stocking/Supplies* Monitors supply stock levels and reports needs. Notifies housekeeping, maintenance, biomedical engineering, and others to ensure proper equipment and a safe environment is maintained. Maintains appropriate levels of stock in medication room, exam room bedside carts, and specialty carts. Assists with health unit coordination tasks and reception responsibilities as needed.

Compliance/Safety* Stays current and complies with state and federal regulations/statutes and company policies that impact the employees area of responsibility.

• Ensures all certifications and/or licenses are up-to-date and valid prior to expiration dates.
• Completes all company mandatory modules and required job specific training in the specified time frame.
• Responsible for reporting any safety related incident in a timely fashion through the Midas/RDE tool; attends all safety related training programs; performs work in a safe manner; monitors work environment for possible safety issues and ensures others are also performing work in a safe manner.
• Attends department meetings and educational classes as required.

Qualifications

High School Diploma or GED - Required

BLS (American Heart Association) - RequiredCertified Nursing Assistant license or Arizona Certified Emergency Medical Technician- Required

Employee will obtain and maintain appropriate clinical competencies for the roles assigned by their departmental leader.

Previous Emergency Department experience - Preferred

Healthcare is a rapidly changing environment and technology is integrated into almost all aspects of patient care. Computers and other electronic devices are utilized across the organization and throughout each department. Colleagues must have an understanding of computers, and competence in using computers and basic software programs.