ABOUT NCH
NCH is an independent, locally governed non-profit delivering premier comprehensive care. Our healthcare system is comprised of two hospitals, an alliance of 700+ physicians, and medical facilities in dozens of locations throughout Southwest Florida that offer nationally recognized, quality health care.
NCH is transforming into an Advanced Community Healthcare System(TM) and we’re proud to: Provide higher acuity care and Centers of Excellence; Offer Graduate Medical Education and fellowships; Have endowed chairs; Conduct research and participate in national clinical trials; and partner with other health market leaders, like Hospital for Special Surgery, Encompass, and ProScan.
Join our mission to help everyone live a longer, happier, healthier life. We are committed to care and believe there's always more at NCH - for you and every person we serve together. Visit nchjobs.org to learn more.
JOB SUMMARY
The Patient Safety Tech supports the nursing staff by providing direct observation of patients on a continuous basis while on duty. He/she is accountable to the registered nurse/charge nurse responsible for coordinating unit activities and will receive assignment from the Staffing office. The Patient Safety Tech provides excellent services to all customers and communicates effectively with team members.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Other duties may be assigned.
· Receive report on a patient from the charge nurse and receives the PST Assignment form, PST flow sheet form and patient handoff form.
· Introduce self to patient and tactfully explains responsibilities.
· Remain in the patient room unless given approval to leave by RN.
· Patient should be kept busy during the shift through interactions including reading, talking, games (cards, simple board games, nighttime activities may include reading, comforting, reassuring).
· Read memos and communication boards and emails.
· Observe patient and notify the RN immediately in the event of an emergency or sudden change in the patient’s condition, mood or behavior.
· View of patient must be unobstructed. PST is to place chair between door and patient and remain physically close without disrupting the patient’s physical space. Maintain observation during restroom use and trips for testing procedures.
· Identify barriers to communication with patient and collaborates with nurse to improve communication if possible.
· Monitor the environment for safety: be sure safety alarms are on and that the room is free from unsafe items like sharp objects, cords, glass, metal cans, etc. and that there is no clutter or things that someone could trip on. Observe and report changes in patient condition to nurse immediately.
· Ambulate and assist the patient in and out of bed/chair with approval from the charge nurse/RN.
· Set up food tray for meals for patients who can self-feed.
· Remain alert at all times. Cell phone use, texting and heavy reading are prohibited.
· Notify housekeeping if there is excessive trash in the room.
· Document on PST Flow Sheet hourly and submits all forms to the RN at the end of the shift.
· Complete unit evaluation form and the break form and submit to the staffing office in person or by faxing it at the end of the shift.
EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS
· Minimum of High School or GED required.
· Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required from the American Red Cross or American Heart Association.
· Basic computer knowledge: ability to operate a PC, create/save/print documents, input data.
