Patient Care Technician - Virtual

SUMMARY:

This position will provide continuous remote observation of assigned patients. The first line of action will be to verbally redirect the patient from engaging in any at risk behaviors. Next will be to summon the nursing staff if the patient requires assistance. Virtual safety attendants will be knowledgeable and abide by patient and institutional confidentiality and related hospital policies.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Maintains confidentiality and always protects sensitive data, including patient information, proprietary information, and personnel information.

• Demonstrates understanding and proficiency of the use of the AvaSure TeleSitter® software.

• Always maintains visual observation. Verbally redirects patients over digital 2-way audio and video devices that are inpatient rooms. Immediately summons the nursing staff if the patient requires assistance.

• Demonstrates the knowledge and skill necessary to provide the appropriate observation to the patient population requiring TeleSitter monitoring.

• Participates in report with on-coming virtual safety attendants when arriving for shift, and upon completion of shift. Reviews pertinent patient information and behaviors.

• Provides patients with explanations as necessary but does not counsel or provide opinions.

• Provides floor staff with information in a timely fashion when patients appear to pose a threat to themselves or others.

• Participates in collaborative identification and reporting of patient safety issues.

• Assures patient environment safety. 
• Seeks assistance with removal of any potential safety hazard from room and reports findings to appropriate staff members.

• Demonstrates safe work practice and attitude, follows safety rules, works to prevent unsafe conditions and behaviors, and participates in organizational and department safety programs.

• Maintains patient dignity and privacy.
• Promotes a safe, therapeutic environment.
• May be required to perform functions in the capacity of a non-virtual Patient Care Tech if needed.
• Adheres to TMCH organizational and department-specific safety, confidentiality, values, policies, and standards. 

·         Performs related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION: High school diploma or general education degree (GED), or an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience. 

EXPERIENCE:  One (1) year of patient care experience, preferably in an acute care setting; or no experience if completed one semester of clinicals in an acute care setting in an accredited nursing program, or completed a formal Patient Care Tech (PCT) program, or obtained a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification, or obtained a Licensed Nursing Assistant (LNA) licensure.

LICENSURE OR CERTIFICATION: Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required.  Additional certifications may be required per department.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:  

·         Knowledge of patient care protocols and practices.

·         Knowledge of general patient care practice, methods, and regulations.

·         Knowledge of patient privacy regulations.

·         Capable of continuous monitoring of up to 16 patients at one time and always remains alert while on duty.

·         Ability to communicate effectively with patients using a microphone, headset, and webcam.

·         Ability to communicate with hospital staff and respond quickly to patient behavioral changes.

·         Ability to use discretion and courtesy when working with patients, visitors, and staff.

·         Basic computer operation skills

·         Basic Microsoft windows experience

·         Efficiency in multitasking

·         Ability to prioritize simultaneous situations.