Patient Care Technician

PURPOSE AND SCOPE:

Functions as part of the dialysis healthcare team in providing safe and effective dialysis therapy for patients under the direct supervision of a licensed nurse. Responsible for the setup and operation of hemodialysis machines and maintaining a safe and clean working environment. Engages in Quality Enhancement Program (QEP) and Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Activities.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Patient Related

Education:

• Assist in providing patient specific education regarding adequacy measures and disease process/access.

Treatment:

• Welcome assigned patients and inquire about their wellbeing since their last treatment.
• Evaluate vascular access for patency and perform cannulation and heparin administration as delegated.
• Obtain necessary pre and post treatment vital signs and weight.
• Initiate dialysis treatment according to prescribed orders.
• Monitor patients’ response to dialysis therapy.
• Document all relevant functions necessary for treatment discontinuation.
• Perform pre and post dialysis evaluation, weight, and vital signs.
• Ensure appropriate safety alarms are enabled.
• Document and report any significant information about patient condition to the nurse.
• Perform and document interventions for unusual patient status.
• Obtain prescribed laboratory testing and prepare specimens for collection.

Staff Related

• Assist in training direct patient care staff under the supervision of a nurse.

Education/Communication:

• Follow all organization business policies and ensure areas are clean and safe.
• Conduct necessary tasks for dialysis treatment preparation and document appropriately.

Record Keeping:

• Participate in Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) activities and ensure accuracy in treatment data documentation.

Infection Control:

• Assist in infection control audits and education under supervision.

Transitional Care Unit:

• Coordinate care for newly admitted patients and assist with understanding dialysis options.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions:

• Includes patient interaction, travel between facilities, and exposure to healthcare environments.

Education and Licenses:

• High School diploma or G.E.D. required. Must meet certification requirements.

Experience and Required Skills:

• Previous patient care experience preferred. Completion of dialysis training program required.