Patient Care Associate — Apprenticeship Path to PCT

Mercy; Fort Smith (AR); On-site; USD 19,000 - 25,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision coverage

Tuition support

Retirement plan matching

Job summary

Mercy in Fort Smith, AR, is seeking a Patient Care Associate (PCA) to assist nurses, obtain vital signs, and support patient care tasks under supervision. The role supports mobility, meals, hygiene, and transport, with potential to advance to a Patient Care Technician (PCT) and beyond.

Training includes an accredited Department of Labor Apprenticeship Program; for individuals with no prior experience, a 175-hour training program is provided during new-hire orientation, with BLS within one month

Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma, G.E.D, CNA/CPTC, or enrolled in a healthcare career program.
• Experience: None required.
• Minimum Physical Requirements: ability to push/pull 50 pounds, prolonged standing/walking, bending/kneeling/twisting.
• Preferred Certifications: CNA.

Responsibilities

• Obtain vital signs and document in EMR.
• Assist with patient care needs (meals, bathing, toileting, mobility, transport).
• Clerical support duties as needed.
• PCA progression to PCT duties (phlebotomy, enteral feeding, wound care, IV/Foley removal, trach care).

Education

High school diploma / G.E.D / CNA/CPTC, or enrolled in a healthcare career program

Job description

Mercy in Fort Smith, AR, is seeking a Patient Care Associate (PCA) to assist nurses, obtain vital signs, and support patient care tasks under supervision. The role supports mobility, meals, hygiene, and transport, with potential to advance to a Patient Care Technician (PCT) and beyond.

Training includes an accredited Department of Labor Apprenticeship Program; for individuals with no prior experience, a 175-hour training program is provided during new-hire orientation, with BLS within one month