Patient Care Associate - Orthopedics, PRN

Mercy; Sunset Hills (MO); On-site; USD 21,000 - 28,000; Part time

Job summary

Mercy South Orthopedics is seeking a Patient Care Associate (PCA) / Patient Care Technician (PCT) to join a team focused on mobilization, pain management, and rehabilitation after knee/hip/spine procedures. This role supports patient care and may include clerical duties, with training pathways available.

The unit emphasizes teamwork, with a structured onboarding and a pathway from PCA training to competency development. This PRN position offers flexible scheduling and benefits for eligible staff.

Qualifications

• High school diploma, GED, CNA/CPTC certification, or enrollment in a healthcare career program.
• Current Mercy co-workers are also eligible.
• No prior experience required.

Responsibilities

• Record vital signs and enter data into the electronic medical record.
• Assist patients with daily needs (meals, bathing, toileting, mobility, transportation).
• Provide clerical support as needed.
• For PCT: perform phlebotomy and collect blood cultures; administer enteral feedings; provide wound care; remove IVs and Foley catheters; perform tracheostomy care and suctioning.

Skills

No prior experience required

Education

High school diploma / GED

CNA / CPTC certification

Enrollment in healthcare career program

Job description

Find your calling at Mercy!

Job Description Summary
Under the direction of the RN or LPN, assists in the individualized care of the patient to achieve the patient's highest level of wellness. Works cooperatively with others as part of a team; recognizes the importance of group goals. Performs designated clinical procedures and non-clinical support tasks essential to providing care to the patient.

Position Details:

Patient Care Associate (PCA) / Patient Care Technician (PCT)

⭐ About the Unit – Orthopedics ⭐

The Orthopedics unit specializes in the care of postoperative patients following elective knee and hip replacements, spine procedures (neck and back), and foot/ankle surgeries. Nurses and PCAs on this unit develop strong skills in mobility assistance, pain management, orthopedic monitoring, and rehabilitation-focused patient care. To learn more about Mercy South Orthopedics, click here: Careers

Location: Mercy Hospital South - 10010 Kennerly Rd, St. Louis, MO 63128

Schedule: PRN

Shift: Varies

Qualifications:

• Education: High school diploma, GED, CNA/CPTC certification, or enrollment in a healthcare career program through high school. Current Mercy co-workers are also eligible.

• Experience: No prior experience required

• Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to push, pull, and lift up to 50 lbs. regularly

  • Prolonged standing and walking during shifts

  • Ability to grip, reach, bend, kneel, twist, and squat to perform duties

Certifications:

• Basic Life Support (BLS) required within one month of hire

• Completion of PCA competencies within three months of hire

Key Responsibilities

As a Patient Care Associate (PCA):

• Record vital signs and enter data into the electronic medical record

• Assist patients with daily needs (meals, bathing, toileting, mobility, transportation)

• Provide clerical support as needed

As a Patient Care Technician (PCT): Includes all PCA responsibilities, plus:

• Perform phlebotomy and collect blood cultures

• Administer enteral feedings

• Provide wound care

• Remove IVs and Foley catheters

• Perform tracheostomy care and suctioning

Training & Development

• Mercy’s PCA training program is an accredited Department of Labor Apprenticeship, offering hands-on experience and valuable credentials in a supportive healthcare environment.

• If you have no prior experience, Mercy provides a 175-hour training program that meets Department of Health and Senior Services requirements. This must be completed within 90 days of hire.

Why Mercy?

From day one, Mercy offers outstanding benefits - including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, tuition support, and matched retirement plans for team members working 32+ hours per pay period.

Join a caring, collaborative team where your voice matters. At Mercy, you'll help shape the future of healthcare through innovation, technology, and compassion. As we grow, you'll grow with us.