Patient Care Associate- PCA - ICU - PRN - Shifts Vary

Mercy; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 25,000 - 30,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Paid time off

Tuition support

Matched retirement plans

Job summary

Mercy Hospital Washington in Washington, DC seeks a Patient Care Associate (PCA) to provide hands-on care under RN or LPN supervision in a fast-paced ICU. This PRN‑shift position offers hands-on patient support and clerical assistance to help the team deliver high-quality care.

The role emphasizes teamwork, compassion, and learning, with Mercy offering an accredited PCA Training Program and a 175‑hour training track upon hire.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• CNA/CPTC certification, enrollment in healthcare career program, or current Mercy co-worker preferred.
• No prior experience required – we will train you!
• BLS Certification required within 1 month of hire.
• Mercy offers a 175-hour training program to be completed within 90 days of hire.

Responsibilities

• Obtain and record vital signs in the electronic medical record.
• Assist patients with meals, hygiene, toileting, ambulation, and transport.
• Provide clerical support as needed.
• Phlebotomy and blood cultures (PCT duties).
• Enteral feedings, wound care, IV/Foley removal, and tracheostomy care as applicable.

Skills

Patient care

Teamwork

Communication

Mobility assistance

Education

High school diploma or GED

CNA/CPTC certification or enrollment in healthcare program

Tools

EMR system

Job description

Find your calling at Mercy!

Under the direction of the RN or LPN, assists in the individualized care of the patient to achieve the patients 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:

Join Our Team at Mercy Hospital Washington!

Position: Patient Care Associate (PCA)

Department: ICU

Shift: PRN-Shifts Vary

Department Overview

We are a fast-paced, high-energy 19 bed floor comprised of a 13 bed Intensive Care Unit and 6 bed Transitional Care Unit (step-down). We function as one team with amazing teamwork to provided top quality care to our patients. We are a team of dedicated co-workers that work together to ensure patients receive the lifesaving care they need.

We are a medical surgical ICU that sees a wide variety of patients and diagnosis. This diverse nature provides a lot of educational moments for coworkers. The TCU provides care to acutely ill patients that are not quite to the point of needing ICU or just removed from ICU status. The TCU is very fast paced and requires good critical thinking skills, which allows for a great learning environment for new nurses to our team. What ties us together so well is the great teamwork and multi-disciplinary collaboration.

Position Overview

Under the supervision of an RN or LPN, the Patient Care Associate provides hands‑on care and support to patients, helping them achieve their highest level of wellness and comfort.

Responsibilities

Patient Care Associate (PCA):

• Obtain and record vital signs in the electronic medical record
• Assist patients with meals, hygiene, toileting, ambulation, and transport
• Provide clerical support as needed

Patient Care Technician (PCT):

In addition to PCA duties, PCTs perform:

• Phlebotomy and blood cultures
• Enteral feedings
• Wound care
• IV/Foley removal
• Tracheostomy care and suctioning

Advancement opportunities available through our career ladder from PCA to PCT and beyond!

Training & Development

Our PCA Training Program is an accredited Department of Labor Apprenticeship, offering comprehensive, hands‑on experience in a supportive learning environment.

If you do not have prior experience, Mercy provides a 175‑hour training program (meeting Department of Health and Senior Services standards) to be completed within 90 days of hire.

• BLS Certification: Required within 1 month of hire
• Competencies: Completed within 3 months of hire

Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or GED required
• CNA/CPTC certification, enrollment in a healthcare career program, or current Mercy co‑worker preferred

Experience:

• No prior experience required – we will train you!

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift, push, or pull up to 50 lbs regularly
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and squatting

Preferred: Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

Join a team where compassion meets excellence — and every day brings an opportunity to make a difference

EEO/AA/Minorities/Females/Disabled/Veterans

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.