Join to apply for the Patient Care Technician - PCT CCHT - Dialysis role at Fresenius Medical Care
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Join to apply for the Patient Care Technician - PCT CCHT - Dialysis role at Fresenius Medical Care
PURPOSE AND SCOPE:
Functions as part of the dialysis health care team in providing safe and effective dialysis therapy for patients under the direct supervision of a licensed nurse in accordance with organization policies, procedures, and training and in compliance with regulations set forth by the corporation, state, and federal agencies. Responsible for the setup and operation of hemodialysis machines. Assist in the maintenance of a safe and clean working environment. Supports the organization commitment to the Quality Enhancement Program (QEP) and CQI Activities, including those related to patient satisfaction and actively participates in process improvement activities that enhance the likelihood that patients will achieve the organization Quality Enhancement Goals (QEP).
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Patient Related Education:
- Assist other health care members in providing patient-specific detailed education regarding adequacy measures where appropriate - Online Clearance Monitoring (OLC), Adequacy Monitoring Program (AMP), Urea Kinetic Modeling (UKM), and regarding disease process/access.
Treatment:
- Welcome assigned patients and inquire about their wellbeing since their last treatment.
- Evaluate vascular access for patency, perform vascular access cannulation, and administer heparin as delegated or as allowed by law.
- Obtain pre and post treatment vital signs and weight; perform vascular access evaluation pre-treatment.
- Initiate dialysis treatment according to prescribed orders, including blood flow (QB) and dialysate flow (QD).
- Evaluate intradialytic problems and provide intervention as prescribed by the physician or as directed.
- Monitor patients’ response to dialysis therapy.
- Obtain vital signs prior to reinfusion; perform all functions necessary for treatment discontinuation and document.
- Discontinue dialysis treatment following procedures; evaluate patient prior to venous access removal.
- Obtain hemostasis and apply dressings.
- Evaluate the patient before discharge.
- Perform and record pre and post dialysis evaluations, weight, and vital signs with initial identification.
- Calculate and program individual dialysis machine parameters such as Ultrafiltration (UF) goal, treatment time, and UF modeling as prescribed.
- Ensure safety alarms are enabled, including Narrow Venous Limits (NVL) 160.
- Accurately document treatment data, including treatment sheets and progress notes.
- Report significant patient condition changes to the registered nurse or supervisor.
- Conduct safety checks on machines; report any issues.
- Intervene and document responses to unusual patient statuses.
- Monitor vascular access during treatment, document pressures, and report abnormalities.
- Collect and prepare laboratory specimens as prescribed.
- Immediately clean blood spills with disinfectant.
- Organize supplies to prevent wastage.
- Supervise patients performing self-care under RN supervision.
Staff Related:
- Assist in training direct care staff under supervision of a nurse.
Education/Communication:
- Follow all policies, procedures, and training systems, including ethical practices.
- Maintain a safe, clean environment.
- Disinfect equipment and surroundings between treatments.
- Prepare for dialysis treatments and perform necessary alarm tests.
- Initiate Solution Delivery System (SDS).
Record Keeping:
- Participate in CQI activities.
- Enter treatment data accurately and timely.
- Review treatment sheets for completeness and signatures; correct entries as needed.
- Prepare patient charts and lab requisitions; handle lab specimens properly.
Infection Control:
- Assist with infection control audits.
- Support adherence to infection control practices.
- Participate in infection control education for patients and families as permitted by law.
Transitional Care Unit:
- Follow new patients through their first 4 weeks of dialysis and coordinate care.
- Reinforce education and care related to new patients.
- Coordinate with staff to ensure comprehensive patient care.
- Assist in educating patients about home dialysis options and setup.
- Manage transition to patient’s chosen modality and supply inventory for TCU.
Physical Demands and Working Conditions:
Includes standing, bending, lifting up to 40 lbs., exposure to infectious materials, and travel between facilities. Accommodations may be provided.
Education and Licenses:
- High School diploma or G.E.D. required.
- CMS-approved certification and state licensure as applicable.
- Demonstrated commitment to organizational values and customer service.
Experience and Skills:
- Preferred: previous patient care experience in a hospital or similar setting.
- Successful completion of dialysis training and CPR certification required.
- Minimum 1 year dialysis experience and CCHT certification required.
Note: The description now emphasizes clarity, removes irrelevant content, and maintains all essential responsibilities and qualifications.