Patient Care Technician - Admissions Unit - Sanford Health, Fargo, ND

Role Overview

As a Patient Care Technician (PCT) in the Admissions Unit at Sanford Health in Fargo, North Dakota, you will play a critical role in providing patient-centered care during the initial and often most vulnerable hours of their inpatient stay. Your primary responsibility is to assist patients with daily living activities, monitor vital signs, and provide emotional support, all under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). This position requires strong communication, customer service, and organizational skills to ensure a positive patient experience and facilitate seamless transitions into inpatient care.

A Day in the Life

Each day as a PCT in the Admissions Unit is dynamic and patient-focused. Your shift typically involves:

• Patient Interaction: Greeting newly admitted patients, assisting with their personal belongings, and orienting them to their room and hospital policies.
• Vital Signs Monitoring: Regularly checking and recording patients' vital signs, including temperature, blood pressure, pulse, and respiration rate, and promptly reporting any abnormalities to the nursing staff.
• Assistance with ADLs: Helping patients with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting, while ensuring their comfort and dignity.
• Meal Assistance: Assisting patients with meal preparation and feeding, ensuring they receive proper nutrition and hydration.
• Specimen Collection: Collecting non-invasive biological specimens, such as urine or stool samples, following proper protocols and ensuring accurate labeling and delivery to the laboratory.
• Room Preparation and Cleaning: Preparing patient rooms for new admissions, cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, and ensuring a safe and sanitary environment.
• Equipment Handling: Preparing, cleaning, and sterilizing medical equipment, adhering to infection control guidelines.
• Clerical Tasks: Documenting patient care activities, updating patient records in the electronic health record (EHR) system, and assisting with scheduling appointments.
• Emotional Support: Providing emotional support and companionship to patients, actively listening to their concerns, and offering reassurance and encouragement.
• Communication: Communicating effectively with patients, families, and healthcare team members, providing updates on patient status and addressing any questions or concerns.

Why Fargo, North Dakota?

Fargo offers a high quality of life with a thriving economy, affordable housing, and a welcoming community. The city boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, excellent schools, and numerous outdoor recreational opportunities. Fargo is also home to several major healthcare providers, making it an ideal location for healthcare professionals seeking career growth and stability. Sanford Health's presence in Fargo provides ample opportunities for advancement and professional development within a supportive and innovative environment.

Career Path

The Patient Care Technician role can serve as a valuable stepping stone for career advancement within Sanford Health. Potential career paths include:

• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA): Obtaining CNA certification to expand your skillset and responsibilities.
• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): Pursuing LPN licensure through an accredited nursing program.
• Registered Nurse (RN): Advancing your education to become a Registered Nurse, providing comprehensive patient care and assuming leadership roles.
• Specialized PCT Roles: Specializing in specific areas of patient care, such as cardiac care, oncology, or emergency medicine, through additional training and certification.
• Leadership Roles: Progressing into supervisory or management positions, overseeing PCT teams and ensuring quality patient care.

Salary & Benefits

The salary range for a Patient Care Technician at Sanford Health in Fargo, ND typically falls between $33,000 and $46,000 annually, depending on experience, certification, and shift differentials. In addition to competitive pay, Sanford Health offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off (PTO) and holidays
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer match
• Life and disability insurance
• Employee assistance program (EAP)
• Tuition reimbursement
• Employee discounts

Sanford Culture

Sanford Health is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to excel. The organization fosters a culture of teamwork, collaboration, and continuous learning, encouraging employees to grow both personally and professionally. Sanford Health also prioritizes patient-centered care, emphasizing compassion, empathy, and a commitment to providing the best possible healthcare experience.

How to Apply

To apply for the Patient Care Technician position at Sanford Health in Fargo, ND, please visit the Sanford Health Careers website and search for job openings in Fargo. Follow the online application instructions and submit your resume and cover letter. Be sure to highlight your relevant skills, experience, and qualifications, and emphasize your commitment to patient care.

FAQ

1. What are the shift hours for this position?
   The position involves 12-hour rotating shifts, including days, evenings, and nights, with every third weekend and every other holiday.
2. Is CNA certification required?
   CNA certification is preferred but not required. However, if you are not a CNA and working in North Dakota, you must be on the North Dakota Department of Health Nurse Aide Registry upon completion of training/competency validation or within four months of initial employment.
3. What are the key responsibilities of a PCT in the Admissions Unit?
   Key responsibilities include monitoring vital signs, assisting with activities of daily living, collecting specimens, preparing patient rooms, providing emotional support, and communicating with patients and families.
4. What skills are important for success in this role?
   Important skills include strong communication, customer service, multitasking, organizational skills, and the ability to provide compassionate care.
5. What opportunities for career advancement are available at Sanford Health?
   Sanford Health offers numerous opportunities for career advancement, including CNA certification, LPN licensure, RN licensure, specialized PCT roles, and leadership positions.
6. What benefits does Sanford Health offer?
   Sanford Health offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, a 401(k) retirement plan, life and disability insurance, tuition reimbursement, and employee discounts.
7. What is the work environment like at Sanford Health?
   Sanford Health fosters a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to excel. The organization emphasizes teamwork, collaboration, and continuous learning.
8. How can I learn more about Sanford Health's mission and values?
   You can learn more about Sanford Health's mission and values by visiting the Sanford Health website and exploring the "About Us" section.
9. Is there room for growth in this position?
   Yes, there are opportunities for advancement at Sanford. They encourage continuous learning.
10. Is there on-the-job training?
    Yes, on the job training will be provided.