## Patient Care Technician (PCT) - Inpatient Rehab - Sanford Health, Sioux Falls, SD ### Role Overview Sanford Health is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Patient Care Technician (PCT) to join our Inpatient Rehabilitation team in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. As a PCT, you will play a vital role in providing patient-centered nursing care and daily living assistance to patients under the supervision of Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). This position is a full-time, night shift role, offering a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of patients recovering from various medical conditions and surgeries. This role requires a blend of clinical skills, empathy, and strong communication abilities. You will be responsible for monitoring vital signs, assisting with personal hygiene, and ensuring a comfortable and safe environment for patients. Your contributions will directly impact the patients' recovery journey, making this a rewarding and fulfilling career choice. ### A Day in the Life of a PCT As a Patient Care Technician in Inpatient Rehab, your day will be dynamic and patient-focused. Here's a glimpse into what you can expect: * **Patient Interaction:** Assist patients with daily living activities, including dressing, bathing, grooming, and toileting. Provide emotional support and companionship to patients, ensuring they feel comfortable and cared for. * **Vital Signs Monitoring:** Regularly monitor and record vital signs such as temperature, blood pressure, pulse, and respiration rate. Report any abnormalities or changes in patient condition to the supervising nurse. * **Specimen Collection:** Collect non-invasive biological specimens from patients as directed by the healthcare team, following proper protocols for handling and labeling. * **Meal Assistance:** Assist patients with meal preparation and feeding, ensuring they receive proper nutrition. Monitor dietary intake and report any issues to the nursing staff. * **Mobility Support:** Assist patients with mobility and ambulation, using assistive devices such as walkers or wheelchairs as needed. Help patients perform range-of-motion exercises as prescribed by physical therapists. * **Room Maintenance:** Maintain the cleanliness and organization of patient rooms, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment. Change bed linens, empty trash, and disinfect surfaces as needed. * **Equipment Handling:** Prepare and clean medical equipment, such as wheelchairs, walkers, and bedside commodes. Ensure equipment is in good working order and report any malfunctions to the appropriate personnel. * **Documentation:** Accurately document patient care activities, vital signs, and any changes in patient condition in the electronic health record (EHR). * **Team Collaboration:** Work closely with RNs, LPNs, therapists, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive patient care. Communicate effectively and participate in team meetings and discussions. * **Emergency Response:** Respond to patient calls and emergencies, providing immediate assistance and notifying the appropriate healthcare personnel. ### Why Sioux Falls, South Dakota? Sioux Falls is a vibrant and growing city that offers a high quality of life with a low cost of living. Located in southeastern South Dakota, Sioux Falls boasts a strong economy, excellent schools, and a thriving arts and culture scene. The city is known for its friendly atmosphere, clean environment, and abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities. * **Quality of Life:** Sioux Falls offers a family-friendly environment with safe neighborhoods, excellent schools, and numerous parks and recreational facilities. * **Affordable Living:** The cost of living in Sioux Falls is lower than the national average, making it an attractive place to live and work. * **Career Opportunities:** Sioux Falls has a diverse economy with opportunities in healthcare, finance, technology, and manufacturing. * **Outdoor Recreation:** Enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, and other outdoor activities at Falls Park, Good Earth State Park, and the Big Sioux River. * **Arts and Culture:** Explore the city's vibrant arts and culture scene, with museums, theaters, and live music venues. ### Career Path for a Patient Care Technician The Patient Care Technician role at Sanford Health offers a clear and promising career path, allowing you to grow professionally and expand your skillset. Here are some potential career advancement opportunities: * **Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA):** Obtaining your CNA certification is a natural progression for PCTs, enhancing your skills and opening up new career opportunities. * **Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN):** With further education and training, you can become an LPN, taking on more responsibilities in patient care. * **Registered Nurse (RN):** Many PCTs pursue a nursing degree to become RNs, advancing their careers and increasing their earning potential. * **Specialized Roles:** With experience and additional training, you can specialize in areas such as cardiac care, oncology, or pediatrics. * **Leadership Positions:** With proven performance and leadership skills, you can advance to supervisory or management roles within the healthcare system. Sanford Health is committed to supporting your career growth and provides ample opportunities for professional development through training programs, tuition reimbursement, and mentorship opportunities. ### Salary and Benefits The salary range for this Patient Care Technician position is estimated to be between $32,000 and $46,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. Sanford Health offers a comprehensive benefits package, including: * **Health Insurance:** Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage. * **Paid Time Off (PTO):** Generous PTO accrual for vacation, sick leave, and holidays. * **Retirement Plan:** 401(k) plan with employer matching or contribution. * **Life Insurance:** Company-paid life insurance and supplemental life insurance options. * **Disability Coverage:** Short-term and long-term disability coverage. * **Employee Assistance Program (EAP):** Confidential counseling and support services for employees and their families. * **Tuition Reimbursement:** Financial assistance for continuing education and professional development. * **Employee Discounts:** Discounts on Sanford Health services, products, and other local businesses. * **Wellness Programs:** Resources and programs to support employee health and well-being. ### Sanford Health Culture Sanford Health is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive workplace for all employees. We value teamwork, innovation, and a patient-centered approach to care. Our mission is to improve the human condition through health, science, and research. * **Teamwork:** We foster a collaborative environment where team members work together to achieve common goals. * **Innovation:** We encourage creativity and innovation to improve patient care and healthcare delivery. * **Patient-Centered Care:** We prioritize the needs and well-being of our patients, providing compassionate and personalized care. * **Diversity and Inclusion:** We value diversity and strive to create an inclusive workplace where everyone feels respected and valued. * **Community Involvement:** We are committed to giving back to the community through volunteerism and charitable giving. ### How to Apply If you are a compassionate and dedicated individual looking for a rewarding career as a Patient Care Technician, we encourage you to apply online through the Sanford Health careers website. Please submit your resume and cover letter, highlighting your qualifications and experience. ### Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) **Q1: What are the required qualifications for this position?** A1: A high school diploma or GED is preferred, but not required. Knowledge of healthcare, anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, and medical equipment/supplies is also preferred. CNA certification is preferred, but not required. **Q2: What are the typical working hours for this position?** A2: This is a full-time, night shift position, with three 12-hour shifts per week. The shifts are either 6:00 PM to 6:30 AM, 7:00 PM to 7:30 AM, or 12:00 AM to 12:30 PM. **Q3: Is there a weekend and holiday commitment?** A3: Yes, there is a commitment to work every third weekend and holiday. **Q4: Is this a union position?** A4: No, this is not a union position. **Q5: What are the main responsibilities of a Patient Care Technician?** A5: The main responsibilities include assisting patients with daily living activities, monitoring vital signs, collecting specimens, maintaining cleanliness of patient areas, and documenting patient care activities. **Q6: What opportunities are there for career advancement?** A6: Opportunities for career advancement include becoming a CNA, LPN, or RN, specializing in a specific area of healthcare, or advancing to supervisory or management roles. **Q7: Does Sanford Health offer tuition reimbursement?** A7: Yes, Sanford Health offers tuition reimbursement for continuing education and professional development. **Q8: What benefits are included in the compensation package?** A8: The benefits package includes health insurance, paid time off, a retirement plan, life insurance, disability coverage, and an employee assistance program. **Q9: What is the work environment like at Sanford Health?** A9: Sanford Health fosters a collaborative and supportive work environment where teamwork, innovation, and patient-centered care are valued. **Q10: How can I request an accommodation for the online application process?** A10: If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request an accommodation, please call 1-877-673-0854 or send an email to talent@sanfordhealth.org.