Patient Care Technician - Medical Oncology - Sanford Health, Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Are you a compassionate and dedicated individual looking to make a difference in the lives of patients undergoing medical oncology treatment? Sanford Health in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, is seeking a full-time Patient Care Technician (PCT) to join our Medical Oncology team. This rotating shift position offers an exciting opportunity to provide patient-centered care in a supportive and dynamic environment.

Role Overview

As a Patient Care Technician in Medical Oncology, you will play a vital role in supporting patients throughout their cancer treatment journey. You will work under the supervision of Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) to provide direct patient care, assist with daily living activities, and ensure a comfortable and safe environment. Your responsibilities will encompass a wide range of tasks, from monitoring vital signs to providing emotional support, all while adhering to Sanford Health's high standards of care.

A Day in the Life of a PCT in Medical Oncology

Each day as a PCT in Medical Oncology will bring new challenges and rewards. Your day may include:

• Monitoring Vital Signs: Regularly check and record patients' vital signs, such as temperature, blood pressure, and pulse, to detect any changes and report them to the nursing staff.
• Assisting with Personal Care: Help patients with bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting, ensuring their comfort and dignity.
• Providing Nutritional Support: Assist patients with meal preparation and feeding, ensuring they receive the nutrition they need during treatment.
• Administering Basic Treatments: Under the direction of nurses, administer basic treatments such as applying bandages, giving enemas, and providing skin care.
• Emotional Support: Provide emotional support and companionship to patients and their families, offering a listening ear and a comforting presence.
• Maintaining a Clean Environment: Ensure patient rooms and treatment areas are clean and organized to prevent infection and promote healing.
• Collecting Specimens: Collect non-invasive biological specimens, such as urine or stool samples, for laboratory testing.
• Documenting Care: Accurately document patient care activities, observations, and any changes in condition in the electronic health record.
• Transporting Patients: Assist with transporting patients to and from treatment areas, ensuring their safety and comfort.
• Responding to Call Lights: Answer patient call lights promptly and address their needs and concerns.

Why Sioux Falls, South Dakota?

Sioux Falls, South Dakota, offers a high quality of life with a low cost of living. This vibrant city boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, excellent schools, and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities. Enjoy exploring Falls Park, catching a show at the Washington Pavilion, or cheering on the Sioux Falls Skyforce basketball team. With its friendly atmosphere and strong sense of community, Sioux Falls is a great place to live and work.

Career Path for Patient Care Technicians

Sanford Health is committed to the professional development of its employees. As a PCT, you can advance your career through:

• Certification: Obtaining certifications such as Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) can enhance your skills and career prospects.
• Education: Pursuing further education in nursing or other healthcare fields can open doors to advanced roles.
• Specialization: Specializing in a particular area of patient care, such as oncology or cardiology, can provide opportunities for career growth.
• Leadership: Taking on leadership roles, such as charge PCT or team lead, can allow you to mentor and guide other team members.

Salary and Benefits

The salary range for this Patient Care Technician position is $16.00 - $23.00 per hour. Sanford Health also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Paid Time Off: Vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Retirement Plan: 401(k) with employer match
• Life Insurance: Basic and supplemental life insurance
• Disability Insurance: Short-term and long-term disability coverage
• Flexible Spending Accounts: Healthcare and dependent care FSAs
• Employee Assistance Program: Confidential counseling and support services
• Tuition Reimbursement: Assistance with educational expenses

Sanford Health Culture

Sanford Health is known for its commitment to:

• Patient-Centered Care: Putting patients' needs first in all aspects of care.
• Innovation: Embracing new technologies and approaches to improve patient outcomes.
• Teamwork: Working collaboratively to provide the best possible care.
• Respect: Treating all individuals with dignity and respect.
• Integrity: Maintaining the highest ethical standards.

We are proud to offer many development and advancement opportunities to our nearly 50,000 members of the Sanford Family who are dedicated to the work of health and healing across our broad footprint.

How to Apply

If you are passionate about patient care and want to join a team of dedicated professionals, we encourage you to apply for the Patient Care Technician position at Sanford Health in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. To apply, please visit our careers website and submit your application online.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the essential functions of a Patient Care Technician?

The essential functions include monitoring vital signs, assisting with personal care, providing nutritional support, administering basic treatments, offering emotional support, maintaining a clean environment, collecting specimens, documenting care, transporting patients, and responding to call lights.

2. What qualifications are required for this position?

A high school diploma or GED is preferred, and knowledge of healthcare, anatomy, and physiology is beneficial. Certification as a Nursing Assistant (CNA) is also preferred. If working in North Dakota and not a CNA, you must be on the North Dakota Department of Health Nurse Aide Registry.

3. What is the typical work schedule for this position?

This is a full-time position with rotating shifts, including three 12-hour shifts per week. You will also be required to work every other weekend and holiday.

4. What opportunities are available for professional development?

Sanford Health offers various opportunities for professional development, including certification programs, tuition reimbursement, and leadership training.

5. What benefits does Sanford Health offer to its employees?

Sanford Health offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off, retirement plan, life insurance, disability insurance, flexible spending accounts, and an employee assistance program.

6. What is the work environment like in the Medical Oncology department?

The Medical Oncology department is a fast-paced and challenging environment, but it is also incredibly rewarding. You will work alongside a team of dedicated professionals who are committed to providing the best possible care to patients.

7. How does Sanford Health support its employees?

Sanford Health provides a supportive work environment, offering resources such as employee assistance programs, wellness programs, and employee recognition programs.

8. What is the dress code for Patient Care Technicians?

Patient Care Technicians are typically required to wear scrubs. Specific guidelines will be provided during the onboarding process.

9. Are there opportunities for advancement within Sanford Health?

Yes, Sanford Health offers numerous opportunities for career advancement. You can advance by pursuing further education, specializing in a particular area of patient care, or taking on leadership roles.

10. What is Sanford Health's commitment to diversity and inclusion?

Sanford Health is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment. We value the unique perspectives and experiences of all our employees.