Clinical Associate - 10 East Medicine Stepdown/Floor – Dayshift – Full-time at WVU Medicine

Role Overview

Are you a compassionate and dedicated individual looking for a rewarding career in healthcare? WVU Medicine is seeking a Clinical Associate to join our team on the 10 East Medicine Stepdown/Floor unit. As a Clinical Associate, you will play a vital role in providing direct and indirect patient care under the supervision of a registered professional nurse. This full-time, dayshift position offers an excellent opportunity to contribute to a high-quality, patient-centered environment at Ruby Memorial Hospital.

In this role, you will assist in providing basic physical care, assist patients with activities of daily living, safely transport patients, perform assigned tests, and meticulously record vital signs. Your proactive interaction with patients and their families will ensure a positive and family-centered experience. Your ability to observe and report changes in patient condition to the registered nurse is crucial for patient safety and well-being. Maintaining a clean and safe environment to prevent infections and ensure the safety of patients, visitors, and employees is a core responsibility.

A Day in the Life of a Clinical Associate

Your day as a Clinical Associate at WVU Medicine will be dynamic and patient-focused. Here’s what a typical day might look like:

• Morning Shift (7:00 AM - 8:00 AM): Begin by receiving a patient report from the outgoing Clinical Associate and RN, understanding the needs and conditions of assigned patients.
• Patient Care (8:00 AM - 10:00 AM): Assist patients with their morning routines, including bathing, dressing, and oral hygiene. Measure and record vital signs such as temperature, pulse, respiration, and blood pressure. Assist patients with ambulation and range of motion exercises as prescribed.
• Testing and Monitoring (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Perform assigned tests like glucose monitoring, urine, and stool testing, ensuring quality control measures are followed. Collect and transport specimens to the lab.
• Lunch Break (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Take a well-deserved break to recharge and connect with colleagues.
• Afternoon Care (1:00 PM - 3:00 PM): Assist patients with feeding and ensure they receive their prescribed diets. Document intake and output. Provide respiratory support by setting up oxygen administration equipment as needed. Encourage the use of Incentive Spirometers.
• Transport and Support (3:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Safely transport patients to various tests and procedures, adhering to safe patient handling policies. Assist physicians and nurses with examinations and procedures.
• Reporting and Communication (5:00 PM - 6:00 PM): Observe and report any changes in patient condition to the registered nurse immediately. Communicate any nutrition issues or patient concerns. Prepare the patient rooms for the next shift.
• End of Shift (6:00 PM - 7:00 PM): Document all care provided and report any unresolved issues to the oncoming Clinical Associate and RN.

Throughout the day, you will be collaborating with a multidisciplinary team, ensuring that patients receive the highest quality of care and attention. Your ability to adapt to changing patient needs and prioritize tasks will be essential for success in this role.

Why Morgantown, West Virginia?

Morgantown, West Virginia, is a vibrant and welcoming city that offers a high quality of life. Home to West Virginia University, Morgantown has a youthful energy with a thriving arts and culture scene. The city boasts beautiful parks, outdoor recreational opportunities, and a diverse culinary landscape.

• Affordable Living: Morgantown offers a lower cost of living compared to many other cities in the United States, making it an attractive place to live and work.
• Education and Culture: WVU provides numerous educational and cultural opportunities, including sporting events, concerts, and theatrical performances.
• Outdoor Recreation: Surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains, Morgantown offers easy access to hiking, biking, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
• Community: Morgantown is known for its friendly and close-knit community, making it easy to feel at home.
• Accessibility: Located within driving distance of major cities like Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C., Morgantown offers convenient access to urban amenities.

Working at WVU Medicine in Morgantown allows you to enjoy a fulfilling career while living in a city that offers a balanced and enriching lifestyle.

Career Path for a Clinical Associate at WVU Medicine

WVU Medicine is committed to the professional growth and development of its employees. Starting as a Clinical Associate provides a solid foundation for career advancement within the organization. Here are some potential career paths you can pursue:

• Registered Nurse (RN): Many Clinical Associates pursue further education to become Registered Nurses. WVU Medicine offers tuition assistance and support for employees seeking to advance their education.
• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): Another option is to become a Licensed Practical Nurse, which involves completing a practical nursing program and passing the licensing exam.
• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Instructor: With experience and additional training, you can become a CNA instructor, sharing your knowledge and skills with aspiring healthcare professionals.
• Unit Secretary: Clinical Associates can transition to a Unit Secretary role, which involves managing administrative tasks and supporting the nursing staff on the unit.
• Leadership Roles: With experience and demonstrated leadership skills, you can advance to supervisory or management positions within the nursing department.

WVU Medicine provides ongoing training and development opportunities to help you achieve your career goals. Your dedication and hard work will be recognized and rewarded as you progress in your career.

Salary and Benefits

WVU Medicine offers a competitive salary and benefits package to attract and retain top talent. The estimated annual salary range for a Clinical Associate in Morgantown, West Virginia, is between $27,000 and $40,000, depending on experience and qualifications.

In addition to a competitive salary, WVU Medicine provides 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 Savings Plan: 401(k) or 403(b) plan with employer matching.
• Life Insurance: Basic and supplemental life insurance options.
• Disability Insurance: Short-term and long-term disability coverage.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): Options for healthcare and dependent care expenses.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Financial assistance for continuing education and professional development.
• Employee Discounts: Discounts on various products and services.
• Wellness Programs: Resources and programs to support your physical and mental well-being.

WVU Medicine is committed to providing a supportive and rewarding work environment for its employees. Your contributions will be valued and recognized.

WVU Medicine Culture

WVU Medicine is known for its strong commitment to patient care, teamwork, and innovation. The organization fosters a culture of respect, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

• Patient-Centered Care: WVU Medicine places the patient at the center of everything it does, striving to provide the highest quality of care and a positive patient experience.
• Teamwork: Collaboration and communication are essential values at WVU Medicine. Employees work together to achieve common goals and support one another.
• Innovation: WVU Medicine is committed to innovation and continuous improvement, embracing new technologies and approaches to enhance patient care.
• Respect: WVU Medicine values diversity and inclusion, creating a welcoming and respectful environment for all employees.
• Professional Development: WVU Medicine invests in the professional development of its employees, providing opportunities for growth and advancement.

Joining WVU Medicine means becoming part of a team that is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of patients and the community.

How to Apply

If you are interested in joining the WVU Medicine team as a Clinical Associate, we encourage you to apply online. To apply to this position and be considered, click the Apply button located above and complete the application in full.

The application process typically involves the following steps:

• Online Application: Complete the online application form, providing your personal information, education history, and work experience.
• Resume Submission: Upload your resume, highlighting your relevant skills and qualifications.
• Cover Letter (Optional): Submit a cover letter, expressing your interest in the position and explaining why you are a good fit for WVU Medicine.
• Assessment (If Required): Some positions may require you to complete an online assessment to evaluate your skills and abilities.
• Interview: If your application is selected, you will be invited to participate in an interview with the hiring manager and other members of the team.
• Background Check: A background check will be conducted as part of the hiring process.

We appreciate your interest in WVU Medicine and look forward to reviewing your application.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the minimum qualifications for this position?

   The minimum qualifications include a high school diploma or equivalent and certification in Basic Life Support or HeartSaver First Aid within 30 days of hire.

2. Is prior patient care experience required?

   Prior patient care experience is preferred but not required.

3. What are the core duties and responsibilities of a Clinical Associate?

   The core duties include assisting in direct patient care, assisting with activities of daily living, safely transporting patients, performing assigned tests, and reporting patient concerns to the registered nurse.

4. What is the work schedule for this position?

   This is a full-time, dayshift position.

5. What is the salary range for this position?

   The estimated annual salary range for a Clinical Associate in Morgantown, West Virginia, is between $27,000 and $40,000, depending on experience and qualifications.

6. What benefits does WVU Medicine offer?

   WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off, retirement savings plan, life insurance, and disability insurance.

7. What opportunities are there for career advancement at WVU Medicine?

   WVU Medicine provides opportunities for career advancement through continuing education, training programs, and internal promotions.

8. What is the culture like at WVU Medicine?

   WVU Medicine fosters a culture of patient-centered care, teamwork, innovation, and respect.

9. How do I apply for this position?

   To apply to this position and be considered, click the Apply button located above and complete the application in full.

10. What should I include in my resume and cover letter?

    In your resume, highlight your relevant skills and experience, including any patient care experience, certifications, and education. In your cover letter, express your interest in the position and explain why you are a good fit for WVU Medicine.