JGH Patient Care Tech - WVU Medicine

Role Overview

The Patient Care Tech (PCT) at Jackson General Hospital (JGH), part of the WVU Medicine network, plays a crucial role in providing direct and indirect patient care under the supervision of registered nurses. This position focuses on meeting the personal, physical, and comfort needs of patients, ensuring a high standard of care in coordination with the medical staff. The PCT-Certified will provide high-quality patient care in coordination with licensed medical staff.

A Day in the Life of a Patient Care Tech

A typical day for a PCT involves a variety of tasks aimed at supporting patient well-being and assisting the nursing staff. This includes: * **Direct Patient Care:** Assisting patients with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and feeding. * **Vital Signs Monitoring:** Regularly checking and recording vital signs, including temperature, blood pressure, and pulse rate. * **Specimen Collection:** Gathering samples for laboratory testing. * **Mobility Assistance:** Helping patients move around, whether it’s walking, transferring to a chair, or repositioning in bed. * **Environmental Maintenance:** Ensuring a clean and safe patient environment, including changing linens and sanitizing surfaces. * **Communication:** Communicating patient needs and observations to the nursing staff. * **Emotional Support:** Providing emotional support and companionship to patients.

Why Morgantown, West Virginia?

Morgantown, West Virginia, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. As the home of West Virginia University, Morgantown is a vibrant college town with a lively arts and culture scene. The city boasts a low cost of living, making it an affordable place to live and work. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the numerous recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, and water sports on the nearby Monongahela River. Morgantown is also within easy driving distance of major metropolitan areas like Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C.

Career Path for Patient Care Techs

The PCT role is an excellent entry point into the healthcare field. With experience and further education, PCTs can advance their careers in various directions. Some potential career paths include: * **Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA):** Completing a CNA program and becoming certified can lead to increased responsibilities and pay. * **Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN):** Pursuing an LPN degree can open doors to more advanced patient care roles. * **Registered Nurse (RN):** Earning an RN degree is a significant step forward, allowing for greater autonomy and specialization. * **Other Healthcare Roles:** PCT experience can also be a stepping stone to other healthcare careers, such as medical assistant, phlebotomist, or emergency medical technician (EMT). ## Competitive Salary & Benefits While the exact salary is not disclosed, Patient Care Techs in the Morgantown, West Virginia area can expect a competitive hourly wage, typically ranging between $27,000 to $40,000 annually. In addition to competitive pay, WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive benefits package, including: * **Health Insurance:** Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage. * **Paid Time Off:** Generous paid time off for vacation, sick leave, and holidays. * **Retirement Savings:** 401(k) plan with employer matching. * **Tuition Reimbursement:** Opportunities for continuing education and professional development. * **Employee Assistance Program:** Confidential counseling and support services. ## WVU Medicine Culture WVU Medicine is committed to providing exceptional patient care in a supportive and collaborative environment. As an employee, you’ll be part of a team of dedicated healthcare professionals who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of others. WVU Medicine values diversity, inclusion, and respect for all employees and patients. ## How to Apply To apply for the Patient Care Tech position at Jackson General Hospital, please click the “Apply” button at the top of this page and complete the online application. Be sure to highlight your relevant experience and qualifications in your resume and cover letter. ## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) **1. What are the minimum education requirements for this position?** A high school diploma or equivalent is required. **2. Is certification required?** Yes, a current WV Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification or completion of a hospital-based certification program is required. **3. How soon do I need to obtain Basic Life Support (BLS) certification?** You must obtain BLS certification within 30 days of your hire date. **4. Is prior patient care experience required?** Prior patient care experience is preferred but not always required. **5. What are the physical requirements of the job?** The job requires strength and stamina, including lifting, moving, stooping, reaching, standing, and walking. **6. What are the working environment conditions?** You will be working closely with others, potentially during protracted or irregular hours, and may be exposed to biohazards and infectious diseases. **7. What opportunities for advancement are available?** With experience and further education, you can advance to positions such as CNA, LPN, or RN. **8. Does WVU Medicine offer tuition reimbursement?** Yes, WVU Medicine offers a tuition reimbursement program for continuing education. **9. What benefits are included in the compensation package?** The benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, a 401(k) plan, and more. **10. Is there on-site childcare available?** On-site childcare facilities may be available depending on the location.