Inpatient Surgical Oncology Clinical Associate at WVU Medicine - Morgantown, WV

Role Overview

The Inpatient Surgical Oncology Clinical Associate plays a vital role in providing direct and indirect patient care under the supervision of registered nurses within the surgical oncology unit at Ruby Memorial Hospital, a part of WVU Medicine. This position focuses on assisting the nursing staff in delivering high-quality, cost-effective care while ensuring a family-centered experience for patients and their families. The Clinical Associate performs a variety of tasks, including basic patient care, vital signs monitoring, patient transport, and maintaining a safe and clean environment. This role requires a compassionate and detail-oriented individual with strong communication skills and a commitment to teamwork.

A Day in the Life

A typical day for an Inpatient Surgical Oncology Clinical Associate might include: * **Morning:** * Arriving at the unit and receiving shift report from the outgoing Clinical Associate. * Assisting patients with their morning hygiene routines, such as bathing, dressing, and oral care. * Taking and recording patients' vital signs, including temperature, pulse, respiration, and blood pressure. * Preparing patients for breakfast and assisting those who need help with feeding. * Making beds and ensuring the patient rooms are clean and organized. * **Mid-Day:** * Transporting patients to various tests and procedures within the hospital. * Assisting nurses with wound care and dressing changes. * Performing assigned tests, such as glucose monitoring, and documenting results accurately. * Collecting and transporting specimens to the laboratory. * Assisting patients with ambulation and range-of-motion exercises. * **Afternoon:** * Assisting patients with toileting and other personal needs. * Providing emotional support and companionship to patients and their families. * Monitoring patients for any changes in condition and reporting them to the registered nurse. * Ensuring patients have access to water and other refreshments. * Assisting with the preparation of patients for discharge. * **Evening:** * Assisting patients with their evening hygiene routines and preparing them for bed. * Taking and recording patients' vital signs. * Assisting with the distribution of evening meals. * Maintaining a clean and safe environment on the unit. * Providing a detailed shift report to the oncoming Clinical Associate. Throughout the day, the Clinical Associate will interact with patients, families, nurses, physicians, and other healthcare professionals, requiring excellent communication and teamwork skills.

Why Morgantown, West Virginia?

Morgantown is a vibrant city located in the heart of West Virginia, offering a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. As the home of West Virginia University, Morgantown has a youthful energy and a thriving cultural scene. The city offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, and water sports, as well as a diverse range of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Morgantown is also known for its affordable cost of living and its friendly, welcoming community. WVU Medicine provides countless opportunities for professional growth and development in this bustling, beautiful city.

Career Path

The Inpatient Surgical Oncology Clinical Associate position can serve as a stepping stone to a variety of career paths within WVU Medicine. With experience and further education, Clinical Associates may advance to roles such as: * **Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA):** By obtaining certification, Clinical Associates can expand their scope of practice and take on more responsibilities in patient care. * **Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN):** LPNs provide more advanced nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses and physicians. * **Registered Nurse (RN):** RNs provide comprehensive nursing care, including assessing patients, developing care plans, administering medications, and educating patients and families. * **Other Healthcare Roles:** Clinical Associates may also pursue careers in other healthcare fields, such as medical assisting, phlebotomy, or respiratory therapy. WVU Medicine offers a variety of training and development programs to help employees advance their careers.

Salary and Benefits

The estimated annual salary range for an Inpatient Surgical Oncology Clinical Associate at WVU Medicine in Morgantown, WV is $30,000 to $45,000. Actual salary may vary depending on experience, education, and other factors. WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive benefits package to its employees, including: * Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision) * Prescription drug coverage * Paid time off (PTO) for vacation, sick leave, and holidays * Retirement savings plan with employer matching contributions * Life insurance * Disability insurance (short-term and long-term) * Flexible spending accounts (FSA) for healthcare and dependent care expenses * Employee assistance program (EAP) for confidential counseling and support * Wellness programs and resources * Tuition reimbursement or assistance for continuing education * Professional development opportunities * Employee discounts on various products and services

WVU Medicine Culture

WVU Medicine is committed to creating a positive and supportive work environment for its employees. The organization values teamwork, respect, and compassion, and strives to provide employees with the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. WVU Medicine is also committed to diversity and inclusion, and welcomes individuals from all backgrounds to join its team. Working with WVU Medicine offers the chance to make a real difference in the lives of the patients and families in the community. There's an immense sense of pride in contributing to a system renowned for cutting-edge treatments and compassionate care.

How to Apply

To apply for the Inpatient Surgical Oncology Clinical Associate position at WVU Medicine, please visit the WVU Medicine Careers website and search for the job title. Follow the instructions to submit your application online. Be sure to include a resume and cover letter that highlight your qualifications and experience.

FAQ

1. **What are the minimum qualifications for this position?** * The minimum qualifications are a high school diploma or equivalent and certification in Basic Life Support (BLS) or HeartSaver First Aid within 30 days of hire date. 2. **Is prior patient care experience required?** * Prior patient care experience is preferred, but not required. 3. **What are the key responsibilities of a Clinical Associate?** * Key responsibilities include assisting with patient care, monitoring vital signs, transporting patients, and maintaining a clean and safe environment. 4. **What skills are important for success in this role?** * Important skills include communication, teamwork, attention to detail, and compassion. 5. **What opportunities are there for career advancement?** * Clinical Associates can advance to roles such as CNA, LPN, or RN with experience and further education. 6. **What is the salary range for this position?** * The estimated annual salary range is $30,000 to $45,000, depending on experience and other factors. 7. **What benefits does WVU Medicine offer?** * WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off, and retirement savings plans. 8. **What is the work environment like at WVU Medicine?** * WVU Medicine is committed to creating a positive and supportive work environment. 9. **How do I apply for this position?** * Visit the WVU Medicine Careers website and search for the job title to apply online. 10. **What is it like living in Morgantown, WV?** * Morgantown is a vibrant city with a low cost of living, and offers a variety of recreational and cultural activities. It is considered by many to be a wonderful place to live and work.