## Patient Care Technician - Critical Care (Part-Time) at WVU Medicine Weirton Medical Center Are you passionate about providing compassionate care to patients in a critical care setting? WVU Medicine Weirton Medical Center is seeking a dedicated and skilled Patient Care Technician (PCT) to join our team on a part-time basis. As a PCT in our critical care unit, you will play a vital role in assisting patients with their daily needs, monitoring their vital signs, and providing support to the nursing staff. ### Role Overview The Patient Care Technician assists with the provision of patient care under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN) or licensed practical nurse (LPN). This role requires a responsible and professional approach, adhering to all standards of nursing care, hospital policies and procedures, and current regulations governing nursing practice in West Virginia. The PCT contributes to a safe and comfortable environment for patients while supporting the critical care team. ### A Day in the Life of a Patient Care Technician Each day as a Patient Care Technician in the critical care unit at WVU Medicine Weirton Medical Center is dynamic and focused on providing the best possible patient experience. Here's a glimpse into your daily routine: * **Assisting with Patient Care:** You will help patients with various activities, including bathing, dressing, and feeding, while ensuring their comfort and safety. * **Monitoring Vital Signs:** Regularly checking and recording patients' vital signs, such as temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate, to track their condition. * **Collecting Specimens:** Gathering specimens for laboratory testing, ensuring accurate labeling and timely delivery to the lab. * **Assisting with Mobility:** Helping patients move, sit, and ambulate, following safety protocols and using assistive devices as needed. * **Maintaining a Clean Environment:** Ensuring that patient rooms and common areas are clean, organized, and well-stocked with supplies. * **Communicating with the Nursing Team:** Reporting any changes in patient condition or concerns to the RN or LPN, contributing to effective communication within the healthcare team. * **Providing Emotional Support:** Offering compassionate support to patients and their families, helping to alleviate anxiety and promote a positive healing environment. * **Documenting Patient Care:** Accurately documenting all care provided in the patient's electronic medical record. * **Responding to Call Lights:** Answering patient call lights promptly and addressing their needs or relaying requests to the appropriate healthcare professional. ### Why Weirton, West Virginia? Weirton, West Virginia, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and convenient access to larger metropolitan areas. Located in the northern panhandle of West Virginia, Weirton provides a family-friendly environment with a strong sense of community. The area boasts affordable housing, good schools, and a variety of recreational opportunities, including parks, hiking trails, and local events. You'll also find a welcoming atmosphere and a lower cost of living compared to many other parts of the country. The close proximity to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, provides access to big-city amenities, cultural attractions, and diverse dining experiences. ### Career Path for Patient Care Technicians The role of a Patient Care Technician can be a stepping stone to various career advancement opportunities within WVU Medicine. Here are some potential career paths: * **Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA):** After gaining experience as a PCT, you can pursue CNA certification to enhance your skills and knowledge. * **Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN):** With further education and licensure, you can become an LPN, taking on increased responsibilities in patient care. * **Registered Nurse (RN):** You can pursue an Associate's or Bachelor's degree in nursing to become a Registered Nurse, leading and coordinating patient care. * **Specialized PCT Roles:** With experience, you can specialize in specific areas such as emergency care, oncology, or cardiac care. * **Leadership Roles:** You can advance to leadership positions such as charge PCT or team leader, overseeing the work of other PCTs. WVU Medicine is committed to supporting the professional growth of its employees through continuing education, training programs, and mentorship opportunities. ### Salary and Benefits While the specific salary for this part-time Patient Care Technician position is not explicitly stated, WVU Medicine offers competitive compensation and benefits packages. The estimated salary range for PCTs in the Weirton, West Virginia area is $30,000 to $42,000 per year. This figure can vary based on experience, certifications, and other factors. In addition to competitive pay, WVU Medicine provides a comprehensive benefits package that may include: * **Health Insurance:** Medical, dental, and vision coverage * **Paid Time Off (PTO):** Vacation, sick, and personal days * **Retirement Plan:** 401(k) or other retirement savings plan with employer matching * **Life Insurance:** Coverage to protect your family * **Disability Insurance:** Short-term and long-term disability benefits * **Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA):** For healthcare and dependent care expenses * **Employee Assistance Program (EAP):** Confidential counseling and support services * **Tuition Reimbursement:** Assistance for continuing education * **Employee Discounts:** On various products and services ### WVU Medicine Culture WVU Medicine is a leading healthcare system in West Virginia, committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. Our culture is built on a foundation of: * **Teamwork:** We value collaboration and work together to achieve common goals. * **Respect:** We treat each other with dignity and respect, fostering a positive and inclusive work environment. * **Compassion:** We are committed to providing compassionate care to our patients and their families. * **Innovation:** We embrace new ideas and technologies to improve patient outcomes. * **Excellence:** We strive for excellence in everything we do. As a member of the WVU Medicine team, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others while working in a supportive and rewarding environment. ### How to Apply If you are interested in joining our team as a Patient Care Technician in the critical care unit, we encourage you to apply online through the WVU Medicine careers website. To apply to this position and be considered, click the Apply button located above and complete the application in full. Please include your resume and cover letter, highlighting your relevant skills and experience. ### Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) **1. What are the minimum qualifications for this position?** The minimum qualifications include a High School Diploma or equivalent, Basic Life Support (BLS) certification within 30 days of hire, and current West Virginia Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification OR completion of a hospital-based Patient Care Technician program OR Nursing Student. **2. Is prior experience required for this role?** While one year of clinical experience is preferred, it is not required. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply. **3. What are the key responsibilities of a Patient Care Technician?** Key responsibilities include assisting with patient care, monitoring vital signs, collecting specimens, assisting with mobility, maintaining a clean environment, communicating with the nursing team, and providing emotional support. **4. What is the work schedule for this part-time position?** The work schedule for this part-time position will vary depending on the needs of the critical care unit. You will be required to work a flexible schedule, including some weekends and holidays. **5. What opportunities are there for career advancement at WVU Medicine?** WVU Medicine is committed to supporting the professional growth of its employees. There are opportunities to advance to positions such as CNA, LPN, RN, specialized PCT roles, and leadership roles. **6. What is the culture like at WVU Medicine?** WVU Medicine has a culture of teamwork, respect, compassion, innovation, and excellence. We strive to provide a supportive and rewarding work environment for our employees. **7. What benefits are offered to employees at WVU Medicine?** WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive benefits package that may include health insurance, paid time off, retirement plan, life insurance, disability insurance, flexible spending accounts, employee assistance program, tuition reimbursement, and employee discounts. **8. How do I apply for this position?** You can apply for this position online through the WVU Medicine careers website. Please submit your resume and cover letter, highlighting your relevant skills and experience. **9. What is the dress code for Patient Care Technicians?** The dress code for Patient Care Technicians typically involves wearing scrubs in a specified color, closed-toe shoes, and adhering to infection control guidelines. **10. Is there a training program for new Patient Care Technicians?** Yes, WVU Medicine provides a comprehensive training program for new Patient Care Technicians to ensure they have the skills and knowledge necessary to provide safe and effective patient care.