46 Waterbury Hospital jobs in Waterbury

Provide general patient care following standardized procedures that do not require state licensure for assigned unit, under the direction of an RN, according to the assigned patient population. Primary patient procedures may include ADL s, nutritiona Patient Care, Associate, Patient, Float, Healthcare

PURPOSE AND SCOPE:

Functions as part of the dialysis health care team in providing safe and effective home dialysis therapy and training for patients under the direct supervision of a licensed nurse under organization policies, procedures, and training and in compliance with regulations set forth by the corporation, state, and federal agencies. Assists in the setup of home dialysis equipment and the maintenance of a safe and clean working environment within the home therapy program. Supports the organization's commitment to the Quality Enhancement Program (QEP) and CQI Activities, including those related to patient satisfaction, and actively participates in process improvement activities that enhance the likelihood that patients will achieve the organization's Quality Enhancement Goals (QEP).

All duties and responsibilities of the PCT III HT are to be performed under the direct supervision of the Home Therapies registered nurse (HT RN), in compliance with, and as permissible per state laws, regulations, and policies.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Not Home Assist):

• Reinforces home hemodialysis (HHD) and/or peritoneal dialysis (PD) training as permitted by law.
• Identifies and welcomes patients, obtains vital signs, weights, and gathers information needed to complete the Clinic Visit Intake form.
• Builds and maintains effective communication and collaboration processes and rapport with patients, care partners, the HT RN, direct and non-direct patient care staff, providers, and other team members.
• Obtains treatment records from patients and/or systems, reviews for completion, and reports missing or abnormal data to the HT RN.
• Assists with electronic home treatment/medication/oral nutritional supplement reconciliation and reports missing data/orders to the HT RN.
• May assist HT RNs with home visits.
• Provides home support as applicable and permissible.
• Prepares supplies for the collection of prescribed laboratory testing and prepares specimens for shipping.
• Assists with the tracking and shipping of transplant-related laboratory specimens and reinforces transplant education.
• Completes opening/closing daily chores and documents as appropriate.
• Disinfects dialysis machines, chairs, tables, and other equipment in between patient visits, and routinely.
• Prepares the exam/training room for home dialysis training, treatment, or other visits.
• Stocks exam, training, treatment, and storage rooms with supplies.
• Develops or follows a process for the management of supplies to maximize use and minimize waste.
• Schedules patient appointments and contacts patients/caregivers regarding dates, times, and reminders.
• Supports patient registration and use of connected health.
• Assists patients and care partners with supplies/inventory ordering and management.
• Maintains logs and tracking.
• May order and track clinic/office supplies, as directed.
• Participates in medical records, infection control, and other audit processes as directed.
• Actively collaborates with others during staff huddles or meetings.
• Helps collect required documentation for patient admission, prepares and maintains the electronic and/or hard-copy patient chart, as directed.
• Performs other clerical duties, as assigned (answering phones, faxing, email, provider office contact, etc.).

Home Hemodialysis

• Reinforces HHD training and education with the HT training RN.

• Sets up, tears down, programs, tests, and disinfects the HHD machine, as directed.
• Troubleshoots HHD equipment and connectivity issues.

• Prepares dialysis equipment and supplies for HHD treatment, as directed.
• Evaluates the dialysis access before treatment, documents all findings in the medical record, and reports abnormal findings to the HT RN (when applicable, and as directed).
• Initiates HHD treatment, while monitoring and documenting patient status, vital signs, and machine data in the treatment record.
• Performs and documents safety checks during treatment at intervals designated by CMS and facility policy.
• Reports observed significant changes in patient status during treatment to the HT RN, and documents in the medical record.
• Provides interventions during treatment in response to interdialytic events, as required per provider/standing orders, as directed, permissible, and documents the intervention and patient’s response.
• Obtains pre-treatment termination vitals and documents in the treatment record.
• Ensures hemostasis of the patient dialysis access is achieved before leaving the treatment area. 
• Collects and documents post-treatment vitals in the treatment record and reports to the HT RN.
• Assists with quarterly, semi-annual, and annual water and dialysate testing, as directed.
• Other duties, as assigned.

Peritoneal Dialysis

• Reinforces PD training.
• Troubleshoots PD cycler, modem, and connectivity issues.

• Performs phlebotomy to obtain prescribed laboratory testing, as directed (must meet state and/or competency requirements to perform).
• Sets up PD cycler and prepares and warms PD solutions, as directed.
• Assists with exit site care, as directed.
• May help tracking with PD equipment.
• Other duties, as assigned.

Staff Related

• Participates in the recruitment process for new clinical staff.
• Assists with clinical orientation and supports ongoing training of all appropriate home therapies direct patient care personnel as well as the orientation of all facility staff to the organization.
• May function as a preceptor in-home therapy direct patient care training, as determined by state-specific guidelines and regulations, to support the delivery of quality patient care as per the standards outlined in the organization's Clinical Services Clinical Training Manual(s), organization policies and procedures, and organization training standards.
• Delivers and maintains ongoing competency evaluations/audits to ensure the ongoing performance of other PCTs.
• Collaborates with Clinic Management and Education Coordinator in driving organization quality standards through education regarding all ESRD regulatory and legal requirements and the practice of Continuous Quality Improvement.
• Assists in training of applicable direct patient care staff on appropriate programs under the supervision of a nurse.
• Provides developmental support to applicable clinical and facility staff.
• Partners with HT RN and IDT staff to educate the appropriate personnel regarding the maintenance of environmental integrity, including patient and staff safety, and of the facility.
• Ensures a strong communication process between Clinical Management, Education Coordinators, direct patient care staff, and all support staff at the facility regarding appropriate training and organizational development programs and initiatives.
• Participates in implementing and potentially designing creative educational programs for PCT staff including contests and other team-based programs.
• Partners with the all IDT members, including Kidney Care Advocates, administrative staff, and others in developing ideas to improve awareness of Home Therapies for in-center staff and patients.
• Collaborates with Clinical Management and Education Coordinators in the scheduling and implementation of training programs and processes as directed.
• Monitors processes in the delivery of patient care through regular Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) activities.
• Ensures all organizational business policies, procedures, and systems are incorporated into training, including compliance with ethical business practices.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS:

• The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
• Employees are required to take Ishihara's Color Blindness test as a condition of employment. Note that: Failing the Ishihara Test for Color Blindness does not preclude employment. The Company will consider whether reasonable accommodations can be made.
• Day-to-day work includes desk and personal computer work and interaction with patients, facility staff, and physicians. The position requires travel between assigned facilities and various locations within the community. Travel to regional, Business Unit and corporate meetings may be required.
• The work environment is characteristic of a health care facility with air temperature control and moderate noise levels. May be exposed to infectious and contagious diseases/materials.
• The position provides direct patient care that regularly involves heavy lifting and moving of patients and assisting with ambulation. Equipment aids and/or coworkers may assist. This position requires frequent, prolonged periods of standing and the employee must be able to bend over. The employee may occasionally be required to push and/or pull equipment, exerting up to 15 pounds of force. The employee may be required to lift and lower solutions frequently of up to 30 lbs., and on an occasional lift basis up to 40 lbs., as high as 5 feet. There is a two-person assist program and "material assist" devices for heavier items.

• High School diploma or G.E.D. required. Bachelor's degree preferred.
• Must have a valid PCT national certification or state-specific certification as defined by the Center for Medicaid/Medicare (CMS)AII appropriate state licensure, education, and training (if any) required.
• Demonstrated commitment to organization culture, values, and customer service standards.
• Attendance and active participation in all applicable preceptor training programs as established by education leadership.
• Attends Fresenius and publicly offered skill-based training as assigned by Clinical Management.

EXPERIENCE AND REQUIRED SKILLS :

• At least five years of patient care experience in a hospital setting or a related facility preferred.
• Continued employment is dependent on the successful completion of the organization's dialysis training program and successful completion of CPR certification.

Fresenius Medical Care maintains a drug-free workplace in accordance with applicable federal and state laws.

PURPOSE AND SCOPE:

Functions as part of the dialysis health care team in providing safe and effective dialysis therapy for patients under the direct supervision of a licensed nurse in accordance with organization policies, procedures, and training and in compliance with regulations set forth by the corporation, state, and federal agencies. Responsible for the setup and operation of hemodialysis machines. Assist in the maintenance of a safe and clean working environment. Supports the organization commitment to the Quality Enhancement Program (QEP) and CQI Activities, including those related to patient satisfaction and actively participates in process improvement activities that enhance the likelihood that patients will achieve the organization Quality Enhancement Goals (QEP).

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Patient Related

Education:

• Assist other health care members in providing patient specific detailed education regarding adequacy measures where appropriate - Online Clearance Monitoring (OLC), Adequacy Monitoring Program (AMP), Urea Kinetic Modeling (UKM), and regarding disease process/access.

Treatment:

• Welcome assigned patients and inquire as to their wellbeing since their last treatment.

• Evaluate vascular access for patency, perform vascular access cannulation, and perform administration of heparin as delegated or as allowed by state law.

• Obtain necessary pre and post treatment vital signs and weight and perform vascular access evaluation pre- treatment

• Initiate dialysis treatment according to prescribed orders including blood flow (QB) and dialysate flow (QD).   

• Evaluate intradialytic problems and provide intervention as prescribed by physician order or as directed.   

• Monitor patients’ response to dialysis therapy. 

• Obtain vital signs prior to reinfusion; perform all relevant functions necessary for the discontinuation of treatment - document.   

• Discontinue dialysis treatment according to established procedures and evaluate patient prior to termination of venous access - standing & sitting blood pressure

• Obtain Hemostasis and apply appropriate dressings.   

• Evaluate the patient prior to discharge.

• Perform and record Pre and Post dialysis evaluation, weight, and vital signs with initial identification   

• Responsible for calculating and entry of individual patients’ dialysis machine programming for Ultrafiltration (UF) goal; treatment time; and UF modeling as prescribed.   

• Responsible for ensuring appropriate safety alarms are enabled, including Narrow Venous Limits, (NVL) 160.   

• Record accurate and timely information regarding vital signs and treatment parameters onto the Hemodialysis Treatment Sheet with initial identification   

• Responsible for accurate documentation of information related to patient treatment including completion of Hemodialysis Treatment Sheet and, if applicable, progress notes.   

• Report any significant information and/or change in patient condition directly to the registered nurse or supervisor.

• Observe patient and conduct machine safety checks according to facility policy. Report any change or unusual findings to the registered nurse or supervisor.

• Perform and document any intervention for unusual patient status and document patients' response to intervention.

• Evaluate patients’ vascular access during treatment including arterial and venous monitoring pressures, provide appropriate intervention as needed, document and report any unusual findings to the registered nurse or supervisor.

• Obtain all prescribed laboratory testing and prepare specimens for collection.   

• Ensure that all blood spills are immediately cleaned with appropriate disinfectant according to facility policy.   

• Prepare, organize, and efficiently utilize supplies and equipment to prevent wastage.   

• Monitors patients performing self-care under the supervision of RN.

Staff Related

• Assists in training of applicable direct patient care staff on appropriate programs under the supervision of a nurse.

Education/Communication:

• Follows all organization business policies, procedures and systems incorporated into training, including compliance with ethical business practices

• Maintain environmental integrity and aesthetics - ensure all areas are safe and clean.

• Clean and disinfect dialysis machine surface, chair, equipment, and surrounding area between treatments according to facility policy.

• Conduct all tasks necessary for preparation for dialysis treatment and document where appropriate and perform all required pretreatment dialysis machine alarm testing including Pressure Holding (PHT).

• Initiate Solution Delivery System (SDS) system.

RECORD KEEPING:

• Complete and document ongoing participation in Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) activities.  

• Enters all treatment data into the designated clinical application in an accurate and timely manner.   

• Review treatment sheets for completeness, ensure nursing signatures are documented, and ensure

omitted entries are completed or corrected by appropriate staff.

• Prepare initial patient chart for admission and compile paperwork for appropriate placement in chart.

• Prepare/print lab requisitions for prescribed or stat Lab specimens according to laboratory destination.   

• Collect, label, appropriately prepare and store lab samples according required laboratory specifications.   

• Ensure collection of lab specimens by appropriate lab courier.

INFECTION CONTROL:

• Assists in collecting  information for infection control audits.   

• Supports staff and patient Adherence to infection control practices.   

• Follows infection control Policies and Procedures   

• Participates in and reinforces infection control education of patients and families under the direction of the CM or designee as allowed by state law.

TRANSITIONAL CARE UNIT:

• Follows all newly admitted patients through their first 4 weeks of dialysis and coordinating their transitional dialysis care 

• Reinforces all education and care related matters as it relates to the new patient     as allowed by state law

• Liaisons with appropriate FKC staff members to provide the best patient experience including making sure all disciplines are scheduled to see patient according to plan.   

• Assists in assuring patient understanding or home dialysis products, benefits of home and how home dialysis can work for them.

• Sets and preforms a treatment on all machines used in the transitional care unit.

• Assist in assuring patient understanding of treatment options including demonstration of the peritoneal dialysis set-up.

• Assists with coordination of transition to patient’s modality choice.   

• Assists with supply ordering and inventory for TCU   

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS:

encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable

individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Employees are required to take the Ishihara's Color Blindness test as a condition of employment. Note that: Failing the

Ishihara Test for Color Blindness does not preclude employment. The Company will consider whether reasonable

accommodations can be made.

• Day to day work includes desk and personal computer work and interaction with patients, facility staff, and physicians. The position requires travel between assigned facilities and various locations within the community. Travel to regional, Business Unit and Corporate meetings may be required.   

• The work environment is characteristic of a health care facility with air temperature control and moderate noise levels. May be exposed to infectious and contagious diseases/materials   

• The position provides direct patient care that regularly involves heavy lifting and moving of patients and assisting with ambulation. Equipment aids and/or coworkers may provide assistance. This position requires frequent, prolonged periods of standing and the employee must be able to bend over. The employee may occasionally be required to push and/or pull equipment, exerting up to 15 pounds of force. The employee may be required to lift and to lower solutions on a frequent basis of up to 30 lbs., and on an occasional lift basis up to 40 lbs., as high as 5 feet. There is a two-person assist program and "material assist” devices for the heavier items.

EDUCATION AND LICENSES:

• High School diploma or G.E.D. required.

• Must meet Center for Medicaid/Medicare Services (CMS)-approved state and/or national certification requirements within the required state or CMS timeline.

• All appropriate state licensure, education, and training (if any) required.

• Demonstrated commitment to organization culture, values, and customer service standards

EXPERIENCE AND REQUIRED SKILLS :

• Previous patient care experience in a hospital setting or a related facility preferred.

• Continued employment is dependent on successful completion of the organization dialysis training program and successful completion of CPR certification.

Fresenius Medical Care maintains a drug-free workplace in accordance with applicable federal and state laws.

• 1. Under the direction of the Clinical Nurse, engages in selected tasks and activities as directed to obtain and report information to assist the nurse in the assessment, planning and evaluation of patient needs, treatment and response to treatment.
• 1.1 Obtains and records vital signs as delegated by the RN
• 2. Under the direction of the Clinical Nurse, performs technical duties and selected treatments, procedures and activities which contribute to safe and efficient delivery of patient care.
• 2.1 Obtains a 12-lead ECG and continuous Lead II with correct patient information entered.
• 3. Effectively assists in the care of patients with consideration for the safety of key populations as appropriate.
• 3.1 Collaborates with members of the multidisciplinary team offering suggestions on addressing patient/family needs, taking into account cultural and/or individual diversity and demonstrates sensitivity to these aspects of care delivery.
• 4. Effectively and professionally communicates and interacts with patients, families, and staff.
• 4.1 Covers the Business Associate (BA ) desk in the absence of the BA under the direction of the PSM or designee.

EDUCATION

A minimum of a high school diploma or GED; and CNA or other educational equivalent, i.e. Medical Assistant, Phlebotomy Technician, Student Nurse who has completed one semester of clinical experience. Additional experience preferred will be specified depending on placement.

EXPERIENCE

Either (A) Two (2) years relevant direct patient care experience as dictated by placement. or (B) Education as stated above. All candidates must successfully complete the Patient Care Associate Competency Based Training and Practicum and unit specific competencies, including age-specific competencies.

SPECIAL SKILLS

Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with patient, families, peers, and supervisor. Must display the ability to prioritize and adjust work plans based on the needs of the patient, the unit, and the patient care team. Must display the ability to accept direction and work as a member of a unified team.
CPR required.

PHYSICAL DEMAND

Able to lift a minimum of 40 pounds. Ability to perform tasks of physical endurance and dexterity as required by placement. Consistent use of proper body mechanics.

• Under the direction of an RN, perform selected tasks and activities to obtain and report information to assist the nurse in the assessment, planning and evaluation of patient needs, treatment and response to treatment.

• Under the direction of the RN, perform selected patient related activities, diagnostic testing and therapeutic treatments which contribute to safe and efficient delivery of patient care.

• Utilize initiative to respond to patient needs, effectively communicating with other team members to provide excellent quality service.

• Responsible for following all organization and department precautions and procedures in the performance of all job duties to ensure a safe work environment for self and others.

• Order and maintain supplies/equipment within budget parameters. Ensure cost-effective utilization of resources within own control.

• Participate in staff meetings, attends in-services and maintains required general/unit/department specific competencies.

• Support and participates in the QI process.

• Observe the cardiac monitor. Print rhythm strips, perform measurement, identify and record patient's rhythm pattern. Recognize and communicate any changes in patient data to RN and/or medical staff.

• Perform related duties as required.

• Good oral and written communication and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of medical terminology.
• CPR certified.
• Ability to read and write English with a command of verbal English.
• Ability to work well and collaboratively with other members of the health care team
• Ability to maintain patient confidentiality.
• Ability to work in a time-oriented environment including exposure to all patient elements i.e., blood borne pathogens, physical requirements include lifting and pulling of patients, pushing of stretchers, standing and walking.
• May be exposed to environmental hazards such as anesthetic gases or elements.
• Ability to meet the care needs of the patient populations served.

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Successful completion of Certified Nursing Assistant Program required.
• Successful completion of WH Basic ECG Interpretation and Cardiac Monitoring Course for Monitor Watcher required.
• Successful completion of a formal training program to include direct patient care activities and technical procedures such as: EKG testing and Phlebotomy
• Must have basic computer skills and ability to access internet and other programs applicable to Waterbury Hospital procedures.
• Perform automated functions that fall within job responsibility.