I work with oncology patients who often have a PICC line or lymphedema so, I always observe what wristband(s) the patient has on. This task takes approximately 1-2 minutes. (Some patients love to talk and others may seem like you’re bothering them, so just feel out their energy.)Īfter making small talk and tidying up a bit I will then take the patient’s vitals. Keep in mind that you want to maintain eye contact as best as you can and be engaged in conversation while you multitask. Patient’s Possessions -call light, water, cell phone, and any other necessities are within the patient’s reach. Hazard Free -no wires sticking out or noticeable spills on the floor, the bed is locked and lowered, one side rail up, and bed alarm on (this won’t apply to every patient but most patients are on fall precautions). You want to look out for anything that could be hazardous or trash that needs to be thrown out.Ĭlean -patient’s bedside table is organized, bed linens appear clean and wrinkle-free, the countertop is cleared off from unnecessary items (place extra supplies in cabinets or drawers), and the trash isn’t overflowing. 10 Premed Jobs That Will Get You Valuable Clinical Experienceīe sure to scan the room and observe the environment as you make small talk with the patient.Insanely Useful Medical Terms and Abbreviations for Students.What I Actually Did to Become a Patient Care Technician. I’m here to take your vital signs.” A few questions you can ask the patient as you update the whiteboard with your name: “Hi, my name is Tara and I’ll be your Patient Care Technician tonight. There are two things you need to do before entering a patient’s room 1) knock 2) sanitize/wash your hands.Īs I enter the room, I will push my vitals machine slightly to the side as I make eye contact with the patient and introduce myself. I’ll glance over that patient on my report sheet before walking into the room to answer their call light and do their vitals. There’s a small basket attached to the vitals machine, which I stock up with any essential items I may need throughout my shift such as:Īt this time a call light is probably going off, so we need to answer this call light in a timely manner. Then, I’ll find the AM patient care technician who has my patients and get report.Īfter receiving report, I’ll sanitize my vitals machine and workstation. When this is over, I grab an assignment sheet and print my patient list. The huddle starts at exactly 19:00 (I work night shift) where the assistant nurse manager will lead the team in a brief meeting before the shift begins.
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