Patient Care Technician, Adult Psychiatry, Part Time Night Shift

As a Patient Care Technician at UMMC Midtown Campus, your primary responsibility is to assist Registered Nurses in delivering high-quality patient care. You will be involved in various direct patient care activities, such as performing fingersticks, phlebotomy, and assisting with documentation. Your role is crucial in ensuring a safe environment for patients, responding promptly to their needs, and maintaining hospital standards.

To become a Patient Care Technician at UMMC Midtown Campus, you need a high school diploma or equivalent and a Maryland Nursing Assistant Certification. Additionally, completion of a relevant training program or equivalent work experience is required. Previous experience in direct patient care is preferred to ensure you are well-prepared for the role.

The Patient Care Technician role in Adult Psychiatry at UMMC Midtown Campus is a part-time position primarily during the night shift. This schedule allows you to engage in meaningful patient interactions while also having ample time for other commitments.

At UMMC Midtown Campus, our patient care philosophy emphasizes the importance of community and compassionate service. We prioritize the dignity and safety of our patients, ensuring that their needs are met with respect and empathy. By working together, we create a supportive environment that aims for the best health outcomes for all.

UMMC Midtown Campus provides numerous opportunities for professional development for Patient Care Technicians. You will participate in regular training sessions, orientation programs for new staff, and maintain yearly educational requirements to enhance your skills and career growth. Your ongoing education is important to us, as we believe in cultivating a knowledgeable and capable workforce.

When asked how to prioritize patient care tasks, highlight your ability to conduct quick assessments of patient needs and how you would communicate effectively with the nursing team. Describe how you prioritize based on urgency, patient safety, and established protocols, demonstrating your commitment to high-quality care.

Prepare to discuss relevant experiences in your previous roles. Share specific examples where you assisted with patient needs, performed medical procedures, and collaborated with nursing staff. Emphasize your understanding of patient care protocols, maintaining dignity and privacy, and how these experiences have prepared you for the Patient Care Technician position at UMMC Midtown Campus.

When responding to a patient in distress, convey your approach to remain calm and assess the situation immediately. Discuss the importance of alerting the Registered Nurse and following hospital protocols while providing reassurance to the patient, facilitating a supportive atmosphere.

Essential skills for a Patient Care Technician include strong communication, empathy, attention to detail, and clinical knowledge. Highlight how you embody these skills, providing examples of how you have used them in past patient care settings.

Discuss your familiarity with medical equipment relevant to patient care, such as EKG machines, oxygen supplies, and basic monitoring devices. Talk about any training you have in using these tools and how you ensure the safety and comfort of patients during procedures.

When asked about ensuring patient safety, discuss the importance of adhering to established safety protocols, being aware of alarm systems, maintaining cleanliness, and regularly completing safety checks. Share specific methodologies you have used to contribute to a safe care environment.

Pour your experience into discussing the dynamics of communication within a healthcare team. Explain how you prioritize clear, concise communication, the importance of active listening, and utilizing tools or methods that foster collaboration, especially during busy shifts.

Share your passion for helping others and your desire to positively impact patients' lives. Discuss any personal stories that have driven you toward this career path, reinforcing your commitment to providing exemplary care and support.

Explain your strategies for managing stress effectively, such as mindful breathing, focusing on the task at hand, or relying on teamwork. Illustrate your capability to stay calm under pressure, ensuring you provide the best care for your patients.

Demonstrate your knowledge of UMMC Midtown Campus's mission and values. Discuss the supportive work environment, dedication to community health, and the commitment to professional development, all of which make it an ideal place for Patient Care Technicians to thrive.