Patient Care Technician (PCT), Telemetry

As a Patient Care Technician (PCT) at University of Maryland Shore Regional Health, you will be responsible for providing direct patient care, including taking vital signs, assisting with daily activities, performing blood draws, and monitoring patients' conditions. Your role is crucial in ensuring patient comfort and safety, and you will collaborate with nursing staff to report any changes in patient status.

To qualify for the Patient Care Technician (PCT) position at University of Maryland Shore Regional Health, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, current Maryland state certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Geriatric Nursing Assistant (GNA), and a Basic Life Support (BLS) certification. There is no prior experience required, but having previous direct patient care experience is preferred.

New Patient Care Technicians (PCTs) at University of Maryland Shore Regional Health typically undergo an orientation and training program designed to familiarize them with the facility's protocols, patient care best practices, and safety procedures. This process ensures that PCTs are well-prepared to support patients and collaborate effectively with the healthcare team.

The work environment for a Patient Care Technician (PCT) at University of Maryland Shore Regional Health is collaborative, supportive, and focused on patient-centered care. You will be part of an interdisciplinary team, working closely with nursing and medical staff, which fosters a sense of community and professional growth within the beautiful setting of Easton, MD.

As a Patient Care Technician (PCT) at University of Maryland Shore Regional Health, you will have various opportunities for career advancement. You can enhance your qualifications through continued education and training, potentially moving into nursing roles or specialized positions within healthcare, depending on your interests and goals.

Speaking about your motivation will help show your passion for healthcare. Highlight your desire to make a difference in patients' lives, your interest in gaining hands-on experience in a medical environment, and how this role aligns with your career goals.

When answering, focus on your relevant experiences, whether through volunteer work, internships, or any previous employment. Discuss specific tasks you performed and how they enhanced your skills in patient interaction and care.

You can demonstrate your organizational skills by explaining how you assess each patient's needs, prioritize based on urgency, and manage your time effectively to ensure all patients receive necessary care in a timely manner.

In your answer, mention specific practices like following protocols, keeping a safe environment, using proper lifting techniques, and monitoring patients closely. Stress the importance of communication with the healthcare team to promote overall safety.

Discuss your approach to manipulation and de-escalation, emphasizing empathy and effective communication. Talk about the importance of active listening and how you would work to understand their concerns while maintaining a professional demeanor.

This question allows you to illustrate your observational skills. State how you would document your observations, notify the nursing staff promptly, and ensure to follow whatever protocol is in place to escalate the care needed.

Mention techniques such as remaining organized, taking deep breaths, and focusing on one task at a time. It’s important to express that you view stress management as a continuous learning process in a healthcare setting.

Explain that teamwork allows for better patient care through collaboration, improved communication, and ensuring that all aspects of patient needs are met efficiently. Highlight examples of effective teamwork in your past experiences.

Discuss skills such as empathy, communication, attention to detail, and physical stamina. Make sure to relate how these skills apply specifically in providing care and support for patients.

Emphasize the importance of being meticulous and consistent when recording patient information. Discuss any experience you have with documentation processes and how thorough records contribute to effective patient care.