A patient care technician (PTA) works closely with patients that are under the care of a physician. The type of patients they care for can range from having mild injuries to life threatening diseases. Their responsibility is to tend to the patients, monitor their conditions, and report any changes to a nurse or physician. The PTA is responsible for making sure vitals are taken at the required times, provide treatments as directed, distribute medications and do laboratory work as needed. Another part of the job is to assist in everyday tasks that some patients can no longer do on their own. They must help with maintaining good hygiene such as helping patients to brush their teeth or comb their hair. Technicians sometimes help a patient to shower, and with bathroom duties. They assist with feedings when a patient cannot feed themselves. They can also provide a form of physical therapy under a physician's orders. They must accurately fill patient charts or update any records or reports. A crucial part of a PTA's job is patient care, therefore, it is essential for all patients to be provided with the best care possible. They must also be team players and assist co-workers as well as patients. PTAs can be found working in hospitals, nursing homes, and rehabilitation facilities. They are sometimes hired as private caretakers, and can even live in the patient's home to provide around-the-clock care.
Patient Care Technician Tasks
- Prepare, update and disseminates unit reports, physician orders and patient records.
- Provide basic therapeutic services under direction of nursing staff.
- Provide basic patient care under direction of nursing staff.
- Support the administrative and clinical operations of the practice.