Telemetry Technician / CNA

Major Responsibilities:
Continuously monitor and interpret EKGs of patients on telemetry.
1)Admit and discharge patients from telemetry monitoring system.

2)Interpret and document EKG rhythms.

3)Notify appropriate staff for lead wires off, electrode and battery changes, and proper lead placement to ensure optimal QRS configuration on the telemetry monitor.

4)Maintenance of appropriate communication logs.

5)Report all changes in patient’s rhythm to appropriate staff.

6)Consult Registered Nurse for complex arrhythmia analysis and interpretations.

7)Provide documentation for the medical record of the patient’s baseline and rhythm and with any changes in heart rhythm.

8)Document EKG strips from the monitors as appropriate during routine and emergency interventions.

9)Promotes patient safety by reporting of issues through established channels and participating as requested in safety initiatives.

Maintain equipment and supplies.
1)Maintain supply inventory and equipment, assuring supplies are ordered as needed.

2)Clean lead wires and transmitters after each patient use and return them to stock.

3)Notify BioMed of all malfunctions and problems with equipment as soon as possible.

4)Maintain service equipment logs as appropriate.

Orient new personnel to operation of the monitoring/arrhythmia system, as well as review interpretation of rhythm strips.
1)Train all new personnel in the operation of the telemetry equipment; review EKG interpretation

Participation in performance improvement initiatives as requested.

Provides general patient care duties that are specific to the patient population served, under the direction of the Registered Nurse.
1)Provides personal care to include bathing the patient, oral and denture care, shave,backrub and skin care.

2)Assists patient with appropriate activity order, including proper positioning, ambulation, ROM and special transferring needs.

3)Assists with toileting needs of patients including toileting cues, care on the incontinent patient, proper use of diapers, identification of patients with high risk for skin breakdown.

4)Responds to call lights and patient requests or refers to appropriate person.

5)Provides care and maintenance of indwelling catheters or tubes.

6)Collects, prepares, and transports specimens as directed by RN.

7)Assists physicians with bedside procedures as deemed appropriate.

8)Performs oral suctioning using a yankauer suctioning instrument, as delegated by RN.

Performs tasks related to the integrity of patient care standards and efficient unit operations.
1)Demonstrates ability to respond to emergency situations.

2)Provides a safe environment for patients such as correct use and documentation of restraints and restraint alternatives, proper use of equipment coming in direct contact with patients

3)Maintains and develops technical skills by attending mandatory unit inservices, and participates in Continuous Quality Improvement Process

4)Assist with maintenance of equipment for the unit

5)Works within the policies and procedures of infection control by demonstrating knowledge of sterile and aseptic procedures, proper disposal of contaminated materials and proper attire when in direct contact with patients on isolation precautions.

6)Maintains confidentiality of information

7)Demonstrates responsibility and accountability for conduct and attire while on duty

8)When in the capacity of a patient sitter will provide continuous surveillance for patients who have been identified as a safety risk by the attending physician

9)Cleans and maintains rooms, other patient/staff areas, and unit specific equipment.

Participates in the Admission,Discharge, and Transfer process of all patients under the guidance of the Registered Nurse, or designee.
1)Sets up patient’s room with linen and patient care supplies as needed.

2)Orients patient and family to room, including physical layout of the room, call lights, bed functions, TV use and telephone

3)Obtains vital signs including height and weight

4)During admission/transfer/discharge ensures that all patient belongings are accounted for and documented

5)Provides post-mortem care

Performs tasks related to meeting the nutritional needs of the patient.
1)Reviews diet order to ensure patient is receiving proper diet

2)Assists patient with meals, including passing water and nourishments

3)Provides proper tray setup and patient positioning with consideration to special needs

4)Assists patient in menu selection

5)Monitors intake and output and provide accurate information for calorie and/or carb count.

Contributes to the patient plan of care through the documentation and/or communication of patient needs, problems and outcomes to other health care providers.
1)Documents patient information on appropriate forms

2)Listens and responds to internal/external customers in a respectful manner

3)Supports patient and family teaching by working with the health care team to ensure patient access to appropriate information and resources

4)Acts as a patient/family advocate by providing comfort, assistance and information.

Education/Experience Required:
High school diploma. Certified Nurses Assistant Certification (CNA). Completion of required EKG course within 60 days of hire.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required:
• Ability to interpret basic EKG rhythm. • Up to 12 months of arrhythmia interpretation (preferred). Knowledge of basic computer keyboard functions is preferred. Courteous and professional interpersonal skills. Demonstrate responsible and ethical behaviors consistent with the Advocate values (Equality, Compassion, Excellence, Partnership, Stewardship).
• CPR Certification • Successful completion of Advocate Healthcare Basic EKG exam within 60 days of hire. CNA certification.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:
• Must be flexible in order to meet staffing requirements • Will work with electrical equipment, cleaning solutions. • May interact with patients who may have infectious disease processes. • Must have good visual acuity necessary to see EKG rhythms. • Must be able to communicate verbally. • Must be able to hear alarms. • This position will need to recognize the needs and behaviors of a variety of age groups of patients treated, i.e., understanding child growth and development, normal patterns of adolescent behavior and look for signs of normal aging. Prior experience with various age groups preferred. • Ability to work various shifts any day of the week, including holidays to provide coverage. • Exposure to various contagious disease, radiation, chemicals, caustic materials, electrical equipment and hazards associated with their use. • Ability to lift 50lbs. or more may be required.
If position has direct patient care or direct patient contact the following lifting requirement supersedes any previous lifting requirement effective 06/01/2015. Ability to lift up to 35 pounds without assistance. For patient lifts of over 35 pounds, or when patient is unable to assist with the lift, patient handling equipment is expected to be used, with at least one other associate, when available. Unique patient lifting/movement situations will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

This job description indicates the general nature and level of work expected of the incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the incumbent. Incumbent may be required to perform other related duties.