Patient Care Assistant – Pulmonary Unit

About the role

The Patient Care Assistant on the Pulmonary Unit provides direct bedside support to patients, assisting registered nurses with hands‑on care, activities of daily living and specific technical tasks. The role works day shifts on a full‑time basis in a 444‑bed hospital.

Key responsibilities

• Take and record vital signs, weight, height and intake‑output measurements.
• Encourage patients to turn, cough, use incentive spirometry and perform deep‑breathing exercises.
• Assist patients with ambulation, transfers, bed‑to‑wheelchair movements and transport.
• Provide personal care such as bed baths, oral hygiene, dressing, linen changes and room upkeep.
• Empty and document drains, canisters, urine bags, bedpans and emesis basins.
• Maintain a safe environment by reporting equipment issues and handling supplies.
• Perform basic wound and ostomy care, apply/remove abdominal binders, anti‑embolism stockings and compression devices.
• Collect urine, stool and sputum specimens as ordered.
• Assist with range‑of‑motion exercises and use of ambulatory devices.
• Perform phlebotomy and EKGs after completing required training.
• Respond promptly to patient call lights and requests.

Required profile

• High school diploma or equivalent; certification as a patient care assistant or CNA preferred.
• Ability to work under the supervision of a Team Leader and registered nurses.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to patient safety.
• Willingness to perform physical tasks such as lifting, turning and repositioning patients.

Required skills

• Phlebotomy (trained)
• Electrocardiogram (EKG) performance (trained)
• Vital signs measurement
• Specimen collection (urine, stool, sputum)

What we offer

• Comprehensive benefits package including tuition reimbursement and student loan assistance.
• Certification bonuses and leadership development programs.
• Opportunity to work in a Joint Commission Comprehensive Stroke Center with advanced medical technology.