Unit Description: The Total Joint unit, also known as 5a, is a 21 bed unit that provides preoperative and postoperative care to patients age 15 and up. Our population consist of Total Joint patients who have had their hip or knee replaced, orthopedics patients, which includes those with traumatic injuries, general surgery patients such a laparoscopic appendectomy, laparoscopic cholecystectomy, etc.), and a variety of medical patients. We also provide care to patients who are considered class 2 telemetry patients. Our unit is unique, as we work very closely with physical therapy in the care of our joint patients, to ensure early mobilization of patients, which leads to our patients experiencing a sooner recovery and discharge to home. We also have a very collaborative relationship with the physicians, which enhances the patient’s experience. Most of our patients utilize our outpatient pharmacy, and have their medication delivered to the bedside, and education provided for by a pharmacist. This process aids in patient being compliant in getting their prescribed medications, and potentially being more compliant in using them, due to the ease in getting them delivered during discharge.
Purpose & Scope:
The Patient Safety Technician works under the direct supervision of the RN and is an active member of the health care team. Under the direct supervision of a licensed nurse, the Patient Safety Technician performs a variety of routine duties to include: feeding, dressing, or toileting, observing changes in the status of patients, maintaining the safety of patients who are confused, at high risk for falls, or require one-to-one observation, providing a clean and safe environment, assisting with department tasks as needed, transporting patients, unit secretary tasks, and other related duties. Patient Safety Technicians must be empathetic and have good communication and skills to care for patients.
Education:
High School Diploma or equivalent is required.
Experience:
Experience in customer service is preferred.
Certification/Licensure:
BLS certification is required.
Hospital Information: VHC Health is a 453-bed not-for-profit nationally recognized Hospital and teaching facility that has been delivering high quality care to the Washington, DC metropolitan area for over 75 years. VHC Health is a designated Level II Trauma Center and a recognized Magnet Facility by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Recent accomplishments include the brand new opening of our massive Outpatient Pavilion and that VHC is now the Washington Commanders Football provider for women's health as of 2023. We are proud to announce that the Leapfrog Group has awarded the hospital with an 'A' grade in Hospital Safety for the 19th year in a row, achieved an Outstanding Patient Experience Award™ for the 10th year in a row and has ranked Number 2 in “Best Hospitals” in the Washington, DC area by U.S. News and World Report's 2021-2022 rankings. At VHC Health we are always striving to provide continued excellence and growth for our employees as well as top notch care for our patients.