Patient Safety Companion

MyMichigan/ACC Nursing Program Tuition Coverage Program

This position is designed for Alpena Community College Nursing students currently enrolled in the Clinical Nursing Program. Employees in this program will work as either Patient Safety Companions or Patient Care Technician based on eligibility and progress in nursing program throughout the duration of their nursing education at ACC. The Patient Safety Companion exists to provide observation for the patient who requires close continuous observation for protection from harm. Employees will report directly to a unit or department leader, receiving high level oversight. The Clinical Assistant's role is to assist the Registered Nurse (RN) and Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in ensuring the patient is safe, comfortable and clean.

A Day in the Life of a Patient Safety Companion at MyMichigan Health:

• (20%)* As directed by the RN: provides stand by assistance during patient ambulation, accompanies the patient when being transported to other departments; assists the patient with tasks that aren't required to be performed by the RN or Care Assistant such as assisting with meals if directed by RN.
• (25%)* Maintains a calm, clean, and safe environment. Follows the appropriate level of safety precautions and PPE utilization while observing the patient. Maintains confidentiality.
• (20%)* Documents observations accurately and timely as directed by the RN.
• (20%)* Immediately communicates significant information to the RN such as changes in the patient's behavior or condition. Follows emergency procedures in the event of any emergency situation such as an accident, injury, or significant change in the patient's condition.
• (20%)* Remains awake, alert, calm, and professional, staying in constant view of the patient at all times and focused on the patient at all times.

A Day in the Life of a Patient Care Technician at MyMichigan Health:

• (20%)* Assesses the need for assisting with neonatal, pediatric, adolescent, adult, and geriatric patient care and performing other patient related tasks, recognizing the specific individual needs based on patient age groups unique to assigned unit(s).
• (20%)* Plans and prioritizes patient care functions to meet patients' health care needs.
• (20%)* Implements actions that compliment and support nursing care.
• (20%)* Evaluates the effectiveness of care provided to ensure quality care and patient related issues are completed in a timely manner.
• (20%)* Self-Management and accountability for delivery of responsible patient care, demonstrates effective communication skills and interpersonal relationships. Assumes responsibility for own continued development and assists with the development of other staff members.

Required Education

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Current enrollment in ACC Nursing Program.
• CNA, LPN, EMT, MA, or PCT certification or completion of one semester of nursing clinical education required for Patient Care Technician position.

*NOTE: PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS MAY BE APPLICABLE WITH THIS POSITION.

Refer to job description for a complete list of requirements.