Experienced Patient Care Technician

DaVita is seeking an Experienced Patient Care Technician (PCT) to assist registered nurses in providing dialysis treatment for patients with End-Stage Kidney Disease (ESKD). This role is based in Westland, Michigan, and requires proficiency in intermediate PCT duties, including recommending dialysis plans for ultrafiltration to registered nurses and reinforcing patient education.

Clinical Setting

You will work in a dialysis clinic providing direct patient care in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations.

Responsibilities

• Receive patients into the treatment/exam area; weigh patients and take temperature and blood pressure readings before and after dialysis; document all findings on dialysis flow sheets
• Perform and record vital signs and other parameters for ESKD patients according to DaVita policy and state regulations
• Obtain blood samples and culture specimens and prepare them for shipment
• Monitor and document the status of vascular accesses
• Document patient observations and seek guidance when levels fall outside normal ranges
• Report patient parameters to the registered nurse as needed
• Initiate dialysis via approved accesses using proper cannulation or central venous catheter techniques in accordance with state, federal, and local regulations
• Review dialysis prescriptions and assess the general physical and mental condition of patients through observation and interview
• Obtain information and data to determine patient compliance with dietary or medication regimens
• Document observations on patient vital signs applicable to critically ill patients
• Administer fluid therapy or other appropriate treatments as directed by the nurse
• Set up and monitor dialysis machines and reverse osmosis water systems for correct functioning
• Respond to visual and audible alarms and make appropriate adjustments before, during, and after dialysis treatment
• Perform safety checks as directed by the registered nurse
• Dismantle, clean, and disinfect dialysis machines and equipment according to DaVita procedures
• Perform end-of-therapy terminal cleaning and disinfection of dialysis equipment with guidance from the nurse or preceptor
• Perform clerical duties as needed, including filing, lab requisitions, scheduling appointments, answering phones, ordering supplies, billing, copying, faxing, data entry, and maintaining patient charts

Schedule

Expected shifts: 3-4 days per week with a minimum of two Saturdays per month. You may be asked to start as early as 4:00 am. You must have a flexible schedule and be able to work mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays. Hours of work may vary during the training period; however, you will typically work 32-40 hours per week during training.

Required Qualifications

• Accredited high school diploma, general education development (GED) credential, or equivalent
• Basic computer skills and proficiency in Microsoft Word and Outlook
• Current cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification (or must be obtained within 60 days of employment)
• Dialysis Technician Certification by a CMS-approved state certification program or a national commercially available certification program required within 18 months of hire or position change

Compensation and Benefits

DaVita offers a competitive total rewards package, including a 401(k) match, healthcare coverage, and a broad range of other benefits. Compensation for the role will depend on a number of factors, including a candidate's qualifications, skills, competencies, and experience. For location-specific minimum wage details, visit DaVita.jobs/WageRates.