Patient Care Technician I - T10 Surgical Progressive Care

Patient Care Technician I
T10 Surgical Progressive Care Unit
1.0 full-time, day/evening shifts with rotation & every other weekend/holiday rotation (40 hours/week)
Shifts:  7:00 AM to 3:00 PM and 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Union position:  AFSCME
Posted:  3/6/2026

Are you looking for a patient care support opportunity to start and grow a rewarding healthcare career?  UPMC Altoona is looking for a Patient Care Technician I to help support T10 Surgical Progressive!

As a Patient Care Technician with UPMC, you'll have a meaningful impact in the care of our patients every day.  Direct patient care experience is preferred but not required.  We offer training for qualified entry level candidates to learn and demonstrate the skills needed to be a successful Patient Care Technician.  Must have year-round availability to work full-time hours.

  
Responsibilities:

 Patient Care & Support

• Provide direct patient care as directed by the RN (bathing, feeding, transporting, toileting, ambulating).
• Offer companionship and supervision to patients as needed.
• Deliver patient nourishment, refill water pitchers, and distribute mail.
• Assist with patient restraints as per protocol and offer diversion activities to reduce their use.
• Perform routine tests like blood glucose monitoring, vital signs, weights, and I&Os.

Communication & Teamwork

• Establish clear communication with team members and report patient status changes to the RN.
• Respond promptly to emergent situations within the nursing assistant role.
• Work collaboratively to support department activities (call lights, meal trays, patient transport).
• Seek guidance on planning and prioritizing tasks when needed.
• Receive feedback constructively and participate in self-reviews.

Safety & Environment

• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized environment to promote patient recovery (safety checks, cleaning, organizing patient rooms).
• Report equipment malfunctions and ensure they are addressed.
• Ensure patient rooms and hallways are clear of equipment and hazards.
• Follow safety protocols, including standard precautions and blood-borne pathogen exposure procedures.

Personal Growth & Professionalism

• Continuously work to improve your skills and performance.
• Take responsibility for your assignments and approach challenges with a positive attitude.
• Communicate learning needs to the unit director.
• Maintain respectful, professional relationships with patients and coworkers.

Administrative Support

• Assist with ordering, distributing, and stocking supplies for patient care.
• Help set up patient care equipment and manage supplies within the scope of your role.
• Suggest and support department changes to improve overall function.

Experience Required:

• None
• Direct patient care experience is preferred but not required.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• If no previous hospital or pre-hospital training, successful completion of UPMC patient care technician class OR successful completion of the first year of clinical work in a nursing program.
• Successful completion of basic information system training.
• Microcomputer experience preferred.
• Ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing.
• Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or Paramedic or currently enrolled in an EMT or Paramedic program preferred.
• Access to medications is limited to the distribution of the medication to the nurse.
   

Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:

• CPR required based on AHA standards that include both a didactic and skills demonstration component within 30 days of hire
• Basic Life Support (BLS) OR Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
• Act 34

UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran