Respite Assistant

Summary of Position:

The purpose of this position is to provide both clinical and clerical support services in a setting that delivers care to patients while they heal from a recent illness. A Respite Assistant assures the continuity of client care, providing an essential link for communication involving all team members. The Respite Assistant is also available to transport patients as needed for appointments and to serve as a driver for the pickup and delivery of supplies.

Essential Duties:

Duties include, but are not limited to:

• Collaborates with Program Manager/Nursing Staff throughout each shift to determine work assignments and priorities, as well as communicate the status of delegated task completion and outcome of patient data findings.
• Maintains timely, ongoing verbal and written communication to ensure good care of patients and the effective running of the Medical Respite Center.
• Provides safe and timely transportation for patients to off-site appointments as assigned by supervisor using the Respite Center’s vans including running errands as needed by supervisor.
• Treats each patient in a manner that preserves and supports patient confidentiality, patient rights, and patient dignity.
• Checks inventories weekly, reports needs, and stocks supplies.
• Assist any patient with personal hygiene as needed.
• Assists with copying and clerical tasks as needed.
• Phone coverage and triage of calls when necessary.
• Provides personal care and one-to-one support for patients needing end-of-life care.
• Assists with daily dorm cleaning and patient laundry.
• Coordinate mealtime needs including setting out food for patients to pick up and cleaning up after the meals are finished.
• Performs other duties as required.

Qualifications:

Basic Knowledge and Skills:

• Basic knowledge of medical terminology.
• Able to obtain and record vital signs accurately.
• Proficient in reading and writing skills in English.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, challenging environment.
• Demonstrated interest in working with an underserved population.
• High school diploma or GED required.
• Completion of a Certified Nursing Assistant and/or Medical Assistant program preferred
• Behavioral Health Technician certification may be considered in lieu of Certified Nursing Assistant or Medical Assistant certification
• Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification.
• Food Handlers Card.
• Bi-lingual- Spanish highly desired.
• Must be at least 21 years old.
• Valid Arizona driver’s license, active license for at least 3 years.

Physical and Mental Requirements:

• Position requires extended periods of sitting and standing.
• Position requires regular bending and reaching, including transfer of patients.
• Must be able to lift, carry, and push 20 pounds on a regular basis.
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds on an occasional basis.
• I have reviewed the physical requirements form.