Unit Secretary

Job Summary

The Unit Secretary provides secretarial, reception, and clerical support for the department in compliance with hospital, departmental, and regulatory standards. This role is responsible for communicating patient requests, transcribing physician orders, performing receptionist duties, assisting staff by observing or sitting with patients as necessary, and completing other clerical functions to support quality patient care.

Essential Job Functions

Community Cares Responsibilities

• Demonstrates commitment to the Vista Community Cares Program.
• Consistently uses AIDET communication techniques with patients, families, and coworkers.
• Follows Standards of Behavior including Attitude, Appearance, Commitment to Co-Workers, Communication, Customer Waiting, Privacy, Responsiveness, Safety Awareness, Service Recovery, and Sense of Ownership.

DepartmentRegulatory Compliance

• Adheres to all hospital and department policies and procedures.
• Participates in staff meetings, educational sessions, and performance reviews.
• Demonstrates support for Vista's strategic and operational initiatives.
• Maintains current knowledge through continuing education and required competencies.

Communication of Patient Requests

• Responds promptly to patient call systems.
• Communicates patient needs effectively to nursing and medical staff.
• Demonstrates an understanding of patient care needs across the lifespan.

Receptionist Duties

• Greets and assists patients, visitors, and staff courteously and professionally.
• Uses phone and paging systems to contact appropriate personnel.
• Directs inquiries to appropriate departments or staff members.

Transcription of Physician Orders

• Accurately transcribes and enters physician orders according to established procedures.
• Copies charts and materials as requested.

Clerical and Administrative Duties

• Updates admission, discharge, and transfer information in the computer system.
• Schedules internal and external patient procedures, including transportation arrangements.
• Maintains department inventory and orders supplies as needed.
• Generates reports and updates bulletin boards and computer messages.
• Performs timekeeping responsibilities if assigned.

Patient Observation Support

• Observes and ensures the safety of patients at risk of injury.
• Communicates behavioral changes and maintains accurate documentation.

Other Duties

• Performs all tasks in a safe and confidential manner.
• Completes assigned projects and adapts to changes in workflow and processes.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

• High School Diploma required.
• Bachelor's degree preferred.

Experience:

• Minimum two years of healthcare experience required.

Certifications:

• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification preferred.

SkillsAbilities:

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficient in multitasking and prioritizing workload.
• Excellent telephone etiquette.
• Familiarity with computers and office equipment.

Age of Patients Served:

• Demonstrates ability to work with Neonatal, Pediatric, Adult, and Geriatric populations.