What does a Patient Care Specialist do?
Published 3 min read
A Patient Care Specialist provides support to patients and families by performing a variety of tasks. These tasks may include providing transportation, assisting with meals, bathing, and dressing, and providing emotional support.
Patient Care Specialist job duties include:
- Providing direct patient care
- Monitoring patients' vital signs
- Administering medications and treatments
- Collecting samples for lab testing
- Assisting with diagnostic procedures
- Documenting patient care services
- Educating patients and families about health conditions and treatment options
- Coordinating care with other members of the healthcare team
- Providing emotional support to patients and families
- Advocating for patients' rights and needs
Patient Care Specialist Job Requirements
A Patient Care Specialist typically needs at least a high school diploma, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, and must complete a brief period of on-the-job training. Some states have certification programs for Patient Care Specialists. Employers usually prefer to hire candidates with previous experience in a healthcare setting.
Patient Care Specialist Skills
- Patient care
- Observation
- Vital signs
- Charting
- Medication administration
- Injections
- Phlebotomy
- EKG
- Patient education
- Assisting with procedures
- Emotional support
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How to become a Patient Care Specialist
A Patient Care Specialist is a medical professional who provides care for patients in a hospital or other healthcare setting. They are responsible for ensuring that patients receive the necessary treatments and medications, and that they are comfortable and safe.
Becoming a Patient Care Specialist requires completing an accredited medical program. After completing medical school, you will need to complete a residency in order to gain experience in the field. Once you have completed your training, you will be able to take the certification exam to become a Board Certified Patient Care Specialist.
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