What does a Patient Transporter do?
Published 3 min read
A patient transporter is responsible for the safe transport of patients within a healthcare facility. They may also be responsible for moving equipment and supplies.
Patient Transporter job duties include:
- Transports patients to and from designated areas within the hospital using a wheelchair, stretcher, or by walking with the patient
- Assists patients in and out of vehicles
- Transports laboratory specimens and other items as needed
- Maintains equipment in a clean and safe manner
- Follows all infection control policies and procedures
- Completes required documentation in a timely and accurate manner
- Communicates with patients, families, and staff in a professional and courteous manner
- Participates in departmental quality improvement initiatives
- Attends mandatory departmental meetings and in-services
Patient Transporter Job Requirements
Patient Transporters are responsible for the safe transport of patients within a healthcare facility. They may also be responsible for moving equipment and supplies. Patient Transporters typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some Patient Transporters may need to be certified in CPR. Most Patient Transporters have on-the-job training.
Patient Transporter Skills
- Patient handling
- Gurney operation
- Wheelchair operation
- Basic life support
- Communication
- Organization
- Multi-tasking
- Patience
- Physical strength
- Endurance
- Attention to detail
Related: Top Patient Transporter Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a Patient Transporter
There are many reasons why someone might want to become a patient transporter. Maybe they have a passion for healthcare and want to help people in a hospital or clinic setting. Maybe they enjoy working with the elderly or disabled, and see this as a way to make a difference in their lives. Whatever the reason, there are a few things that anyone interested in becoming a patient transporter should keep in mind.
First and foremost, it is important to be physically fit. Patient transporters often have to lift and move patients who are unable to walk on their own, so it is important to be strong enough to do this safely. They also need to be able to stand for long periods of time, as well as walk long distances if necessary.
Second, it is important to be detail oriented and organized. Patient transporters need to keep track of where patients need to go and when, as well as making sure that they are comfortable and safe during transport.
Finally, it is important to have good people skills. Patient transporters deal directly with patients and their families, so it is important to be able to communicate effectively and empathize with them.
If you are interested in becoming a patient transporter, keeping these things in mind will help you succeed in the role.
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