University Health Services is a dynamic, fast-paced college health practice committed to providing excellent health care to the students of the University of Notre Dame. The Patient Care Assistants (PCA) are valued members of the UHS team and work collaboratively with our providers, nurses, support staff, and administrators. PCAs work under the direct supervision of providers and nurses by assisting in the rendering of patient care services. The PCA supports all aspects of services provided by demonstrating respect and dignity of the patient, reflecting the unique character of the Notre Dame community, and sponsoring the teachings of the Catholic Church.

Direct Patient Care: Under the supervision of a provider, the PCA will perform all relevant patient care duties, including obtaining and documenting the following: vitals signs, patient chief complaint, current medications and allergies. They assist in examination and treatment of patients, and acquire highly specialized skills in this capacity. They perform diagnostic procedures, including: 12 lead EKGs, pulmonary function tests, hearing tests, Snellen vision screening, and CLIA-waived laboratory testing such as rapid strep test, rapid influenza test, rapid mono test, urine dip screening, swab cultures, pregnancy test, and blood glucose testing. They assist with therapeutic treatment of patients, including: crutch fitting and education, heat/cold therapy, ultrasound injections, and application of durable medical equipment, such as extremity splint fitting. They documents all care they provide in the electronic medical record. There is the potential for a trained and qualified PCA to perform nebulizer treatments, Elephant ear washes, phlebotomy, immunization injections, and suture/staple removal under the supervision of supervisor.

Indirect Patient Care: Prepares exam, treatment and procedure rooms for patient care provided by any member of the UHS team by cleaning/sanitizing the room and setting up appropriately for the next patient visit. Prepares for specialty gynecology/PAP exams by obtaining provider specific instruments, and setting up wet prep/KOH diagnostic procedures. Obtains provider-specific disposable and non-disposable items needed for suturing (each provider has unique needs). Prepares liquid nitrogen for wart removal, and cares of the safety of the procedure and supplies. Cleans and sterilizes surgical instruments; monitors, disposes, and replaces biohazard and sharp s, monitors use and inventory of linen, and maintains autoclave for sterilization of equipment. Inspects, cleans, and monitors equipment. Monitors supply inventory and restocks rooms and closets as needed. Relied upon to report deficiencies to supervisor. Labels specimens and transports to lab. Assists provider in obtaining patient consents.

Professional standards: Maintains medical records and other healthcare documents according to patient-privacy requirements to assure patient confidentiality. Participates in quality improvement activities consistent with other members of the clinical staff. Maintains basic CPR life-saving certification.

Duties as otherwise assigned.

University Health Services is open Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.