Perioperative Patient Assistant (PPA)

Department Overview

The Outpatient Care Unit PPA performs routine work in the Perianesthesia extended recovery environment to include: decontamination and cleaning, cleaning of the physical surroundings and equipment, stocking and room setup, transporting patients and materials, performing point of care testing and assisting with patient care tasks in the Perianesthesia departments. Function as a member of the Outpatient Care Unit team, while under the direct supervision and direction of the registered nurse.

At OHSU, the PPA promotes a culture where we imagine, inspire, engage, and excel to ensure we meet every patient's needs. The PPA is expected to float within the Perioperative Division. 

Function/Duties of Position

Decontamination and Cleaning

• Cleans and decontaminates medical equipment - may make minor repairs or refer to repair person. 
• Test equipment and instruments for proper operation.
• Cleans hospital equipment such as infusion pumps, suction machines and heating and cooling units.
• Cleans and sanitizes all surfaces in patient rooms for same day discharges.
• Collects and empties biohazard and linen

Patient Care Support - Assists with the following patient care tasks:

• Nutrition and Hydration
• Dressing and Undressing
• Elimination and Toileting
• Clipping hair and assisting with HCG bath in preparation for surgical procedure
• Patient mobilization – use of crutches, walkers or wheelchairs (must have SPM training)
• Measuring and recording: Vital signs, pulse oximetry, urinary output (both voided and from drainage systems), pain level (using facility approved pain scale), patient weight
• Care as directed by the health care team 
• Prioritize care and responsibilities and seek consultation when indicated.

Equipment and Room Set Up and Turnover - Assists with set up of:

• Patient Rooms 
• Equipment Rooms

Other Duties as Assigned

Required Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent AND one year work experience in any field. 
• Ability to communicate well with others. 
• Ability to safely lift and transfer patients, equipment, supplies. 
• Must be responsible and properly trained in the transportation of bio-hazardous items within 90 days of hire. 
• A PPA candidate may be required to have a valid BLS certification at time of hire as indicated on the position description.

Preferred Qualifications

• Completion of (or enrollment in) Certified Nurse Assistant; 
• One year experience in a hospital setting or peri anesthesia department/short stay.
• Experience with EPIC program

Additional Details

Requires prioritization of multiple projects, activities, and assignments. May be exposed to excessive auditory and visual stimulation. May be exposed to body fluids, tissue, and infectious processes. Subject to computer work for several hours, as needed. Able to utilize all patient care equipment with work area.

Benefits:

• Healthcare Options - Covered 100% for full-time employees and 88% for dependents, and $25K of term life insurance provided at no cost to the employee
• Two separate above market pension plans to choose from
• Vacation- up to 200 hours per year depending on length of service
• Sick Leave- up to 96 hours per year
• 8 paid holidays per year
• Substantial Tri-met and C-Tran discounts
• Additional Programs including Tuition Reimbursement and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Why apply to OHSU?