Job Summary:
The Monitor Technician performs under the direct supervision of the PCC and is a vital role in supporting quality patient care. This role involves participation in the implementation phase of the nursing process, with a primary focus on rhythm strip interpretation and recognizing changes in rhythms. Additionally, this role performs cardiac monitoring by continuously observing the central cardiac monitor screen, located in the Monitor Room, for proper waveform on each telemetry patient, preventing loss of signal and ensuring accurate capture of potential cardiac events. The Monitor Technician is responsible for documenting and reporting rhythms following the chain of command, reporting equipment problems, maintaining supplies and workstation as necessary.
Specialized training and competency validation through the education department are required for this task. Additionally, the Monitor Technician must be able to perform acute care technician duties if PCC needs dictate.
Performance Expectations:
- Shift Transition Report: Begin and end each shift by obtaining/providing a comprehensive report from the outgoing/oncoming staff to ensure continuity of care.
- Monitor Inventory: Conduct a thorough inventory of available monitors to ensure all necessary equipment is present and operational.
- Rhythm Strip Printing: Print rhythm strips at designated times (7, 11, and 3) following the specified procedure as well as a strip at admit and discharge.
- Rhythm Strip Review and Signing: Read and interpret each printed strip, promptly signing as necessary, ensuring the patient’s name and MRN is on each strip. Separate strips for individual nurses to sign; ensure each nurse receives their strips in a timely manner.
- Rhythm Strip Interpretation: Be proficient in EKG strip interpretation and recognizing lethal arrhythmias after completing the Telemetry Course. Notify staff of lethal/irregular rhythms and changes in a timely manner.
- Monitor Maintenance: When a patient is discharged, clean and prepare the monitor for reuse. Place cleaned monitors into holder on wall.
- Battery Replacement: Be proactive in monitoring monitor battery levels. You, the nurse, or ACTs can change batteries as needed to ensure uninterrupted monitoring.
- Patient Status Notification: If a patient is taken off telemetry monitoring, promptly notify the appropriate staff in the following order: ACT, Nurse, and Charge Nurse. In cases where no immediate response is obtained, escalate the issue to the House Supervisor.
- Tele Log Maintenance: Maintain an accurate and up-to-date telemetry log throughout the day, documenting patient status changes and updates as necessary.
- Emergency Operations: In the event of emergency operations or events, report to work as required and be prepared to support the healthcare team as needed to ensure patient safety and care continuity.
- Effective Communication: Answer phone calls promptly. Notify the appropriate staff members of patient needs. If unable to reach the ACT or Nurse for assistance, escalate the issue by notifying the Charge Nurse and, if necessary, the House Supervisor.
- Clinical Competencies: Maintains and stays current in skills, ongoing competencies, equipment and certifications to include telemetry monitoring and Basic Life Support certification.
- Patient-Centered Care: Consistently plan patient care in conjunction with other disciplines to meet the goals and individualized needs of the patients.
- Electronic Medical Records (EMR): Be competent in accessing and utilizing the EMR for the provision of patient care.
- Age-Specific Care: Utilize knowledge of age-specific needs of patients, from pediatric to adult, in the performance of duties and responsibilities.
- Safety and Emergency Preparedness: Safely and appropriately fulfill job-specific responsibilities related to safety, security, emergency preparedness, control of hazardous materials, life safety, and utility systems as outlined in the hospital’s environment of care plan.
- Clinical Skills: Demonstrate proficiency in patient interventions such as obtaining vital signs, reporting abnormal values, foley care, and assisting patients with activities of daily living.
- Equipment Proficiency: Safely utilize equipment including, but not limited to: Central Monitor System, Portable Telemetry Monitors, Vital Machines, and Patient Beds.
- Behaviors and interactions demonstrate a positive attitude, personal initiative, and motivation to achieve the department's goals.
- Champions the development and growth of safety culture.
- Participates in all competencies planned for the job role before deadlines.
- Complies with the departmental and facility policy.
- Follows the policies in the Employee Handbook.
- Uses “We Care” philosophy in daily communication.
- Required appropriate use of the department’s communication app.
- The spreading of rumors and gossip creates unnecessary turmoil, weakens working relationships, and is contrary to the spirit of the hospital and is prohibited.
- This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive; the employee will also perform other reasonably related job duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
Education/Skills:
Diploma/GED required. Proficient in Microsoft Excel/Word and Outlook.
Work Experience:
Prior Nurse Aide, Acute Care Tech or Monitor Tech experience, preferred.
Certification/Licensure-DUE UPON HIRE
Additional Certification/Licensure - Obtained based on required timeframe below
Within 30 Days of Employment
Required
- Rhythm Strip Interpretation for Techs
Within 30 Days of Employment
Required
Mental Demands: Ability to critically think and perform as a team member, cooperate with others, follow directions precisely, Demonstrates initiative, and functions under stress.