Perioperative Patient Assistant (PPA)

Department Overview

Function as a member of the Perianesthesia team, while under the direct supervision and direction of the registered perianesthesia nurse.

 

The Perianesthesia PPA performs routine work in the perianesthesia 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.

 

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

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

• Perianesthesia Bays
• Block Bays
• ECT Beds
• Other areas as needed

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.

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
• May make minor repairs or refers to repair person
• Cleans and sanitizes all surfaces and floors in clinical and nonclinical areas
• Collects and empties trash and linen

Required Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent AND One year work experience in any field. 

   

• Valid BLS certification at time of hire as indicated on the position description.

• 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. 

Preferred Qualifications

• Completion of (or enrollment in) the Sterile Processing Course; OR Certified Nurse Assistant; OR 1 year job experience in a hospital, clinic, or medical laboratory with exposure to decontamination and cleaning processes; OR certified registered central service technician (CRCST).

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.

All are welcome

Oregon Health & Science University values a diverse and culturally competent workforce. We are proud of our commitment to being an equal opportunity, affirmative action organization that does not discriminate against applicants on the basis of any protected class status, including disability status and protected veteran status. Individuals with diverse backgrounds and those who promote diversity and a culture of inclusion are encouraged to apply. To request reasonable accommodation contact the Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Department at 503-494-5148 or aaeo@ohsu.edu.