What are the responsibilities and job description for the Telemetry Technician position at Jackson Health?
Summary
Telemetry Technician provides advanced ECG monitoring while concentrating on observation of patient status through assessment of ECG strips and arrhythmia interpretation. the Technician recognizes problems through continuous EKG monitoring with accurate interpretation of cardiac rhythms and dysrhythmias and interval measurements; identifies probable causes, and seeks solutions to correct the problem according to established standards. The incumbent also appropriately identifies, responds and communicates to direct patient care givers any potentially life-threatening rhythm changes, initiates codes, records rhythms during code and appropriately responds to all monitor alarms.
Responsibilities
Monitors patient cardiac rhythms via telemetry. Immediately relays pertinent changes in monitored patient's rhythms to nursing staff and direct providers. Maintains patient monitoring log and documents rhythms in the medical record. Labels telemetry strips with rhythm, apical rate, ventricular rate, QT interval and PR interval. Mounts and or uploads patient's monitored strips every shift and PRN; as appropriate based on assigned unit. Maintains alarm setting on monitoring unit at all times. Answers telephone/intercom in a polite manner and communicates information clearly and effectively to the appropriate staff. Interacts professionally with patient/family and provides explanations and verbal reassurance as necessary. Manage and operates equipment safely and correctly. Maintains proper stock levels of supplies and/or forms as needed. Inputs patient information into the monitoring equipment immediately upon patient's arrival to the nursing unit. Deletes patient's information from the monitoring equipment upon patients' discharge from units. Assists in the orientation of new staff as assigned. Maintains a good working relationship both within the department and with other departments. May perform tasks associated with patient observation as assigned, which includes but not limited to: perform continuous monitoring of the safety patients via a monitor to ensure patients are in bed and or kept safe; notify the nurse or rounding observer of an imminent at risk behavior; obtain handoff report from previous shift observer; obtain each patient's PCT and nurse phone numbers at the beginning of the shift; monitor patient and verbally redirect patient to modify at risk behaviors via monitor communication; notify rounder and nursing staff as applicable; complete log when discontinuing video monitoring. Demonstrates behaviors of service excellence and CARE values (Compassion, Accountability, Respect and Expertise). Performs all other related job duties as assigned.
Credential
Must have one of the following: EKG certification, Certified Patient Care Technician, Certified Nursing Assistant, Certified Medical Assistant or Foreign Medical Graduate. Telemetry Certification is strongly preferred. American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS) and any additional applicable life support certification for Healthcare Providers is required upon hire with at least 6 months validity and maintenance at JHS for the duration of employment.
Education
High school diploma or equivalent is required. Selected candidates must complete Level 1 and Level 2 EKG classes and pass an EKG Interpretation and Cardiac Arrhythmia Recognition Examination within the first three months of employment in the classification.
Experience
Generally requires 1 to 3 years of related experience (strongly preferred). Experience in identifying cardiac arrhythmias is strongly preferred.
