What are the responsibilities and job description for the DISPATCHER position at South Shore Health?
Job Description Summary
Under the direction of the Manager of Patient Transport and Visitor Services, the Dispatcher will function within the guidelines of South Shore Health’s policies and procedures. The Dispatcher receives and assigns dispatch requests from departments to the Patient Transporters and the appropriate documentation of such services. He/she also provides scheduling backup in absence of the Manager/Supervisor. The Dispatcher provides prompt, courteous, customer service to patients, visitors and co-workers. He/She works in collaboration with other team members and ancillary departments by providing excellent service. Responsible for safe transport of patients, specimens, and equipment. He/she is responsible for the safe transport of patients via wheelchair or stretcher. This may also include the transport of patients with oxygen, IV poles and other equipment. The Dispatcher is responsible for maintaining a clean environment in the Transport office.
Job Description
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
1 - Answers the phone and dispatches services prioritizing needs of the nursing department.
a - Answers calls within three rings.
b - Monitors accuracy of calls received through TCC order entry.
c - Logs calls received by phone or through Epic immediately.
d - Accurately informs departments of patient departure and return to unit.
e - Informs departments of patient departure as soon as possible.
f - Provides back up coverage for sick call, etc., scheduling in the absence of supervisor and manager.
g - Ensures all transporters on duty have assignments; i.e., equipment maintenance.
h - Reports issues, problems, etc., to Supervisor/Manager as needed.
2 - Attends mandatory in–services as required by South Shore Health & Educational Corporation. CPR certified.
a - Bi-annually attendance at in–service mandatory; i.e., CPR.
3 - Clarifies instructions and asks guidance when necessary
a - Transporters ask for clarification on each call as needed.
4 - Procures needed supplies and equipment as needed in a cost–effective manner.
a - Supplies necessary for the running of the department are procured daily and weekly as necessary.
5 - Enters and tracks appropriate information in the computer.
6 - Transports patients in a safe, timely manner.
a - Picks up patients and transports to designated area within 18–20 minutes as noted in log.
7 - Is courteous and professional at all times.
a - Transporters will maintain a professional, courteous attitude toward patient, co–workers and all departments daily.
8 - Transports lab specimens from all areas (lab, ambulatory, etc.).
a - Lab specimens will be transported with universal precautions carried out.
9 - In time of emergency, brings code cart.
a - Immediately upon request, code cart is brought to designated unit.
10 - Discharges patients following proper procedure.
a - Upon notification of discharge, patient is safely brought to main entrance.
11 - Transports x–ray reports, medical records and all other equipment necessary, O2, etc.
a – Safety handles gas cylinders and safely applies patient oxygen administration devices under direct Nursing supervision.
12 - Monitors the safety of the behavior management patient.
a - Checks for Blue For Behavior bar on Patient Room placard.
JOB REQUIREMENTS
Minimum Education - Preferred
High school education or equivalent preferred. You must be 16 years or older at the time of filing an application.
Minimum Work Experience
Previous hospital experience preferred but not required
Required additional Knowledge and Abilities
Ability to communicate verbally and in writing in the English language.
Ability to move or lift patients and equipment.
This position requires the candidate to be on their feet most of the shift as required.
Ability to provide a high-level of customer service to patients and staff in a professional, service-oriented, respectful manner using skills in active listening and problem solving.
Ability to remain calm in stressful situations.
Ability to properly delegate tasks based on priority.
