A PCA (Patient Care Associate/Assistant) is a licensed healthcare professional who works with patients who require extended or specialized care. They provide various aspects of patient care under the direct supervision of a registered nurse (RN) or doctor. PCAs work in a variety of settings including hospitals, medical clinics/offices, nursing care facilities, homes, assisted living facilities, and rehabilitation centers. Some of the duties that are commonly assigned to PCAs include:

• Providing patient support and services in a hospital, such as helping patients with daily activities while they are recuperating from injury, illness, or a procedure.
• Caring for people in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities.
• Preparing rooms, sterilizing equipment, and escorting patients to exam rooms and surgery.
• Aiding other medical personnel as they provide treatment, interacting with patients, and listening to their needs.
• Cleaning hospital rooms, transporting patients to diagnostic tests, and helping with grooming and eating.
• Communicating with patients often so that they can report their needs or issues to nurses or physicians who adjust treatments or arrangements as necessary/Hourly_Rate).

PCAs must have strong communication skills, empathy, and patience since they deal directly with patients. They must also have the physical ability to perform manual tasks such as lifting patients, pushing wheelchairs, or moving equipment. The ability to speak additional languages is frequently an asset and can set them ahead of other job seekers.