Patient Care Associate

Patient Care Associate

Ocean Springs Hospital | Part‑Time | 7a‑7p
3109 Bienville Blvd
Ocean Springs, Mississippi, 39564

The Patient Care Associate delivers basic nursing care to hospitalized patients in accordance with the care plan established by a Registered Nurse or Licensed Practical Nurse. The associate follows Singing River Health System policies, CDC infection control guidelines, and accreditation requirements.

• Assist patients with personal and restorative care activities (e.g., bathing, grooming, feeding).
• Support nursing staff during shift care management and shift hand‑off procedures.
• Monitor patient status, report changes, and facilitate communication between the patient, family, and healthcare team.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and infection‑controlled environment for patients and staff.
• Adhere to all safety, regulatory, and quality standards dictated by the organization.

• High School Diploma or equivalent required; completion of a Nurse Assistant/Aide program preferred.
• Current Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification recognized by the State of Mississippi required upon hire for the Skilled Nursing Facility unit.
• BCLS (Basic Cardiac Life Support) certification upon hire and periodic renewal required.
• De‑escalation training completed within 90 days of orientation and ongoing competency demonstrated.
• Equivalency of related work experience or completion of a Nurse Aide program required.
• Proficiency in computer use (keyboard, MS Outlook, Word) and phone technology.
• Strong written, verbal, and listening communication skills; emotional stability and professional etiquette required.

Registered Nurse or LPN responsible for patient care management during a shift.

Modest active: frequent movement, moderate lifting/carrying, use of repetitive hand/wrist motions. Exposure to body fluids and potential infectious hazards. Ability to maintain activity for extended periods without undue fatigue.

Excellent decision‑making, assessment, prioritization, and communication under high stress. Ability to work under pressure, handle emergencies, and coordinate care teams.

Strong customer service orientation, professional etiquette, clinical judgment, and the application of proven clinical skills to a patient population of all ages.