By Camille Asamoah, MSN, RN-BC

2 MIN READ

Keeping our patients safe and satisfied is extremely important at Houston Methodist Hospital. Each department works as a team to ensure that their patients always remain safe while utilizing their top-notch ICARE values to enhance the patient’s satisfaction levels. As the unit administrative assistant (UAA), yours is likely one of the very first friendly faces a patient may see as they enter the unit. The UAA can act as a welcome committee representative for the whole team at the front desk. Patients may feel quite apprehensive as they roll by on the stretcher, but hearing the warm and welcoming hello from the UAA can go a long way in getting their stay started on the right foot.

Even though it can be very busy at the desk with the hustle and bustle of everyday unit tasks, you play a vital role in a patient’s safety and satisfaction. Most of the shift, you are the point of contact for the patient to get in touch with their RN, their PCA, and other members of their care team. You come to the rescue of the patient in various ways, such as promptly getting them the help they need when they set off a bed alarm, call for bathroom assistance, pain medications, and many other items. Occasionally, you do things such as helping a patient reach their belongings or even just giving them a glass of water and a smile. Never underestimate the part you play as the UAA. You are a vital team member, and patient satisfaction depends highly on what you do every day!