Often referred to as a Ward Clerk, a Unit Clerk undertakes the administrative and support tasks necessary to keep a healthcare unit running smoothly. Without a Unit Clerk, the unit could quickly become disorganized and chaotic. A Unit Clerk is responsible for maintaining patient records, handling finances, and coordinating activities. Unit Clerk job duties include everything from answering phones and directing calls to filing documents and assisting with admissions and discharge procedures. Some Unit Clerks are employed in general medical and surgical wards, where they provide support to the nursing staff. Others work in specialized units such as intensive care, labor and delivery, emergency, or pediatrics, where they thoroughly understand the procedures and protocols specific to that unit.