Patient Companion | PRN | MedSurg

Patient Companion | PRN | MedSurg

Under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN), the Patient Companion performs a variety of patient care, patient safety monitoring, and clerical support duties to ensure the delivery of safe, quality, patient-centered care. This position serves as a Patient Safety Companion when assigned, providing continuous observation of patients who require close monitoring to maintain safety. When patient observation is not required, the employee functions as a Patient Care Technician (PCT) and/or Unit Secretary, supporting direct patient care activities and unit operations. The employee demonstrates professional conduct, ethical behavior, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to maintaining a safe and therapeutic environment for patients, families, visitors, and staff.

Patient Companion Responsibilities:

• Provides continuous one-to-one observation of assigned patients to ensure safety at all times.
• Maintains constant visual contact with the patient and never leaves the patient unattended unless relieved by authorized staff.
• Observes and reports changes in patient condition, behavior, or safety risks immediately to the Registered Nurse.
• Assists patients with activities of daily living (ADLs), including toileting, feeding, ambulation, and repositioning as directed.
• Promotes patient comfort while maintaining a safe environment.
• Intervenes appropriately to prevent falls, self-harm, removal of medical devices, or other unsafe behaviors according to hospital policy.
• Documents observations and activities as required.
• Communicates effectively with nursing staff regarding patient status and concerns.
• Maintains patient dignity, confidentiality, and privacy at all times.

Patient Care Technician (PCT) Responsibilities:

• Provides direct patient care under the supervision of a Registered Nurse.
• Obtains and records vital signs, height, weight, intake and output, and other patient data as assigned.
• Assists patients with bathing, grooming, dressing, feeding, mobility, and other personal care needs.
• Assists with patient transport, transfers, and ambulation using proper body mechanics and safety techniques.
• Collects specimens and performs delegated clinical tasks within scope of training and competency.
• Maintains patient rooms, equipment, and supplies in a clean, organized, and safe condition.
• Recognizes and reports changes in patient condition promptly to the Registered Nurse.
• Assists with admission, discharge, and transfer procedures.
• Supports a decentralized, patient-centered approach to care and contributes to achieving desired patient outcomes.

Unit Secretary Responsibilities:

• Processes physician orders accurately and timely according to hospital procedures.
• Maintains patient charts, forms, and records in an organized and compliant manner.
• Ensures patient charts contain required forms and documentation.
• Answers telephones, relays messages, and communicates effectively with physicians, staff, patients, and visitors.
• Performs clerical and data entry functions related to patient care and unit operations.
• Orders and maintains adequate inventory of unit supplies through materials management.
• Assists with scheduling, record maintenance, and other administrative functions as assigned.
• Supports efficient workflow at the nurses' station and throughout the unit.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Cross-trains and functions in multiple roles based on departmental needs and staffing requirements.
• Participates in orientation, ongoing education, competency validation, and performance improvement activities.
• Adheres to hospital policies, procedures, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Maintains patient confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA and organizational standards.
• Demonstrates ethical, professional, and appropriate behavior at all times.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Education:

• High School Diploma or GED required.

Experience:

• Previous healthcare experience preferred.
• Experience as a Patient Care Technician, Nursing Assistant, Patient Sitter, Unit Secretary, or related healthcare role preferred.

Certifications/Licensure:

• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification is required.

Physical Requirements:

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, lifting, pushing, and pulling.
• Ability to lift and move patients and equipment in accordance with hospital safety guidelines.
• Ability to remain alert and attentive during extended periods of patient observation.
• Ability to perform duties requiring manual dexterity, visual acuity, and effective verbal communication.

Working Conditions:

• Works in patient care areas with potential exposure to infectious diseases, bodily fluids, and other healthcare-related hazards.
• May be required to work weekends, holidays, evenings, nights, and on-call shifts as needed.
• Must comply with all infection prevention and safety protocols.

Performance Expectations:

• Maintains patient safety as the highest priority.
• Demonstrates compassion, respect, and excellent customer service.
• Supports teamwork and collaboration across disciplines.
• Consistently follows hospital policies, procedures, and standards of care.
• Contributes to positive patient experiences and quality outcomes.

Medical University of South Carolina