Patient Companion | PRN | MedSurg

Job Description

Job Description

Job Description Summary

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.

Entity

Medical University Hospital Authority (MUHA)

Worker Type

Employee

Worker Sub-Type​

PRN

Cost Center

CC001508 LAN - MedSurg 6th Floor (LMC)

Pay Rate Type

Hourly

Pay Grade

Health-17

Scheduled Weekly Hours

12

Work Shift

Rotating (United States of America)

Job Description

PRN Status Clause:

PRN / “as-needed” means you are not guaranteed a fixed schedule or hours. You work when they have needs in the schedule. You must be available to work at least 12 hours every two weeks (bi-weekly minimum), as specified in your PRN Commitment Agreement. Your actual hours will depend on department needs, not a set schedule. You may be asked to pick up extra shifts to cover gaps (like call-outs or shortages).  Your total hours can go up or down—some weeks you might work more, some less.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

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.

• Assist 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.

Additional Job Description

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.

If you like working with energetic enthusiastic individuals, you will enjoy your career with us!

The Medical University of South Carolina is an Equal Opportunity Employer. MUSC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, age, sex, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, protected veteran status, family or parental status, or any other status protected by state laws and/or federal regulations. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment based upon applicable qualifications, merit and business need.

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