Patient Companion (3pm-11pm)

Patient Care Companion

The Patient Care Companion functions under the direction of the registered nurse responsible for the patient's care and following the patient's individualized needs. Nursing care is provided to the patient by the nursing staff.

Responsibilities:

• Communicate any change of assignment to the nursing office.
• Performs patient observation as assigned.
• Documents patient's behavior using the appropriate form/tool.
• Obtains appropriate information at the start of the shift regarding care from a registered nurse.
• Patient conversation guidelines should be adhered to.
• Monitors the patient's safety and maintains a safe environment as directed by the registered nurse; for ex: maintains safety position in the room when appropriate (i.e., back to the door) and always keeps patients in sight.
• Monitor patient for escalating behavior.
• Accompany the patient to the bathroom and tests as needed.
• Demonstrate proficiency with the use of bed alarms.
• Place the patient's clothing and belongings in the patient's closet, away from the patient.
• Demonstrates the skills and judgment necessary to provide direct care to patients under the direct supervision of licensed personnel.
• Observes and reports the patient's status and needs to the nurse.
• Remains on duty until relieved by oncoming coverage or the nurse discontinues coverage.
• Patient care companion may be assigned to watch patients at risk for suicide.

Qualifications:

Years of experience: Entry level

Language skills: Proficient in English, both verbally and written

Requirements:

• Demonstrate proper body mechanics in all functions.
• Understand individual roles/responsibilities in the event of a hospital code (e.g., Code Green, Code Red).
• Perform proper hand washing per CDC guidelines.
• Safeguard the privacy and security of patient information. The employee complies with policies and procedures relating to the hospital's privacy and security programs.
• Bring potential compliance issues to a manager, supervisor, director, or VP.
• Utilize chain of command to communicate any identified patient or staff safety risks.
• Report patient status to oncoming staff in a respectful, professional manner.
• Convey respect for values, preferences, and expressed needs of the patient and family.
• Communicate and collaborate effectively with patients and families to promote patient health and well-being.
• Interacts with sensitivity in delivering care/services to diverse populations as needed.
• Report to work in proper uniform per departmental standards and hospital policy.
• Maintain a professional, courteous attitude toward the patient, co-workers, and all departments daily.
• Must be able to work at least 1 weekend shift per week.
• Must be able to wear an N95 mask when assisting pts with respiratory-airborne infections.

VPNE is an equal opportunity at will employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of age, race, religion, color, disability, sex, sexual orientation or national origin.