Overnight Patient Observer

Position Summary

The role of the Patient Care Support (PCS) Companion (Patient Observer) is to provide constant safety observation of a patient identified to be at risk for causing unintentional or intentional injury to oneself or interfering with his/her/their care. Patients requiring a Care Companion (formerly called a sitter) could be confused, experiencing symptoms of drug/alcohol withdrawal, at a high risk for falling or at risk for elopement.

Schedule: Monday-Friday 11pm-7am

Responsibilities

The Patient Observer functions under the direction of VPNE in conjunction with the unit and clinical team overseeing the patient's stay. The Patient Observer/Companion is responsible for the care of the patient and in accordance with the individualized needs of the patient. Nursing care is provided to the patient by nursing staff.

• Performs patient observation as assigned
• Documents patients behavior using the appropriate form/tool
• Obtains appropriate information at the start of the shift in regard to care from Registered Nurse
• Patient conversation guidelines should be adhered to
• Monitors the safety of the patient and maintains safe environment as directed by the registered nurse for ex: maintains safety position in room when appropriate. (i.e., back to door) and keeps patients in sight at all times.
• Monitors patient for escalating behavior.
• Accompanies the patient to the bathroom and testing as needed.
• Demonstrates proficiency with the use of bed alarms.
• Patient's clothing and belongings will be placed 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 patient's status and needs to nurse.
• Remains on duty until relieved by oncoming coverage or Nurse discontinues coverage.

The Care Companion/Observer may be assigned to watch patients that are at risk for suicide.

A successful Care Companion/Patient Observer will have the following qualifications :

Years of Experience : Entry Level

Language Skills : Proficient in English both verbally and written

Experience : Previous service industry experience preferred along with the ability to perform:

• Safeguarding

• Safeguard the privacy and security of patient information. The team member complies will policies and procedures relating to VPNE and the hospital's privacy and security programs.
• Bring potential compliance issues to a manager, supervisor, director or VP.
• Patient and Family Centered Care
• Convey respect for values, preferences, and expressed needs of the patient and family.
• Communicate and collaborate effectively with patients, families to promote patient health and well-being.
• Culture
• Consider the individual needs of each person with whom they interact.
• Interact with sensitivity in the delivery of care/services of diverse populations as needed.
• Report to work in proper uniform as per departmental standards and/or hospital policy.
• All Clinical Patient Support team members will maintain a professional, courteous attitude toward patient, co-workers and all departments daily.
• Safety Awareness
• Foster a "Culture of Safety" through personal ownership and commitment to a safe environment.
• Demonstrate proper body mechanics in all functions.
• Understand individual role/responsibilities in the event of a hospital code. (e.g., Code Green, Code Red)
• Perform proper handwashing per CDC guidelines.
• Utilize appropriate communication to relay any identified patient or staff safety risks.
• Report patient status to incoming staff in respectful, professional manner.