Virtual Safety Companion (VSC) - Med-Surg Pediatric Unit - St. Rita's Medical Center

Primary Function/General Purpose of Position

The Virtual Safety Companion remotely observes and interacts with assigned patients through in-room cameras with verbal interventions and alerts to get bedside staff support for the patient as necessary. This position works closely with the hospital bedside clinical staff, Virtual Safety Coordinator and the Operations Manager to escalate any patient conditions as necessary and provides hand-off information upon completion of shift assignment.

Essential Job Functions

• Provides continuous observation of assigned patients through a one-way camera and two-way audio device and immediately contacts the appropriate bedside clinical staff if the patient requires assistance
• Promotes patient safety by reporting unsafe situations or concerns to direct caregivers via phone calls and Epic documentation
• Participates in hand-off of information/behavior about assigned patients at the beginning and upon completion of the shift assignment
• Seeks help as soon as possible when patient appears to pose a threat to self or others
• Participates in collaborative identification and reporting of patient safety issues and assures patient environment safety
• Provides patients with explanations as needed, but does not counsel or provide opinions
• Demonstrates efficiency in following documented workflows
• Provides high level customer service to all patients, patient's family, visitors, bedside provider and employees
• Provides accurate, precise, timely documentation in Epic and patient observation software when applicable for patient care
• Uses professional communication, verbal and written, at all times
• Participates in patient escalation discussions
• Promotes safety and protects the dignity of the observed patient.
• Communicates effectively with patients using a microphone and headset
• Demonstrates efficiency in multi-tasking
• Demonstrates safe work practice and attitude, follows safety rules, works to prevent unsafe conditions and behaviors, and participates in organizational and department safety programs and huddles
• Performs other duties, when there is a low volume of observable patients, under the direction of a nurse

This document is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, or working conditions associated with the job. Employees may be required to perform other job-related duties as required by their supervisor, subject to reasonable accommodation.

Licensing/Certification

BLS Basic Life Support (required within 3 months of hire)

Education

None

Work Experience

Patient care experience (preferred)

Previous hospital environment experience (preferred)

Training

None

Language

None

Skills

Communicate with hospital staff and respond quickly to patient behavioral changes

Monitoring multiple patients at one time and remain alert at all times while on duty

Function in stressful and emergency situations

Record & communicate patient status or behaviors

Basic data analysis

Ability to use discretion and courtesy when working with patients, visitors, and staff

Basic computer operation skills and ability to learn new skills

Microsoft windows

Multitasking

Prioritize multiple situations

Attention to detail

Critical thinking

Active listening

Follow procedures in emergency and high stress situations

Take direction from staff and clinical/operational leadership

Communication with family members

Teamwork

Conflict resolution

Relationship building

HIPPA

Medical Terminology

As a Mercy Health associate, you're part of a Mission that matters. We support your well-being—personally and professionally. Our benefits are built to grow with you and meet your unique needs, every step of the way.

What we offer

• Competitive pay, incentives, referral bonuses and 403(b) with employer contributions (when eligible)
• Medical, dental, vision, prescription coverage, HSA/FSA options, life insurance, mental health resources and discounts
• Paid time off, parental and FMLA leave, short- and long-term disability, backup care for children and elders
• Tuition assistance, professional development and continuing education support

Benefits may vary based on the market and employment status.

All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, genetic information, or protected veteran status, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. If you'd like to view a copy of the affirmative action plan or policy statement for Mercy Health – Youngstown, Ohio or Bon Secours – Franklin, Virginia; Petersburg, Virginia; and Emporia, Virginia, which are Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employers, please email View email address on carejobs.now . If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part of the employment selection process, please contact The Talent Acquisition Team at View email address on carejobs.now