Patient Observation Companion (Sitter)

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Under the supervision of an RN, provides close, continuous observation of patients who may be at risk of adverse events such as falls, wandering off, self-injury or harm to others. Assist in provision of a safe and clean environment, including but not limited to assisting in making the room free of objects that could cause harm to the patient or others. Must be able to work in situations with isolation precautions. Provide a safe environment of patients who need one on one supervision for safety precautions related to suicide precautions, behavioral concerns, line of sight, or mental health boarding room. Position self in the patient room to maintain constant visual observation of the patient, never leaves the patient alone or out of sight unless relieved by another designated staff member or instructed to do so by the nurse. The only exception is when a well documented risk exists to the staff member, in which the sitter will monitor the patient visually and through video from outside of the room. Remain awake, calm, alert, and professional, staying focused and in constant view of the patient at all time. Maintain privacy and security of all confidentiality and protected health information per HIPAA regulations. Communicate observed changes in behaviors/activity to the registered nurse or appropriate staff member. Establish and maintain courteous and effective relationships with patients, visitors, co-workers, and other members of the health care team; demonstrates sensitivity and awareness to the needs of patients, visitors, co-workers and responds promptly to verbal and/or written instructions. Communicate in a professional manner and demonstrates respect to patient, families, patient support network and other health care members. May perform assisted care, such as, but not limited to, setting up patient’s tray, reading to the patient, ambulating with a patient that ambulates independently, playing cards or a game with the patient. Must possess good interpersonal skills, patience and the ability to deal with confused, sometimes uncooperative patients, and/or patients experiencing depression and/or suicidal ideation. Maintain accurate and legible reliable documentation of patient behavior and activities. Verbally redirects the patient from engaging in risk behaviors. Attempt to de-escalate behaviors and summon staff if patient appears at risk to themselves or others. Attends all mandatory hospital in-services or trainings in accordance with any HR and hospital policies. Other duties as assigned by the RN or management leader.

Organizational Expectation:

Provides a positive and professional representation of the organization.
Promotes culture of safety for patients and employees through proper identification, reporting, documentation, and prevention.
Maintains hospital standards for a clean and quiet environment.
Maintains competency and knowledge of current standards of practice, trends, and developments in related scope of job role or practice.
Participates in ongoing quality improvement activities.
Maintains compliance with organization’s policies, as well as established practices, protocols, and procedures of the position, department, and applicable professional standards.
Complies with organizational and regulatory policies for handling confidential information.
Demonstrates excellent customer service through his/her attitude and actions, consistent with the standards contained in The Gritman Way.

Functional Demands:

Experience

• Previous work experience in a hospital setting preferred Demonstrates well developed communication, listening and customer service skills Demonstrates skills in problem solving and working effectively with people