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Description
Penn Medicine is dedicated to our tripartite mission of providing the highest level of care to patients, conducting innovative research, and educating future leaders in the field of medicine. Working for this leading academic medical center means collaboration with top clinical, technical, and business professionals across all disciplines.
Today at Penn Medicine, someone will make a breakthrough. Someone will heal a heart, deliver hopeful news, and give comfort and reassurance. Our employees shape our future each day. Are you living your life's work?
Summary
- The Behavioral Safety Assistant (BSA) II is a key member of the interdisciplinary team responsible for the continuous observation of assigned patients. This role involves either direct bedside observation or remote video/virtual surveillance. The BSA II is primarily assigned to patients who are at risk of harming themselves or others, or those with impaired judgment, or those who need continuous observation and engagement due to other safety concerns. The role reports through the behavioral health department and works closely with the nursing department across the entire hospital, including the Emergency Department, inpatient nursing units, and other areas.
Responsibilities
- Observations and 1:1 Assignments: Provide 1:1 observation of assigned patients based on behavioral health or safety needs. Maintain direct line-of-sight at all times, ensuring the patient is never left unattended unless directed by the RN. Position yourself to respond quickly to patient needs and safety.
- Continual Rounding: Conduct regular rounds for patients with behavioral health needs, document observations timely, and move between patients efficiently.
- Continuous Video Monitoring: Use video/audio monitoring software effectively for remote surveillance of multiple patients.
- Assistance with Mobility and ADLs: Assist patients with ambulation, activities of daily living, hygiene, and toileting.
- Meal Assistance: Help set up meal trays and feed patients, excluding those with swallowing precautions.
- Patient Transfers: Perform safe transfers using proper ergonomics and equipment.
- Notification of Changes: Report notable behavioral or health changes promptly to the RN.
- Safety Measures: Implement safety protocols to prevent falls, ligature incidents, self-harm, aggression, or wandering. Use restraints and PPE appropriately.
- Patient Communication: Interact to reduce agitation or confusion, using personalized interventions as instructed.
- Documentation: Record behaviors and interventions in EMR or paper forms.
- Emergency Response: Report safety concerns and activate emergency procedures when needed.
- Communication: Participate in shift hand-offs and share pertinent information.
- Education and Support: Educate patients and visitors about the observation program and your role.
Credentials
- Basic Cardiac Life Support (Required)
- CPR Certification, training provided if not held at hire.
Education or Equivalent Experience
- H.S. Diploma/GED (Required)
- 1+ years experience in a patient care environment preferred, with effective communication skills and basic computer knowledge.
We believe that the best care for our patients starts with the best care for our employees. Our benefits include comprehensive compensation, tuition assistance, and more. Penn Medicine is an Equal Opportunity employer and considers all candidates without discrimination.