Patient Sitter - Constant Observer

Tenet Healthcare; Goodyear (AZ); On-site; USD 19,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

Tenet Healthcare in Goodyear, AZ is seeking a dedicated constant observer to provide continuous monitoring of assigned patients under RN supervision. The role focuses on patient safety, privacy, and clear communication with the care team.

You will maintain observation, document on flow sheets, follow procedures to prevent harm, and report any changes to the nurse. High school diploma and BLS certification required; one year of related experience preferred.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• One year of experience in patient care or related role.
• Current American Heart Association BLS certification.

Responsibilities

• Keep patient within view at all times.
• Never leaves patient unattended.
• Use call light/intercom to summon staff when needed.
• Accompany patient during transport and obtain nurse approval to leave.
• Document observations on flow sheet as instructed.

Skills

Patient observation

Communication

Safety awareness

Customer service

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Job Summary

Working under the supervision of the registered nurse, the constant observer maintains constant direct observation and visualization of identified patient(s).

Patient Observation:

• Keeps patient within view at all times.
• Never leaves patient unattended.
• Uses the call light/intercom system to summon staff for assistance or needed equipment/supplies.
• Accompanies and stays with patient when transported off the unit for any diagnostic tests or procedures. Asks nurse before accompanying patient
• Remains in patient room at all times and does not leave without RN approval and/or relief.
• Documents observations on flow sheet as instructed and indicated.

Patient Safety:

• Keeps patient room door open/partially open at all times.
• Keeps bathroom door open at all times.
• Removes sharp/dangerous items out of room.
• Assists nurse to screen all items brought in by visitors.
• Knows patient's ordered activity level
• Avoids wearing items around neck (ID badge, stethoscopes, necklace, etc.)

Patient Privacy:

• Maintains confidentiality of all patient information.
• Refrains from discussing patient information with anyone other than nurse or physician.
• Respects the patient's right to dignity while providing care, with concern for safety as a priority.

Communication:

• Listens and acknowledges patient's complaints and feelings.
• Conveys attitudes of compassion, empathy, and understanding.
• Does not discuss any information related to patient's medical condition or plan of care.
• Seeks guidance and direction when unsure.
• Informs nurse immediately if patient expresses desire to harm self/others or wants to leave the hospital.
• Provides report to relief patient sitter and to nurse prior to leaving at shift end.

Conduct:

• Provides only constant observation.
• Does not make personal phone calls, eat food in the room, or sleep.
• Allows patient control of television (channel, volume).
• Does not use any items or personal electronics (iPod, iPad, game boy, etc.) or anything that can distract attention from patient.
• Does not leave patient(s) until relief patient sitter has arrived and is in the patient room.
• Does not use the patient's bathroom for personal use.

Other related job tasks or responsibilities as assigned

Special Skills:

• Ability to read in English to follow oral and/or written instructions.
• Ability to prioritize work.
• Must have good customer service skills.

For constant observers utilized exclusively with non- behavioral health patients, all related competencies must be administered and completed prior to assignment of a patient. There will be one level of competency for all constant observers in this category.

Minimum Requirements

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Experience: One (1) year experience
• Certifications: Current American Heart Association BLS certification

Preferred Requirements

• Experience: Prior constant observer and/or CNA experience preferred

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