Patient Care Observer

Tower Health•West Reading, PA

About The Position

The Patient Care Observer provides nursing care to patients under the supervision and direction of a registered nurse. The role provides constant observation and intervenes to support patient safety, responds to changes in assignments and patient needs, and helps maintain a calm, safe environment. The observer provides redirection and orientation, uses appropriate de-escalation techniques, stays close enough to intervene when needed, and promptly communicates concerns or significant changes to the directing RN. Under RN direction and supervision, the Patient Care Observer assists with basic patient care, including ambulation, transfers, meal assistance and feeding, and accompanying patients to and from procedural areas. The role protects patient privacy and dignity, participates in hand-offs, exchanges and clarifies important information, and completes Constant Observation forms accurately and thoroughly. The observer works collaboratively with patients, families, visitors, colleagues, and other departments to support positive patient outcomes and a trusting, therapeutic relationship. When there are no Patient Care Observer assignments, the employee may be asked to assist with Helping Hands duties and rounding.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years of age.
High school diploma or GED; experience may be considered in lieu of education.
BLS Certification.
Crisis Intervention Course.
Excellent communication skills.
Excellent interpersonal skills.

Nice To Haves

Direct patient care experience is preferred, but not required.

Responsibilities

Provide constant observation and intervene as needed to support patient safety.
Respond to changes in rules, tasks, assignments, and patient needs.
Provide patient redirection and orientation as needed, use appropriate de-escalation techniques, and maintain a calm and peaceful environment.
Remain in close proximity to assigned patients so intervention is possible when needed.
Recognize the presenting clinical scenario and respond appropriately; notify the RN of concerns, significant problems, or changes.
Under RN direction and supervision, assist with basic patient care, including ambulation, transfers, meals and feeding, and accompanying patients to and from procedural areas.
Maintain patient privacy and dignity.
Participate in hand-offs when arriving at or leaving a patient's bedside; exchange important information and ask questions to clarify it.
Accurately and thoroughly complete appropriate Constant Observation forms.
Provide service to patients, families, visitors, and interdisciplinary team members, and maintain good working relationships across departments.
Work with assigned patients under RN direction to support positive patient outcomes.
Use effective communication and appropriate communication channels, refrain from being critical of others, and collaborate with co-workers to identify needs and improve service.
Establish and maintain trusting, therapeutic relationships with patients and families that respect their diverse interests and requirements.
Work within the scope of the Patient Care Observer role and demonstrate responsibility for practice issues.
Assist with Helping Hands duties and rounding if there are no Patient Care Observer assignments.