Patient Care Observer

Tower Health•West Reading, PA

10h

About The Position

The Patient Care Observer provides nursing care to patients under the supervision and direction of a registered nurse. The role involves constant observation and intervention for patient safety, responding to changes in rules, tasks, and assignments, and maintaining a safe, calm environment. The observer provides redirection and orientation as needed, uses appropriate de-escalation techniques, and communicates in a non-threatening manner while remaining close enough to intervene when necessary. Under RN direction, the observer assists with basic patient care, including ambulation, transfers, meal assistance and feeding, and accompanying patients to and from procedural areas. The role includes maintaining patient privacy and dignity, communicating concerns and significant changes to the RN, participating in hand-offs, and accurately completing Constant Observation forms. The observer also works with patients, families, colleagues, and other departments to support positive patient outcomes and deliver respectful, responsive service. 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 maintain patient safety.
Provide redirection and orientation to patients as needed, using appropriate de-escalation techniques and maintaining a calm, peaceful environment.
Remain in close proximity to patients to allow timely intervention.
Recognize the patient’s clinical scenario and respond appropriately.
Notify the RN of patient concerns, significant problems, or changes.
Assist with basic patient care under RN supervision, including ambulation, transfers, meal assistance and feeding, and accompanying patients to and from procedural areas.
Maintain patient privacy and dignity.
Participate in hand-offs and receive or provide important information to team members; ask questions to clarify information.
Complete appropriate Constant Observation forms accurately and thoroughly.
Provide service to patients, families, visitors, and interdisciplinary team members.
Maintain working relationships across departments and collaborate to meet patient and family needs.
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.
Work with co-workers to identify needs and improve service.
Establish and maintain trusting, therapeutic relationships with patients and families while respecting their diverse interests and requirements.
Demonstrate understanding of practice responsibilities within the Patient Care Observer scope.
Assist with Helping Hands duties and rounding when there are no Patient Care Observer assignments.