Patient Companion

VPNE•Burlington, MA

88d•$19 - $20

About The Position

The Patient Care Companion works under the direction of the registered Nurse responsible for the Patient’s care and follows the Patient’s individualized needs. Nursing care is provided by the nursing staff. The companion observes and supports the Patient’s safety and well-being under the direct supervision of licensed personnel, and may be assigned to watch patients at risk for suicide. The position is scheduled Friday through Tuesday, 3:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. The companion remains on duty until relieved by oncoming coverage or until the Nurse discontinues coverage.

Requirements

Entry-level experience.
Proficient in English, both verbally and in writing.
Demonstrate proper body mechanics in all functions.
Understand individual roles and responsibilities during a hospital code, such as Code Green or Code Red.
Perform proper hand washing per CDC guidelines.
Safeguard patient information and comply with hospital privacy and security policies and procedures.
Convey respect for the values, preferences, and expressed needs of the Patient and family.
Interact sensitively when delivering care or services to diverse populations as needed.
Report to work in proper uniform per departmental standards and hospital policy.
Maintain a professional, courteous attitude toward the Patient, coworkers, and all departments.

Responsibilities

Communicate any change of assignment to the nursing office.
Perform patient observation as assigned and document the Patient’s behavior using the appropriate form or tool.
Obtain information about the Patient’s care from a Registered Nurse at the start of the shift.
Adhere to Patient conversation guidelines.
Monitor the Patient’s safety, maintain a safe environment as directed by the registered Nurse, and keep the Patient in sight.
Monitor the Patient for escalating behavior.
Accompany the Patient to the bathroom and to tests as needed.
Demonstrate proficiency with bed alarms.
Place the Patient’s clothing and belongings in the Patient’s closet, away from the Patient.
Provide direct care to patients under the direct supervision of licensed personnel, using the necessary skills and judgment.
Observe and report the Patient’s status and needs to the Nurse.
Remain on duty until relieved by oncoming coverage or until the Nurse discontinues coverage.
Report the Patient’s status to oncoming staff in a respectful, professional manner.
Communicate and collaborate effectively with patients and families to promote Patient health and well-being.
Utilize the Chain of Command to communicate identified patient or staff safety risks.
Bring potential compliance issues to a manager, supervisor, director, or VP.
Maintain patient information privacy and security and comply with applicable hospital policies and procedures.
Report to work in the proper uniform and maintain a professional, courteous attitude toward the Patient, coworkers, and other departments.