Patient Observation Assistant (Full And Part Time)

Compass Group • Columbia, SC

3d • Onsite

About The Position

Provides visual and audible observation of assigned patients under the direction of a Registered Nurse (RN) and unit manager. The position involves continuously monitoring patient condition and behavior, supporting patient safety, and responding promptly to patient needs or potential emergencies. The assistant remains at the assigned patient's bedside unless relieved by an appropriate staff member and accompanies the patient for diagnostic testing as needed.

The assistant helps maintain a safe, orderly patient environment; redirects patients from at-risk behaviors; and supports patients who are agitated or confused. When a patient is stable and the assigned staff nurse has determined the patient's gait is safe, the assistant may help with basic positioning, meal setup, wheelchair rides, and ambulation. The role also includes documenting observations, communicating pertinent information during handoffs, following department and hospital policies, and accepting direction from supervisors and hospital staff.

The position is offered in full-time and part-time schedules with days and hours that may vary, 12-hour shifts, and required weekend availability. No prior experience is required; one to two years of previous experience is preferred. A high school diploma, GED, or equivalent is required. Current CPR AED or BLS-HCP certification is required within 30 days of hire if required at the facility. Pay is $18.00 per hour.

Requirements

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
• Current CPR AED or Basic Life Support Healthcare Provider (BLS-HCP) certification within 30 days of hire, if required at the facility.
• Ability to walk or stand for prolonged periods.
• Ability to bend, stoop, reach upward, and lift up to 50 pounds.

Nice To Haves

• One to two years of previous experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Visually and audibly monitor the assigned patient's condition and behavior at all times.
• Complete observation reports at established intervals.
• Respond compassionately and supportively to patient needs and interact hospitably with staff, patients, visitors, and colleagues.
• Remain at the assigned patient's bedside unless relieved by an appropriate staff member.
• Verbally redirect patients from at-risk behaviors.
• Seek help promptly when a patient appears to be in medical distress or poses a threat, and escalate concerns to assigned medical professionals.
• Participate in identifying and reporting patient safety issues; report hazards to the charge nurse and remove visible hazards when appropriate.
• Assist in calming or reorienting patients who are agitated or confused, and help keep patient rooms safe and orderly.
• Accompany patients when diagnostic testing is required.
• Immediately summon nursing staff when a patient needs assistance, control, or nursing intervention, or exhibits unusual behavior or verbalizations.
• Immediately report potentially dangerous behavior or concerning conversations to the nurse.
• Participate in handoffs by sharing pertinent patient information and behavior at the start and completion of shift assignments.
• Arrange meal-break coverage with the nurse and inform the nurse before leaving the patient for any reason.
• Assist patients with ordering dietary trays and setting up meal trays; assist with basic positioning, wheelchair rides, or ambulation when the patient is stable and the assigned staff nurse has determined gait is safe.
• Respond rapidly and thoroughly to emergencies and special needs.
• Follow supervisor and hospital staff direction, department policies and procedures, attendance and safety codes, confidentiality rules, and other regulatory requirements.
• Participate in department and hospital education programs and assist other associates as necessary.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Retirement Plan
• Associate Shopping Program
• Health and Wellness Programs
• Discount Marketplace
• Identity Theft Protection
• Pet Insurance
• Critical Illness Insurance
• Accident Insurance
• Hospital Indemnity Insurance
• Legal Services
• Choice Auto and Home Program
• Medical insurance (full-time positions)
• Dental insurance (full-time positions)
• Vision insurance (full-time positions)
• Life Insurance/AD (full-time positions)
• Disability Insurance (full-time positions)
• Commuter Benefits (full-time positions)
• Employee Assistance Program (full-time positions)
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) (full-time positions)
• Paid and/or unpaid time off may be available in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED