Patient Observation (Full And Part Time)

Compass Group • Alexandria, VA

3d • Onsite

About The Position

Provides visual and audible observation of assigned patients under the direction of a Registered Nurse and unit manager. The Patient Observer monitors patient condition and behavior, remains with the assigned patient unless properly relieved, supports a safe and orderly environment, and promptly escalates medical distress, unusual behavior, safety concerns, or potential risks to nursing staff. The role includes recording observations, assisting with basic patient needs when appropriate, accompanying patients to diagnostic testing, and communicating pertinent information during shift hand-offs.

The position is available full time and part time at Inova Mount Vernon Hospital in Alexandria, Virginia. Schedules vary and include shifts from 7:00 p.m. to 7:30 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.; weekend availability is required. The fixed pay rate is $18.36 per hour. No prior experience is required, although one to two years of previous experience is preferred.

Requirements

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
• Current CPR AED or Basic Life Support Healthcare Provider (BLS-HCP) certification required 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.
• Provide compassionate, hospitable, cheerful, and supportive service to patients, visitors, staff, and colleagues.
• Remain at the assigned patient's bedside unless relieved by an appropriate staff member; coordinate meal-break coverage with the nurse and notify the nurse before leaving for any reason.
• Verbally redirect patients from at-risk behaviors and assist in calming or reorienting patients who are agitated or confused.
• Seek help promptly when a patient is in medical distress or poses a threat, and escalate concerns to assigned medical professionals.
• Identify and report patient safety issues; maintain a safe, orderly patient environment, remove visible hazards, and report hazards to the charge nurse.
• Immediately summon nursing staff when the patient needs assistance, control, or nursing intervention, or exhibits unusual behavior or verbalizations; promptly report potentially dangerous behavior or concerning conversations.
• Participate in hand-offs by sharing pertinent patient information and behavior when arriving on the unit and at the end of the shift assignment.
• Accompany patients to diagnostic testing as needed.
• Assist with ordering and setting up meal trays, basic patient positioning, and wheelchair rides or ambulation when the patient is stable and the assigned staff nurse has determined the gait is safe.
• Respond rapidly and thoroughly to emergencies and special needs.
• Accept and follow direction and suggestions from supervisors and hospital staff; demonstrate knowledge of department policies and procedures.
• Follow attendance, break, behavior, dress, personal hygiene, safety, confidentiality, and 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 (full-time positions)
• Associates may be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off 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