Patient Observer, Float Pool, 32hr, Nights, 11:00p-7:30a

UMass Memorial Health•Leominster, MA

About The Position

The Patient Safety Observer provides continuous safety observation for assigned patients, with the primary goal of ensuring patient safety and comfort. As part of the care team, the observer may assist patients with activities of daily living, including ambulating, feeding, and repositioning, as directed by nursing. When appropriate, the observer may engage patients through conversation or activities such as sensory items, cards, coloring books, and games. Care must be documented and communicated to the designated staff member, and concerns must be reported immediately to the licensed clinical charge person. This is a float-pool position assigned to areas according to patient needs. When not observing a patient, the observer may perform other ancillary activities as directed by the nursing supervisor, such as making beds in the emergency department, stocking, or assisting with patient transport. The position is scheduled for 32 hours, with night hours from 11:00 p.m. to 7:30 a.m., every other weekend and every other holiday.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
CPR certification within six months of hire.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience in a healthcare setting is preferred.

Responsibilities

Develop and maintain good interpersonal relations; introduce oneself to patients and engage in eye contact while showing respect, empathy, and care toward patients and families.
Continuously observe for suicidal or violent behavior, remain close to the patient and keep the patient in view at all times, including in the bathroom and during transport.
Monitor visitors to ensure unsafe materials, including weapons, illicit drugs, or sharps, are not shared with patients.
Complete and document 15-minute checks unless otherwise directed.
Monitor more than one patient only when deemed appropriate by the licensed staff member in charge.
Follow the directions of the nurse in charge.
Transport patients when directed by licensed staff in charge.
When not assigned to patient observation, perform ancillary tasks as directed by the nursing supervisor, such as making beds, stocking, or assisting with patient transport.
Work in a float role and accept assignment to areas according to patient needs.
Maintain patient dignity and advocate for the patient.
As directed by nursing, support patients with activities of daily living, including ambulating, feeding, and repositioning.
Engage patients when appropriate using conversation and activities such as sensory items, cards, coloring books, and games.
Document care and communicate it through report to the designated staff member.
Report issues and concerns immediately to the licensed clinical charge person.