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

UMass Memorial Health•Leominster, MA

6d•$15 - $21

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 support activities of daily living—including ambulating, feeding, and repositioning—as directed by nursing. When appropriate, the observer may engage patients using casual conversation or items such as sensory boxes, 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 position, assigned to areas according to patient needs. When not observing a patient, the observer may perform ancillary duties as directed by the nursing supervisor, such as making beds in the emergency department, stocking, or helping transport patients. The role is scheduled for 32 hours, with an overnight schedule of 11:00 p.m. to 7:30 a.m.; the schedule includes every other weekend and every other holiday.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
CPR certification within six months of hire.
Ability to meet the physical demands described, including standing, walking, sitting, pushing or pulling, stooping, kneeling, crouching or crawling, reaching, and lifting or exerting force at the listed weights.
Ability to work in the listed environmental conditions, including exposure to infectious diseases, wet or humid conditions, moving mechanical parts, potential radiation, and physical or verbal abusiveness.

Nice To Haves

Previous employment in a healthcare setting.

Responsibilities

Build and maintain positive human relations; introduce yourself to patients, make eye contact, and treat patients and family members respectfully, empathetically, and with care.
Observe continuously 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 they do not provide patients with unsafe materials, such as weapons, illicit drugs, or sharps.
Complete and document 15-minute checks unless otherwise directed.
Monitor more than one patient when deemed appropriate by the licensed staff member in charge.
Follow directions from the nurse in charge.
Transport patients when directed by licensed staff in charge.
When not assigned to patient observation, perform ancillary activities as directed by the nursing supervisor, such as making beds, stocking, or assisting with patient transport.
Float to areas where patient needs arise.
Maintain patient dignity and advocate for the patient.
Support activities of daily living, including ambulating, feeding, and repositioning, as directed by nursing.
Document care and communicate it through report to the designated staff member; immediately report issues or concerns to the licensed clinical charge person.
Engage patients when appropriate using casual conversation or available activities and sensory items.