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

UMass Memorial Health•Leominster, MA

About The Position

The Patient Safety Observer provides continuous safety observation for assigned patients, with the primary goals 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 through conversation or activities 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 tasks 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-shift hours of 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 human relations skills; introduce yourself to patients and engage in eye contact while consistently treating patients and family members with respect, empathy, and care.
Observe patients for suicidal or violent behavior, remain close and keep patients in view at all times, including in bathrooms and during transport to other departments.
Monitor visitors to ensure they do not share unsafe materials with patients, including weapons, illicit drugs, or sharps.
Conduct and document 15-minute checks unless otherwise directed.
Monitor more than one patient 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 observing a patient, perform ancillary activities as directed by the nursing supervisor, such as making beds in the emergency department, stocking, or assisting with patient transport.
Work in a float position and serve areas according to patient needs.
Maintain patient dignity and advocate for patients.
As directed by nursing, assist patients with activities of daily living, including ambulating, feeding, and repositioning.
Engage patients when appropriate through conversation or activities such as sensory boxes, cards, coloring books, and games.
Document care and communicate it through report to the designated staff member.
Immediately report issues and concerns to the licensed clinical charge person.