Patient Observer

Wickenburg Community Hospital•Wickenburg, AZ

7d•Onsite

About The Position

Under the supervision of an RN, the Patient Observer provides one-to-one or, at times, one-to-two observation of behavioral health patients. The role helps maintain a safe and clean environment, supports nursing-team efficiency, and supervises patients during activities of daily living, without providing direct patient care. This is a PRN position, with an expectation to work at least two shifts per month when the departments require an observer. The observer remains with the assigned patient and keeps the patient in sight at all times, coordinates breaks with nursing staff, follows the nurse’s directions regarding mobility and redirection, and communicates and records observations as instructed. The role requires completion of CPI training and periodic refreshers, and CPR certification within three months of hire.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Ability to demonstrate the knowledge and skills needed to provide a safe environment based on the ages of patients served.
Familiarity with typical behaviors across various age groups and ability to recognize deviations from the norm.
Obtain CPR certification within three months of hire.
Complete and pass CPI training and attend a CPI refresher every 18 months.
Ability to move freely and with ease and to sit for long periods.
Must not use personal cell phones, tablets, or other electronic devices while observing a patient.

Responsibilities

Obtain a verbal report from the patient’s nurse about care needs, diagnosis, communication barriers, and special considerations.
Remain positioned to observe the patient and never leave the patient alone or out of sight; notify nursing staff when a break is needed and coordinate relief.
Obtain nurse instructions regarding ambulation limitations and how to redirect the patient if needed.
Accompany patients during off-unit testing or procedures without transporting them, remaining within arm’s length unless directed otherwise by the person performing the procedure.
Observe patient activity and behavior and regularly communicate relevant information to the nurse as directed.
Accurately and legibly record collected data on the provided paper tool and notify the RN of untoward events, including behavioral changes or violent behavior.
Complete and pass CPI training and attend WCH-provided CPI refresher training every 18 months.
Return calls within 30 minutes of being notified that an observer is needed, even when unable to take the assignment.
Work at least two shifts per month when the organization requires an observer.
Apply principles of caring and healing in interactions with patients, families, and colleagues.
Seek and support opportunities for professional growth and development.
Provide consistent, visible support to team members.
Comply with hospital rules, regulations, and nursing standards.
Understand and verbalize responsibilities during emergency codes.
Keep the assigned patient as the primary responsibility at all times.
Act honestly and comply with applicable federal and state laws and regulations.
Maintain the privacy and security of confidential and protected health information and use or disclose only information necessary to perform the job.
Perform related duties as assigned.