Patient Safety Assistant Float

St. Charles Health System•Bend, OR

About The Position

The Patient Safety Assistant (PSA) provides constant observation and support to pediatric, adolescent, and adult patients who need close monitoring for medical, behavioral, or safety reasons. Working under the direction of an RN, the PSA observes patients who may harm themselves or others if unattended and helps maintain a safe environment for patients and staff. The PSA supports patient safety and comfort while following established protocols and procedures and does not directly supervise other caregivers. The role is used across nursing departments and campuses throughout St. Charles Health System, which provide specialized care around the clock during hospitalization and discharge. This floating position requires travel and work at the St. Charles hospitals in Bend, Redmond, Prineville, and Madras. The schedule is third shift, 19:00–07:30, with variable scheduled days that include every other weekend and holidays; the position is full-time at 36 scheduled hours per week. The PSA may also stock unit supplies, assist with patient mobility, ensure patients have their belongings and are ready for discharge, and transport discharged patients within the facility. The position requires the ability to wear appropriate personal protective equipment.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
AHA Basic Life Support for Healthcare Provider certification before completion of orientation.
Willingness to take additional courses as required for the position.
Basic understanding of medical terminology, patient care principles, and safety protocols.
Strong observational skills and attention to detail.
Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to remain calm and composed in stressful situations.
Physical stamina and ability to stand or sit for extended periods.
Ability to interact and communicate effectively with people at all levels within St. Charles Health System and with external customers, clients, and potential employees.
Strong teamwork and collaboration skills.
Ability to follow verbal and written communications to complete duties and assignments.
Ability to wear the personal protective equipment required to perform the job safely.

Nice To Haves

Current licensure or certification as a CNA, EMT, or Medical Assistant.
Completion of an EMT, CNA, MA, or Paramedic training program.
For RN students, completion of the first quarter or semester of nursing school.
Acute health care experience.
Behavioral health experience.
Long-term care experience.
Licensed childcare experience.

Responsibilities

Maintain constant visual observation of assigned patients to support their safety and well-being.
Notice changes in patient behavior or condition and promptly report concerns to nursing staff or the healthcare team.
Conduct room checks and ensure potential harmful items are removed from patient rooms.
Assist with activities of daily living, including ambulation, toileting, and meals, as needed.
Interact therapeutically and positively with patients of all ages and backgrounds to help alleviate anxiety, boredom, or distress.
Demonstrate adherence to quality and safety requirements as measured and documented in PSA competency standards.
Accurately document observations, interventions, and patient responses in the medical record according to procedures and policies.
Follow instructed safety measures and interventions, including de-escalation strategies and room safety protocols, while respecting patient dignity.
Travel to and work in various St. Charles hospitals and nursing departments.
Maintain professionalism and confidentiality and comply with applicable laws, regulations, policies, and procedures.
Provide timely, safe, efficient, and accurate customer service and patient care.
Support the organization’s vision, mission, values, and continuous-improvement principles.
Build intentional relationships and provide a supportive, therapeutic presence for patients and families, including introducing oneself, explaining one’s role, asking patients their preferred names, listening actively, and communicating appropriately.
Help maintain a safe environment for caregivers, patients, and guests.
Perform additional duties of similar complexity and competence as required or assigned.
Stock unit supplies, assist with patient mobility, ensure patients have appropriate belongings and are ready for discharge, and transport discharged patients within the facility.