Patient Safety Associate - Emergency Department

Tampa General Hospital • Tampa, FL

79d

About The Position

The Patient Safety Associate/Sitter supports the nursing staff by providing direct observation of patients on a continuous basis while on duty. He/she is accountable to the registered nurse/charge nurse responsible for coordinating unit activities and will receive assignment from the staffing office. The Patient Safety Associate/Sitter provides excellent services to all customers and communicates effectively with team members.

Requirements

• Minimum of High School or GED required.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) through American Red Cross or American Heart Association.

Responsibilities

• Receive report on a patient from the charge nurse and receives the PST Assignment form, PST flow sheet form and patient handoff form.
• Introduce self to patient and tactfully explains responsibilities.
• Remain in the patient room unless given approval to leave by RN.
• Keep the patient busy during the shift through interactions including reading, talking, games (cards, simple board games, nighttime activities may include reading, comforting, reassuring).
• Observe patient and notify the RN immediately in the event of an emergency or sudden change in the patient's condition, mood or behavior.
• Ensure unobstructed view of patient by placing chair between door and patient and remain physically close without disrupting the patient's physical space.
• Maintain observation during restroom use and trips for testing procedures.
• Identify barriers to communication with patient and collaborate with nurse to improve communication if possible.
• Monitor the environment for safety: ensure safety alarms are on and that the room is free from unsafe items like sharp objects, cords, glass, metal cans, etc. and that there is no clutter or things that someone could trip on.
• Ambulate and assist the patient in and out of bed/chair with approval from the charge nurse/RN.
• Set up food tray for meals for patients who can self-feed.
• Always remain alert. Cell phone use, texting and heavy reading are prohibited while actively in patient room observing.
• Document on observation record throughout shift and per protocol.

What This Job Offers

• Education Level: High school or GED