Patient Safety Companion (PSC) Systemwide Float Pool

SEH Saint Elizabeth Medical Center•Florence, KY

About The Position

The Patient Safety Companion (PSC) is a member of the System Float Pool Nursing team and works under the direction of the Registered Nurse. The PSC provides constant, one-to-one observation for assigned patients at risk for suicide, falls, confusion, or combativeness, and works under the direct supervision of the RN. The role requires treating patients, family members, and others with dignity and respect while maintaining patient confidentiality and not discussing patient care with others, including family members. The PSC continually observes patient behavior, mental status, and activities; identifies behaviors requiring intervention; and notifies the RN of changes or unusual occurrences. The PSC helps maintain patient safety until nursing staff arrive in the event of escalation, accompanies patients to testing when observation is needed, performs and documents scheduled safety checks, and understands the unit layout for emergencies. The position supports a culture of safety and quality and provides care that considers patients’ ages, developmental needs, and cultural diversity. Other duties may be assigned to support effective treatment and patient safety.

Requirements

High school graduate or GED.
Strong communication skills.
Ability to work independently and interdependently and set priorities.
Ability to accept and adapt to change.
Understand the need to seek assistance in the event of patient distress.
No prior experience required.

Responsibilities

Provide constant, one-to-one observation of assigned patients at risk for suicide, falls, confusion, or combativeness.
Work under the direction and direct supervision of the Registered Nurse for the assigned patient.
Maintain patient safety until nursing staff arrive in the event of escalation.
Accompany patients to testing when observation is needed.
Maintain patient confidentiality and do not discuss patient care with anyone, including family members.
Remain awake throughout the shift.
Understand the unit layout for emergency needs.
Continually observe patient behavior, mental status, and activities.
Notify the RN of changes or unusual occurrences.
Identify patient behaviors that require intervention.
Maintain positive communication with patients.
Consider patients’ ages, lifespan developmental needs, and cultural diversity when providing care and treatment.
Support and maintain a culture of safety and quality.
Perform safety checks at scheduled times and document them appropriately.
Perform other assigned duties that assist treatment effectiveness and ensure patient safety.