Patient Sitter - Constant Observer

Conifer Health Solutions•Goodyear, AZ

About The Position

Working under the supervision of a registered nurse, the Patient Sitter (Constant Observer) maintains constant, direct observation and visualization of identified patient(s). The sitter focuses on patient safety, privacy, and communication, follows the patient's ordered activity level, and provides observation only. The sitter must remain with the patient until an arriving relief sitter is in the room and provide a report to the relief sitter and nurse before leaving at shift end.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Current American Heart Association BLS certification.
Ability to read English and follow oral and/or written instructions.
Ability to prioritize work.
Good customer service skills.

Nice To Haves

Prior constant observer experience.
Prior CNA experience.

Responsibilities

Maintain the patient within view at all times and never leave the patient unattended.
Use the call light or intercom to summon staff for assistance or needed equipment and supplies.
Ask the nurse before accompanying the patient during transport, and remain with the patient during off-unit diagnostic tests or procedures.
Remain in the patient’s room and leave only with RN approval and/or relief.
Document observations on the flow sheet as instructed.
Keep the patient room door open or partially open and the bathroom door open at all times.
Remove sharp or dangerous items from the room and assist the nurse in screening items brought by visitors.
Know and follow the patient’s ordered activity level; avoid wearing items around the neck, such as an ID badge, stethoscope, or necklace.
Maintain confidentiality, respect patient dignity, and discuss patient information only with the nurse or physician.
Listen to and acknowledge the patient’s complaints and feelings, and communicate with compassion, empathy, and understanding.
Do not discuss information about the patient’s medical condition or plan of care; seek guidance when unsure.
Immediately inform the nurse if the patient expresses a desire to harm self or others or to leave the hospital.
Provide a report to the relief sitter and nurse before leaving at shift end, and do not leave until the relief sitter is in the patient room.
Provide constant observation only; do not make personal phone calls, eat in the room, sleep, use distracting personal items or electronics, or use the patient’s bathroom for personal use.
Allow the patient to control the television channel and volume.
Perform other related job tasks or responsibilities as assigned.
Complete all required related competencies before assignment when serving exclusively with non-behavioral-health patients.