Patient Sitter

Conifer Health Solutions•Goodyear, AZ

21h

About The Position

Working under the supervision of a registered nurse, the Patient Sitter maintains constant direct observation and visualization of identified patients. The role focuses on patient observation, safety, privacy, communication, and appropriate conduct. The sitter documents observations as instructed, seeks assistance from staff when needed, and provides a handoff to the relief sitter and nurse before leaving at shift end. Other related job tasks or responsibilities may be assigned.

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

Keep the patient within view at all times and never leave the patient unattended.
Use the call light or intercom system to summon staff for assistance or needed equipment and supplies.
Ask the nurse before accompanying a patient off the unit, and stay with the patient during transport for 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 and indicated.
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 the patient’s ordered activity level and avoid wearing items around the neck, such as an ID badge, stethoscope, or necklace.
Maintain confidentiality, respect the patient’s 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 related to 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 themselves or others, or wants to leave the hospital.
Provide a report to the relief sitter and nurse before leaving at shift end, and remain with the patient until the relief sitter is in the room.
Provide constant observation only; do not make personal phone calls, eat in the room, sleep, use personal electronics or other distracting items, 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.
For constant observers assigned exclusively to non-behavioral-health patients, complete all related competencies before patient assignment.