Patient Sitter

Tenet Healthcare Corporation • Glendale, AZ

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Working under the supervision of a registered nurse, the Patient Sitter (constant observer) maintains constant, direct observation and visualization of assigned patient(s). The role focuses on patient observation, safety, privacy, and communication, and includes other related tasks or responsibilities as assigned. The sitter provides constant observation only and remains with the patient until a relief sitter arrives and is in the room.

Requirements

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

Nice To Haves

• Prior constant observer and/or CNA experience is preferred.
• For constant observers assigned exclusively to non-behavioral-health patients, all related competencies must be administered and completed before patient assignment; one competency level applies to all constant observers in this category.

Responsibilities

• Keep 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 off the unit, and remain with the patient during transportation 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 in 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 patient dignity, and avoid discussing patient information except with the nurse or physician.
• Listen to and acknowledge patient complaints and feelings; communicate with compassion, empathy, and understanding.
• Avoid discussing 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 themselves or others, or to leave the hospital.
• Provide a report to the relief sitter and nurse before leaving at shift end.
• 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 purposes.
• Allow the patient to control the television channel and volume.
• Perform other related job tasks or responsibilities as assigned.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer match
• Generous paid time off
• Career development and continuing education opportunities
• Health savings accounts
• Healthcare and dependent flexible spending accounts
• Employee Assistance program
• Employee discount program
• Voluntary pet insurance, legal insurance, accident and critical illness insurance, long-term care, elder and childcare, and auto and home insurance

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED