Virtual Monitor Technician-Medical Observer Full Time Nights

Northeast Georgia Health System•Gainesville, GA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Virtual Monitor Technician-Medical Observer position at Northeast Georgia Health System is responsible for the continuous observation of patients, either virtually or in person, to ensure and protect their safety. This role involves identifying safety concerns, documenting safety-related observations, and communicating critical information to the nursing staff. The technician is expected to intervene when there is a potential or actual threat to patient safety. Observation services are provided for adolescents, adults, and geriatric age groups. The role emphasizes maintaining a safe patient environment and recognizing changes in patient behavior that may indicate increased risk for adverse safety events.

Requirements

AHA BLS certification required within 30 days of hire
High School Diploma or GED
Effective interpersonal skills and communication skills
Adaptable in changing situation and work assignments
Demonstrated ability to monitor a patient at the bedside
Able to accept direction from professional nursing staff and assists with patient care
Physical ability to push/pull patients
Ongoing competency to monitor a patient remotely from the Virtual Monitoring Unit
Remains alert, adaptable, able to exercise good judgement, and patient focused

Nice To Haves

One (1) year of relevant clinical experience in a health care setting

Responsibilities

Interact with patients on a continuing basis to establish a trusting relationship and learn pertinent information to keep the patient safe.
Communicate with patients, family members, and staff in a polite and courteous manner.
Receive handoff communication from Patient Safety Technician at start of shift and provide handoff communication to oncoming Patient Safety Technician.
Remain professionally detached, not talking about oneself, one's thoughts or one's feelings when on assignment.
Not offer advice or counseling.
Notify nursing staff immediately at any time assistance is needed for the care of the patient.
Provide continuous observation of the patient, either at the bedside or visualization through the virtual monitoring system, and not leave them unattended.
Demonstrate an understanding of practices to maximize patient safety, employ interventions, and interact with patient to increase engagement and redirect behavior through diversional or recreational activities.
Confirm need to initiate or discontinue virtual monitoring or bedside monitoring with shift primary nurse.
Not interrupt patient visualization until relieved by a qualified replacement.
Identify the specific safety risk(s) for which the patient is being monitored.
Provide a safe patient environment (i.e. bed alarm on when appropriate, call light within reach, side rails up, etc.).
Survey the patient environment for items that could pose a potential safety risk to the patient.
Recognize changes in the patient's behavior or demeanor that indicate increase risk for an adverse safety event and escalate concerns.
Identify family/visitors who may pose a threat to the patient's safety or who bring in items that may pose a safety threat.
Never allow family members or friends to bring in items from outside (including food) for patients without going through the nursing staff.
Observe and report any suicidal/homicidal gestures/threats or changes in behavior to the licensed staff caring for the patient immediately.
Maintain continual direct visualization of the patient either at the bedside or visualization through the virtual monitoring system.
Effectively hand off to next shift, ensuring pertinent information is shared during this time.
Remain alert, adaptable, able to exercise good judgement, and patient focused.
Not make personal calls, text, or use email except during break time.
Remain within constant eye contact of the patient at all times.
Observe and report any observed changes in patient's status to appropriate member of the healthcare team.
Accurately document observations and interventions in a timely manner.
Maintain the required documentation/flowsheet that pertains to the patient's condition and reason for the observation.
Document observations and interventions by computer, handwritten or verbal communication.
Participate as a member of the nursing team, sharing mutual goals and a common mission.
Demonstrate a willingness and ability to learn basic personal cares performed in collaboration with nursing staff.
Assist patient's care team with ambulation as directed.
Assist patient's care team with repositioning and linen changes.
Assist PCT and RN with personal hygiene.
Assist PCT and RN to get patient to bathroom, bedside commode, or bedpan.
Assist patient's care team with setting up meal tray when appropriate.
Maintain order and function of Virtual Monitoring Unit and equipment.
Report equipment issues promptly to the lead patient safety technician.
Participate in staff meeting with no more than two absences per year.
Exhibit flexibility in scheduling to meet department staffing needs.
Complete unit specific & annual competency assessment requirements within the specific timelines.