Virtual Safety Companion - West Hospital

Mercy Health • Cincinnati, OH

2d

About The Position

The Virtual Safety Companion remotely observes and interacts with assigned patients through in-room cameras, verbal interventions, and alerts to obtain bedside staff support when needed. The position works closely with bedside clinical staff, the Virtual Safety Coordinator, and the Operations Manager to escalate patient conditions and provide hand-off information at the end of shift assignments.

The role promotes patient safety and dignity through continuous patient observation, timely communication with caregivers, accurate documentation, and participation in patient safety discussions. When there is a low volume of observable patients, the employee may perform other duties under the direction of a nurse.

Requirements

• BLS Basic Life Support certification is required within three months of hire.
• Ability to communicate with hospital staff and respond quickly to patient behavioral changes.
• Ability to monitor multiple patients at once and remain alert while on duty.
• Ability to function in stressful and emergency situations.
• Ability to record and communicate patient status or behaviors.
• Basic data analysis skills.
• Discretion and courtesy when working with patients, visitors, and staff.
• Basic computer operation skills and ability to learn new skills, including Microsoft Windows.
• Multitasking and prioritization skills.
• Attention to detail, critical thinking, and active listening skills.
• Ability to follow procedures in emergency and high-stress situations.
• Ability to take direction from staff and clinical or operational leadership.
• Ability to communicate with family members.
• Teamwork, conflict resolution, and relationship-building skills.
• Knowledge of HIPAA and medical terminology.

Nice To Haves

• Patient care experience.
• Previous hospital environment experience.

Responsibilities

• Continuously observe assigned patients through a one-way camera and two-way audio device, and promptly contact appropriate bedside clinical staff when a patient needs assistance.
• Report unsafe situations or concerns to direct caregivers by phone and through Epic documentation.
• Participate in hand-offs about assigned patients at the beginning and end of shift assignments.
• Seek help promptly when a patient appears to pose a threat to themselves or others.
• Collaborate in identifying and reporting patient safety issues and help ensure patient environments are safe.
• Provide patients with explanations as needed without counseling or offering opinions.
• Follow documented workflows efficiently.
• Provide customer service to patients, patients’ families, visitors, bedside providers, and employees.
• Document patient care accurately, precisely, and promptly in Epic and patient observation software when applicable.
• Use professional verbal and written communication.
• Participate in patient escalation discussions.
• Promote safety and protect the dignity of observed patients.
• Communicate with patients using a microphone and headset.
• Multitask efficiently and remain alert while monitoring patients.
• Follow safe work practices, safety rules, and organizational and department safety programs and huddles; work to prevent unsafe conditions and behaviors.
• Perform other duties under the direction of a nurse when the volume of observable patients is low.

Benefits

• Competitive pay, incentives, referral bonuses, and 403(b) with employer contributions when eligible.
• Medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage; HSA/FSA options; life insurance; mental health resources; and discounts.
• Paid time off, parental and FMLA leave, short- and long-term disability, and backup care for children and elders.
• Tuition assistance, professional development, and continuing education support.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: No Education Listed