Virtual Safety Companion - West Hospital

Mercy Health BSMH • Amberley, 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 role 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 completion of each shift assignment.

The position promotes patient safety and dignity through continuous observation, timely communication and documentation, and adherence to documented workflows. The companion may perform other duties under a nurse’s direction when the volume of observable patients is low.

Requirements

• Obtain Basic Life Support (BLS) certification within three months of hire.
• Communicate with hospital staff and respond quickly to patient behavioral changes.
• Monitor multiple patients at one time and remain alert while on duty.
• Function in stressful and emergency situations.
• Record and communicate patient status or behaviors.
• Demonstrate basic data analysis skills.
• Use discretion and courtesy when working with patients, visitors, and staff.
• Have basic computer operation skills and the ability to learn new skills.
• Use Microsoft Windows.
• Demonstrate multitasking, prioritization, attention to detail, critical thinking, and active listening.
• Follow procedures in emergency and high-stress situations.
• Take direction from staff and clinical or operational leadership.
• Communicate with family members.
• Demonstrate teamwork, conflict resolution, and relationship-building skills.
• Have 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 immediately contact appropriate bedside clinical staff when a patient requires assistance.
• Report unsafe situations or concerns to direct caregivers by phone and through Epic documentation.
• Participate in hand-offs about assigned patients and their behaviors at the beginning and end of shift assignments.
• Seek help promptly when a patient appears to pose a threat to themselves or others.
• Collaboratively identify and report patient safety issues and help ensure the patient environment is safe.
• Provide explanations to patients as needed without counseling or offering opinions.
• Follow documented workflows efficiently.
• Provide high-level customer service to 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.
• Follow safe work practices and safety rules, help prevent unsafe conditions and behaviors, and participate in organizational and departmental safety programs and huddles.
• Perform other duties under a nurse’s direction when there is a low volume of observable patients.

Benefits

• Competitive pay, incentives, referral bonuses, and a 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
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed