Patient Sitter

Overview

To provide the services of a sitter for any patient on a patient care unit who has been assessed to require constant observation in order to maximize his or her safety. Performs a variety of routine duties to assist in the delivery of patient care.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrates the skills and judgement necessary to provide direct care to patients under the directions of licensed personnel.
• Assists the patient with activities of daily living as directed by the nursing staff.
• Communicates effectively and documents information accurately.
• Monitors the safety of the behavior management patient.
• Assists the Nurse or Nurse Aide with procedures at bedside.
• Assists with wayfinding in the hallway, as needed.
• Answers call lights as well as meets the needs of the patient when able, such as take ice to the room.
• Provides excellent customer service to patients and their families by rounding, offering blankets, ice, water, lights dimmed, doors closed, even temperature maintenance.
• Assists with maintaining a safe, clean, and orderly patient environment.
• Maintains ongoing communication with the Nurse assigned to patient.
• Attends all required safety training programs and can describe his or her responsibilities related to general safety, department/service safety, and specific job-related hazards.
• Follows the hospital exposure controls plans/blood borne and airborne pathogens.
• Demonstrates respect and regard for the dignity of all patients, families, visitors, and fellow employees to ensure a professional, responsible, and courteous environment.
• Promotes effective working relations and works effectively as part of a departmental team to facilitate the department’s ability to meet its goals and objectives.

Qualifications

Education

• CPR certification preferred.

• Formal healthcare training preferred, including Nursing Assistant, Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), or equivalent training.

Experience

• Previous hospital experience preferred.

• Previous nursing home experience preferred.

• Equivalent healthcare experience may be considered.

Required Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

• Ability to communicate effectively with patients, families, and healthcare team members.

• Ability to document information accurately and completely.

• Ability to deal efficiently and effectively with a wide variety of individuals.

• Knowledge of basic medical terminology preferred.

• Basic computer knowledge preferred.

• Ability to move and/or lift patients and equipment safely.

• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills.

• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced healthcare environment.

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism in all interactions.