What are the responsibilities and job description for the Patient Safety Sitter position at Chesapeake Regional Healthcare?
Summary
The Patient Safety Sitter participates in high-quality, patient-centered care by providing continuous observation and monitoring for high-risk patients. In collaboration with the patient care team, the Patient Safety Sitter ensures the patient environment is free of obstacles and minimizes risk of falls and accidental or intentional self-harm. The Sitter may also assist with activities of daily living.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
These duties and responsibilities described below represent the general tasks performed daily. Any other duties as needed to drive to the vision fulfill the mission and abide by the values of the organization.
- Demonstrate caring and empathy in all interactions and advocate for patient and family-centered approach in all decisions and actions
- Communicates effectively with patients, families, and staff while respecting patient privacy, patient safety, and patient dignity
- Engage in effective patient hand off/reporting
- Establish a safe, risk-free patient environment by utilizing knowledge of fall prevention protocols, infection control measures, and self-harm prevention
- Maintain a direct line of sight with patient at all times including while family and/or visitors are in the room
- Accompany patient and ensure patient safety during transportation, testing, and procedures occurring away from the patient’s normal environment
- Intervene as needed to prevent patient from harming self or others. Seek immediate assistance for escalating incidents
- Monitor the patient’s physical and emotional condition. Report any changes in status promptly while remaining direct line of sight with the patient.
- Escalate concerns and opportunities to the charge nurse, clinical coordinator, and/or nurse manager
- Complete documentation in accordance with organizational guidance and policy
- Attend required hospital-wide orientations, meetings, and educational events
- Demonstrate a commitment to flexible work scheduling when necessary to ensure patient care
Education and Experience
Minimum Required Education: High School diploma or equivalent
Preferred Education: Nursing Assistant or equivalent
Preferred Experience: 1-year previous experience as a nursing assistant or similar job role
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
BLS; must be current and obtained within 90 days of hire
