What are the responsibilities and job description for the Patient Sitter - Full Time Days position at Wilkes-Barre General Hospital?
Job Summary
The Patient Sitter is responsible for providing continuous observation and maintaining a safe environment for assigned patients under the direction of a registered nurse (RN). This role plays a critical part in ensuring patient safety by adhering to infection control protocols, maintaining patient privacy and dignity, and promptly reporting any changes in patient behavior or condition. The Patient Sitter communicates effectively with the RN and other healthcare team members to support high-quality patient care.
Essential Functions
- Observes and monitors assigned patients to ensure safety, following hospital policies and procedures.
- Maintains continuous visual observation of the patient and remains with them at all times unless relieved by appropriate personnel.
- Complies with patient confidentiality standards and adheres to hospital policies regarding privacy and security.
- Follows infection control precautions, including proper hand hygiene and correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE), in compliance with facility guidelines.
- Ensures patient environment remains clean and safe, handling bio-hazardous waste and chemicals according to facility policies.
- Protects patient privacy, dignity, and respect during all interactions and care activities.
- Assists with non-clinical tasks such as repositioning, reorienting, and engaging patients in appropriate activities to reduce anxiety and restlessness.
- Reports safety hazards, unusual behaviors, or changes in patient condition to the RN or appropriate personnel immediately.
- Follows facility safety policies, procedures, and service excellence standards, including the AIDET communication framework.
- Completes delegated duties accurately and in a timely manner as directed by the RN.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
- Complies with all policies and standards.
Qualifications
- 0-1 years of experience as a patient sitter or similar role in a healthcare setting required
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Ability to maintain continuous patient observation and respond to safety concerns appropriately.
- Strong verbal communication skills to interact with patients, nurses, and the healthcare team.
- Knowledge of hospital safety protocols, infection control, and patient confidentiality regulations (HIPAA).
- Ability to remain calm and composed in high-stress or emergency situations.
- Strong attention to detail with the ability to recognize changes in patient behavior or condition.
- Professionalism and compassion in all patient interactions.
Licenses and Certifications
- BCLS - Basic Life Support obtained within 30 days of hire required
