Patient Observation Assistant at Dell Seton Medical Center at University of Texas

Summary:  Provides visual and audible observation of assigned patients under the direction of a Registered Nurse (RN) and unit manager. 

OPEN Positions (hours availability and details)

• 1st shift (7am-3:30pm)
• 2nd shift (3pm-11:30pm)  qualifies for shift differential-(base rate +$1.50/hr.)
• 3rd Shift (11p-7:30am)  qualifies for shift differential-(base rate +$3/hr.)
• All Weekend Shifts: qualifies for shift differential- (base rate+ 1.00/hr.) 

Schedule requirements:

• Schedule is based on hospital needs
• Every other weekend on Saturday and Sundays (required)
• Available at least 1-2 days during the week (hours between 16-24 hours per week)
  • Half shifts available for pick up (4 hour shifts)
• Opportunity to pick up additional shifts based on shift needs
• Contingent positions for students requesting (PRN)

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Visually and audibly monitors the assigned patient's condition and behavior at all times.
• Observing patient in isolation precautions- PPE is provided
• Completes observation reports at established interval.
• Takes initiative in compassionately rendering service or responding to needs. Interacts hospitably, cheerfully and supportively with staff, patients, visitors and work colleagues.
• Remains at the bedside of assigned patient at all times unless relieved by an appropriate staff member.
• Verbally redirects the patient from engaging in at-risk behaviors.
• Seeks help or advice as soon as possible when patient appears to be in medical distress or poses a threat, and escalates to assigned medical professionals.
• Participates in collaborative identification and reporting of patient safety issues. Assures patient environment is safe; reports any safety hazards to the charge nurse. Removes visible hazards and reports as appropriate.
• Assists in calming and/or reorienting patient in cases of agitation or confusion.
• Assists with keeping patient's room safe and orderly.
• Accompanies patient when diagnostic testing is required.
• Immediately summons the nursing staff if the patient requires assistance, control, or other nursing interventions, or exhibits unusual behavior or verbalizations. Immediately reports any potentially dangerous behavior or concerning conversations to the nurse.
• Participates in hand-off of pertinent information/behavior about assigned patient when arriving on unit and upon completion of shift assignment. Arranges coverage around meal break times with nurse and informs nurse prior to leaving patient for any reason.
• Assists patient with ordering dietary tray and setting up of patient's meal tray; assists with basic positioning of patient; assists with patient wheelchair rides and/or ambulation if patient is stable and gait has been previously determined safe by assigned staff nurse.
• Responds rapidly and thoroughly to emergencies, special needs, etc.
• Accepts suggestions and direction from supervisors and hospital staff.
• Demonstrates knowledge of department policies and procedures. Honors department's attendance, break, behavior, dress, personal hygiene, and safety codes.
• Honors all confidentiality and other regulatory requirements.
• Accepts and absorbs department and hospital education program.
• Assists other associates as necessary. Responds to direction as provided.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:  

• Current CPR AED or basic life Support healthcare provider (BLS-HCP) certification required. ( Touchpoint will provide certification)
• Ability to walk or stand for prolonged periods. Requires bending, stooping, reaching up, and lifting up to 50 pounds.
• One to two years of previous experience is preferred.