Sitter - Float - Per Diem

MAIN FUNCTION:

Provide observation to patients who require continuous observation. The primary purpose of this job position is to render routine daily observation and services to maintain the safety of the patient in accordance with the patient's rights and care plan and under the direction of a professional nurse. The Sitter reports directly to the Unit Director or designee.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Refers the patient to the nurse or physician to answer any questions regarding care.

1. Monitors the patient's verbalizations and immediately informs the nurse if the patient expresses any idea or intention to hurt self/others or leave without physician's permission (elopement or Against Medical Advice {AMA}).

1. Observes the patient and maintains a safe environment, and as delegated by the RN, may provide care to the patient that does not interfere with the ability to maintain continuous visual contact. In accordance with training, responsible for maintaining the patient's safety which includes, but is not limited to, the following: providing CPR, keeping the patient from removing invasive lines, and keeping the patient from climbing out of bed.

1. Remains in the patient's room with an unobstructed view of the patient. Patient requests (that the sitter cannot accommodate/respond to) for assistance are promptly referred to the nursing staff via the phone or call light/intercom system.

1. Accompanies the patient for any clinical tests or procedures off the unit. Remains within an arm's length distance of the patient unless otherwise directed by the person performing the test or procedure.

1. Remains in the patient's room unless there is RN approval and/or qualified relief.

1. Waits outside the door if instructed to leave the room temporarily while the patient receives care.

1. Obtains RN approval to leave room if the patient's visitor requests that the sitter leave the room temporarily.

1. Turns on/off or adjust the station or volume on a radio or television only at the patient's request

1. If the patient is restrained:

1. Removes or adjust restraints only in an emergency, or if instructed to do so by an RN. Notifies the RN if the patient complains of discomfort or attempts to remove the restraint(s).

1. Ensures that the patient's dignity is preserved: patient is covered, curtains pulled, door adjusted to provide privacy.

1. Ensures that essential care needs are addressed (e.g., if upper limbs are restrained assist patient with facial tissue use, etc.)

1. In the event of an emergency or a sudden change in the patient's condition/behavior (e.g., medical emergency or escape attempt), notifies the RN immediately.

1. Feeds patients upon assessment and delegation by an RN.

1. Operates all equipment in a safe manner after receiving in-service on how to use equipment.

1. Reports defective equipment to Unit Director/Charge Nurse immediately.

1. Follows policies and procedures related to Standard Precautions.

1. Follows emergency protocols.

1. Promotes and fosters the mission and philosophy of the Hospital during performance of job duties and community activities.

1. Actively supports and participates in the Hospital Continuous Quality Improvement endeavors.

1. Maintains confidentiality of all patients/residents care information.

1. Maintains the rights of all patients/residents to independent expression, decision, personal freedom, dignity, and freedom from abuse or social isolation.

1. Provides privacy for patients/residents / knocks before entering the patient's room, closes door or curtain before performing procedures.

1. Reports patient/resident's complaints or grievances to Charge Nurse as soon as possible.

1. Is responsible for attending all annual mandatory educational programs as required by position.

1. Employee understands and demonstrates the importance of satisfying the needs of the customer/patient by interacting with him/her in a friendly and caring way, being attentive to the customer's needs, both psychologically and physically, and by taking the initiative to maintain communication with the customer in order to provide a secure and pleasant experience with the Arnot Health.

1. It is understood that this job description lists typical duties for the classification and is not to be considered inclusive of all duties which may be assigned.

EDUCATION:

High school diploma or equivalent experience required.

EXPERIENCE:

No experience required.

CARDIOPULMONARY RESUSCITATION (CPR) REQUIREMENTS:

BLS CPR required within 90 days of hire date.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

1. Good physical and mental health is required because long periods of standing and walking may be involved.
2. Frequently lifts 10 lbs and occasionally lifts 20 lbs.
3. Manual dexterity is necessary for feeding patient upon delegation to do so.
4. Visual and aural acuity are required to make adequate observations of patient's condition.

EXPOSURE CATEGORY:

Category I. Tasks that involve exposure to blood, body fluids or tissues.