Behavioral Observer - High Risk

About the Role

Observes and monitors patients based on orders for one-to-one observation and/or rounding observation, as appropriate. Maintains safety of the patient and security of the environment of care. Notifies the RN and other unit staff of any physiological or psychological changes that may indicate patient is in distress.

Responsibilities

• Maintains current knowledge of medical equipment, supplies, and procedures necessary for ensuring immediate patient welfare and safety.
• Ensures continuous direct observation of patients who are considered at risk.
• Charts observations in the electronic health record according to hospital policy and procedure.
• Complies with guidance and direction received from the patient’s assigned RN, LIP, and/or other hospital staff designated to provide treatment for the patient.
• Completes environmental safety checks each shift as a designee of the RN.
• Accompanies patients during transfers from one service level to another.
• Maintains a clean, organized, and uncluttered safe environment.
• Implements hospital-approved de-escalation techniques as needed.
• Interacts with patients in a professional and therapeutic manner.
• Partners with the Behavioral Emergency Response Team to create a therapeutic environment.
• Participates in the orientation of new program personnel and in the ongoing in-service education of the team.
• Adheres to and supports team members in exhibiting TMCH values of integrity, community, compassion, and dedication.
• Adheres to TMCH organizational and department-specific safety, confidentiality, values, policies, and standards.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High School diploma or general education degree (GED), or an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required.

Skills

• Knowledge of basic life support and a hospital-approved Non-Violent Crisis Intervention training program.
• Knowledge of TMCH policies and procedures to ensure safety of patients and staff.
• Skill in providing therapeutic support for patients.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to complete routine reports.
• Ability to actively listen and communicate clearly and concisely, encouraging open communications to achieve mutual understanding.
• Ability to speak effectively with patients, families, co-workers, and other personnel.
• Ability to make wise and fair judgments based on solid facts; open-minded and understanding of values of superiors, subordinates, peers, and others.
• Knowledge and ability to execute de-escalation techniques with patients and staff.