Emergency Department AOMC Sitter - FT Day Evening Rotation

About the role

Provide continuous observation to patients to maintain their safety in accordance with the patient's rights and care plan, under the direction of a professional nurse. The Sitter reports directly to the Unit Director or designee.

Responsibilities

• Refer the patient to the nurse or physician to answer any questions regarding care.
• Monitor the patient's verbalizations and immediately inform 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}).
• Observe the patient and maintain a safe environment; provide care that does not interfere with continuous visual contact, as delegated by the RN. This includes providing CPR, preventing the patient from removing invasive lines, and preventing the patient from climbing out of bed.
• Maintain an unobstructed view of the patient in their room. Promptly refer patient requests (that the sitter cannot accommodate) to nursing staff via phone or call light/intercom system.
• Accompany the patient for any clinical tests or procedures off the unit, remaining within an arm's length distance unless otherwise directed.
• Remain in the patient's room unless there is RN approval and/or qualified relief. Wait outside the door if instructed to leave temporarily during patient care or if a visitor requests privacy.
• Adjust the radio or television only at the patient's request.
• If the patient is restrained:
  • Remove or adjust restraints only in an emergency or if instructed by an RN. Notify the RN if the patient complains of discomfort or attempts to remove restraints.
  • Preserve the patient's dignity by ensuring they are covered, curtains are pulled, and privacy is maintained.
  • Address essential care needs (e.g., assist with facial tissue use if upper limbs are restrained).
• Notify the RN immediately in the event of an emergency or sudden change in the patient's condition/behavior (e.g., medical emergency or escape attempt).
• Feed patients upon assessment and delegation by an RN.
• Operate all equipment safely after receiving in-service training; report defective equipment immediately.
• Follow policies and procedures related to Standard Precautions and emergency protocols.
• Promote and foster the mission and philosophy of the hospital during job duties and community activities.
• Support and participate in the hospital's Continuous Quality Improvement endeavors.
• Maintain confidentiality of all patient care information.
• Uphold the rights of all patients to independent expression, decision, personal freedom, dignity, and freedom from abuse or social isolation.
• Provide privacy for patients by knocking before entering, closing doors or curtains before procedures.
• Report patient complaints or grievances to the Charge Nurse as soon as possible.
• Attend all annual mandatory educational programs as required by the position.
• Interact with patients in a friendly and caring way, being attentive to their psychological and physical needs, to provide a secure and pleasant experience.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent experience required.
• No prior experience required.
• BLS CPR certification required within 90 days of hire.

Physical Demands

• Good physical and mental health is required; long periods of standing and walking may be involved.
• Frequently lifts 10 lbs and occasionally lifts 20 lbs.
• Manual dexterity is necessary for feeding patients when delegated to do so.
• Visual and aural acuity are required to adequately observe the patient's condition.

Exposure Category

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