Patient Companion | PRN

PRN position with a bi‑weekly minimum of 12 hours; rotating shifts. Hourly pay grade Health‑18.

About the role

Under the supervision of a Registered Nurse, the Patient Companion provides continuous one‑to‑one safety observation for assigned patients, and when not needed for observation, functions as a Patient Care Technician and/or Unit Secretary supporting direct patient care and unit operations. The role requires professional conduct, ethical behavior, excellent communication, and a commitment to a safe, therapeutic environment.

Responsibilities

Patient Companion

• Provides continuous one‑to‑one observation of assigned patients to ensure safety at all times.
• Maintains constant visual contact and never leaves the patient unattended unless relieved by authorized staff.
• Observes and reports changes in patient condition, behavior, or safety risks immediately to the Registered Nurse.
• Assists patients with activities of daily living (ADLs), including toileting, feeding, ambulation, and repositioning as directed.
• Promotes patient comfort while maintaining a safe environment.
• Intervenes appropriately to prevent falls, self‑harm, removal of medical devices, or other unsafe behaviors per hospital policy.
• Documents observations and activities as required.
• Communicates effectively with nursing staff regarding patient status and concerns.
• Maintains patient dignity, confidentiality, and privacy at all times.

Patient Care Technician (PCT)

• Provides direct patient care under the supervision of a Registered Nurse.
• Obtains and records vital signs, height, weight, intake and output, and other patient data as assigned.
• Assists patients with bathing, grooming, dressing, feeding, mobility, and other personal care needs.
• Assists with patient transport, transfers, and ambulation using proper body mechanics and safety techniques.
• Collects specimens and performs delegated clinical tasks within scope of training and competency.
• Maintains patient rooms, equipment, and supplies in a clean, organized, and safe condition.
• Recognizes and reports changes in patient condition promptly to the Registered Nurse.
• Assists with admission, discharge, and transfer procedures.
• Supports a decentralized, patient‑centered approach to care and contributes to achieving desired patient outcomes.

Unit Secretary

• Processes physician orders accurately and timely according to hospital procedures.
• Maintains patient charts, forms, and records in an organized and compliant manner.
• Ensures patient charts contain required forms and documentation.
• Answers telephones, relays messages, and communicates effectively with physicians, staff, patients, and visitors.
• Performs clerical and data entry functions related to patient care and unit operations.
• Orders and maintains adequate inventory of unit supplies through materials management.
• Assists with scheduling, record maintenance, and other administrative functions as assigned.
• Supports efficient workflow at the nurses' station and throughout the unit.

Additional Responsibilities

• Cross‑trains and functions in multiple roles based on departmental needs and staffing requirements.
• Participates in orientation, ongoing education, competency validation, and performance improvement activities.
• Adheres to hospital policies, procedures, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Maintains patient confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA and organizational standards.
• Demonstrates ethical, professional, and appropriate behavior at all times.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Previous healthcare experience preferred (Patient Care Technician, Nursing Assistant, Patient Sitter, Unit Secretary, or related role).
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, lifting, pushing, and pulling.
• Ability to lift and move patients and equipment in accordance with hospital safety guidelines.
• Ability to remain alert and attentive during extended periods of patient observation.
• Ability to perform duties requiring manual dexterity, visual acuity, and effective verbal communication.

Working Conditions