Patient Safety Assistant Float

About the role

The Patient Safety Assistant (PSA) provides constant observation and support to pediatric, adolescent, and adult patients who require close monitoring due to medical, behavioral, or safety reasons. Working under the direction of an RN, the PSA ensures patient safety and comfort while adhering to established protocols and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Provides continuous monitoring by maintaining constant visual observation of an assigned patient to ensure their safety and well-being.
• Remains alert to changes in patient behavior or condition and promptly reports any concerns to the nursing staff or healthcare team.
• Conducts room checks to ensure potential harmful items are removed from the patient's room.
• Assists with activities of daily living, such as ambulation, toileting, and meal assistance, as needed.
• Interacts with patients of all ages, social, cultural, and economic backgrounds using a polite, therapeutic, and positive approach to alleviate anxiety, boredom, or distress.
• Demonstrates and validates adherence to quality and safety standards as measured and documented in competency assessments.
• Accurately documents observations, interventions, and patient responses in the medical record according to established procedures and policies.
• Follows safety measures and interventions as instructed, such as de-escalation strategies and room safety protocols, while ensuring patient dignity and respect.
• Travels and works in various St. Charles Hospitals and nursing departments as needed.
• Conducts all activities with the highest standards of professionalism and confidentiality.
• Complies with all applicable laws, regulations, policies, and procedures, supporting the health system’s corporate integrity efforts.
• Delivers customer service and patient care in a manner that promotes goodwill, timeliness, safety, efficiency, and accuracy.
• Supports the vision, mission, and values of the organization.
• Participates in continuous improvement initiatives and champions change.
• Provides a therapeutic presence by responding to the needs of patients and families in a caring way, including active listening and effective communication.
• Maintains a safe environment for caregivers, patients, and guests.
• May perform additional duties such as stocking unit supplies, assisting with patient mobility, ensuring patients have appropriate belongings for discharge, and transporting discharged patients within the facility.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Willingness to take additional courses as required for the position.
• AHA Basic Life Support for Healthcare Provider certification, prior to completion of orientation.

Preferred Qualifications

• Current Licensure/Certification as a CNA, EMT, or Medical Assistant.
• Completion of training program: EMT, CNA, MA, Paramedic, or RN student (completion of 1st quarter/semester of nursing school).
• Acute healthcare, behavioral health, long-term care, or licensed childcare experience.