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- Tasks: Monitor and support patients at risk of self-harm, ensuring their safety and dignity.
- Company: Join Boston Medical Center, a leader in health equity and exceptional patient care.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive work environment with opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in patients' lives while working in a caring team culture.
- Qualifications: High school diploma required; must complete 1:1 observation training.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with every third weekend off; ideal for students seeking meaningful work.
The Patient Safety Observer (One To One Sitter) performs one to one observation with patients admitted for an attempted suicide, with patients considered actively suicidal and on all patients who may harm themselves or for other safety reasons.
Responsibilities for patients at risk for suicide, self-injury, harm to others, and disorientation:
- Must be within arms length of the patient at all times, unless otherwise directed by the charge RN.
- Must be able to visually monitor patient at all times.
- Must continuously observe and physically accompany patient to the bathrooms or when patient has to go off the unit for tests.
- Must make every effort to respect the dignity of the patient.
- May not leave the patient unattended for any period of time unless relieved by another staff member.
- If assistance is needed, the sitter must call out for help.
- If situation is not an emergency, sitter may use call night or telephone in room.
- Must maintain verbal contact with the patient while awake to provide ongoing monitoring of communication indicating suicidal thoughts, and observe for sudden changes in behaviour, and other changes in behaviour which may indicate suicide potential.
- Must report any significant changes in physical and mental status, such as sudden changes in behaviour and/or verbalization of suicidal thoughts and behaviour to the assigned RN immediately.
- Must report verbalizations and/or behaviours of self-injury, harming others, self-harm or attempts to leave the hospital to the assigned RN immediately.
- Demonstrates awareness of potentially hazardous items and informs all Medical Center personnel entering the patient's room to leave any hazardous items outside the room.
- Continuously monitors environment for potentially hazardous items and reports presence of hazardous items to assigned RN.
- Obtains assistance appropriately, according to situations.
- Manages emergency situations safely: Reports emergency situations immediately and appropriately. Intervenes with patient appropriately.
- Responsibilities when patient is in restraints: Performs safety checks by checking restrained extremities at least every 15 minutes for restraint intact circulation, comfort, and body alignment.
- Documents safety checks on the restraint observation and documentation record and/or medical/surgical flow sheet.
- Notifies charge RN/assigned RN if restraints need adjustment.
Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalency.
Minimum Skills and Abilities: Able to communicate verbally and in writing in the English Language. Able to lift, transfer and move patients.
Certification/Licensure: Must attend 1:1 observation class.
Training: Successful completion of 1:1 observation class.
Patient Safety Observer- 36 hours: 3/12 hours shifts 7a-7:30p, Every Third Weekend employer: Boston Medical Center
Contact Detail:
Boston Medical Center Recruiting Team
Talentacquisition@bmc.org
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Patient Safety Observer- 36 hours: 3/12 hours shifts 7a-7:30p, Every Third Weekend
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities of a Patient Safety Observer. Understanding the nuances of patient monitoring and safety protocols will help you demonstrate your knowledge during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the healthcare field, especially those who work in mental health settings. They can provide insights into the role and may even refer you to opportunities at Boston Medical Center.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for situational questions that may arise during the interview. Think about how you would handle specific scenarios involving patient safety and communication, as these are critical aspects of the job.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your ability to work in a team environment. Highlight any previous experiences where you collaborated with others to ensure patient safety or well-being, as teamwork is essential in this role.
We think you need these skills to ace Patient Safety Observer- 36 hours: 3/12 hours shifts 7a-7:30p, Every Third Weekend
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Patient Safety Observer. Familiarise yourself with the job description and the skills required, such as communication and monitoring abilities.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the role. Emphasise any previous work in healthcare or roles that required close patient interaction and observation.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that explains why you are interested in the position and how your background makes you a suitable candidate. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to handle the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Boston Medical Center
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you have a clear understanding of what a Patient Safety Observer does. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities, such as monitoring patients and reporting any changes in behaviour. This will help you answer questions confidently.
✨Demonstrate Empathy
In this role, you'll be working closely with vulnerable patients. Show your ability to empathise and communicate effectively. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've demonstrated compassion and understanding.
✨Know the Protocols
Be aware of the safety protocols and procedures related to patient observation. This includes knowing how to handle emergency situations and the importance of maintaining constant communication with the assigned RN.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could include inquiries about team dynamics, training opportunities, or how the hospital supports its staff. It shows your genuine interest in the position and the organisation.
