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- Tasks: Provide one-to-one observation for patients at risk of self-harm or suicide.
- Company: Join a dedicated healthcare team focused on patient safety and well-being.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible shifts, valuable experience, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive environment that values compassion and teamwork.
- Qualifications: High school diploma required; must complete a 1:1 observation training.
- Other info: Work 36 hours with 3 shifts from 7 PM to 7:30 AM, including every third weekend.
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.
Supervised and/or reportable to the following: Resource Manager
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 verbalisation of suicidal thoughts and behaviour to the assigned RN immediately.
- Must report verbalisations 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.
- Assist patient with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs).
- Continuously monitors environment for potentially hazardous items and reports presence of hazardous items to assigned RN.
- Obtains assistance appropriately, according to situations.
- Demonstrates awareness of the behaviours/verbalizations and patient issues that require reporting to the charge or assigned RN, and immediacy of need to report this information.
- 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.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Disabled/Veterans
Patient Safety Observer- 36 hours: 3/12 hours shifts 7p-7:30a, Every Third Weekend employer: Boston Medical Center (BMC)
Contact Detail:
Boston Medical Center (BMC) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Patient Safety Observer- 36 hours: 3/12 hours shifts 7p-7:30a, Every Third Weekend
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific responsibilities of a Patient Safety Observer. Understanding the nuances of patient care, especially in high-stress situations, will help you demonstrate your readiness for the role during any interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Gain experience in similar environments, such as volunteering or working in mental health settings. This hands-on experience can provide you with valuable insights and skills that will make you stand out as a candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the healthcare field, particularly those who work in mental health. They can offer advice, share their experiences, and may even refer you to opportunities within their organisations.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for potential interview questions by practising responses related to patient safety and crisis management. Being able to articulate your approach to handling sensitive situations will show your commitment to patient care.
We think you need these skills to ace Patient Safety Observer- 36 hours: 3/12 hours shifts 7p-7:30a, 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 think about how your skills and experiences align with the requirements.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience, particularly in patient care or safety roles. Emphasise any previous work with vulnerable populations or in high-stress environments.
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 skills such as communication, observation, and crisis management.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Boston Medical Center (BMC)
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you fully grasp the responsibilities of a Patient Safety Observer. Familiarise yourself with the importance of monitoring patients, especially those at risk of self-harm or suicide. This will help you answer questions confidently and demonstrate your commitment to patient safety.
✨Show Empathy and Communication Skills
During the interview, highlight your ability to communicate effectively and empathetically with patients. Share examples from your past experiences where you successfully interacted with individuals in distress, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your decision-making skills in emergency situations. Think about how you would handle various scenarios involving patient safety and be ready to explain your thought process clearly.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork and Reporting Skills
Emphasise your ability to work as part of a team and your understanding of the reporting structure within a healthcare setting. Be prepared to discuss how you would communicate significant changes in a patient's condition to the assigned RN promptly.
