Patient Safety Assistant - Contingent Variable Shift

PRINCIPLE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Receives report from the registered nurse as well as the previous sitter assigned to the patient. The patient will be visually observed at all times, including accompanying the patient to the bathroom and remaining with the patient when visitors are present. The PSA will notify (via call system) the RN when family/visitors arrive.
2. Provides constant observation of the patient and timely notification to the RN of patient behavior that may lead to unintended elopement, fall, or harm to themselves or others. Immediately reports to the RN any changes(s) in physical condition from initial report. 
- Must remain with the patient during the entire shift until scheduled relief arrives.
- Accompanies patient off floor for scheduled appointments, tests, and procedures only.
- Communicates effectively and appropriately with patients, families, nursing staff, physicians, etc.
- Responds and reacts to emergent situations in a calm and controlled manner in accordance with hospital policy and procedure.
- Assists the patient with contacting hospital staff, television channel selections, letter writing, and using telephone.
- Maintains core customer service skills and communication when challenged by agitated, delusional, or confused patients.
- Provide companionship to the patient and participate in activities such as reading to the patient, conversing, and playing cards.
3. Responsible for observation, setting up of tray for meals and assisting patient with eating as directed by the patient’s assigned RN. The PSA will assist unit staff with bathing and toileting. The PSA will assist patient with ambulating and positioning as directed by the patient’s assigned RN.
4. The PSA will report any observations related to the patient’s condition to the responsible RN via the call light system while remaining with the patient. 
5. PSAs may be assigned to observe/attend to more than one patient in the same room/area. This determination will be made by the Nurse Leadership and will be based on the patient’s condition.
6. Submit necessary documentation (i.e. PSA report sheets, room checks, etc.) to designated location/person, after signature by the responsible RN per business unit process. Additionally, maintaining logbooks and charging systems.
7. SUICIDE PRECAUTIONS ONLY— The PSA will assist the registered nurse in keeping the patient’s room free of objects that could potentially be harmful. Sharp objects such as razors, scissors, knives, glass bottles and mirrors are to be removed. Patient care items with potential for harm must be removed and the RN notified. The PSA must keep in constant eye contact with the patient. 
8. PSAs are not to engage in any personal activities such as homework. Use of personal cellular phones, iPods, or other electronic equipment is prohibited. Use of ear buds is prohibited. PSAs may engage in light reading when the patient is sleeping. 
9. Demonstrates understanding and proficiency of the use of multiple monitoring software programs (for Tele-Sitting only).
10.Maintains visual observation at all times. Verbally redirects patient, if appropriate, over digital 2-way audio device that is in patient room. Immediately summons the nursing staff if the patient requires assistance (for Tele-Sitting only).
11.Demonstrates the knowledge and skill necessary to provide the appropriate observation to the patient population requiring monitoring (for Tele-Sitting only).
12.Demonstrates safe work practice. Follows safety rules, works to prevent unsafe conditions and behaviors, and participates in organizational and department safety programs (for Tele-Sitting only).