Patient Sitter/Care Companion

GENERAL SUMMARY :

Under direct supervision of the department manager, clinical leader or charge nurse, observes and monitors the condition of patients.

Provides patients in need of supervision compassionate and caring attention while ensuring a safe environment.

CORPORATE PHILOSOPHY :

It is the obligation of each employee of Edward - Elmhurst Health to abide by and promote the mission and values of the System to ensure that excellent services are delivered with compassion.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES : (The following duties and responsibilities are all essential job functions, as defined by the ADA, except those that begin with the word "May.")

• Protects the patient’s safety.
• Positions themselves in their assigned patient’s room to maintain constant visual observation of the patient. Ensures patient is never alone or out of sight of a direct caregiver unless instructed otherwise.
• Accompanies the patient for testing or procedures and remains with patient unless directed otherwise by the person performing the test or procedure.
• Observes the patient for increased anxiety, escalating behavior, changes in mental condition. and immediately relays this information to the nurse.
• Listens to patient for signs of worry or concern or if patient symptoms are worsening. Immediately relays information to the staff so that further action can be taken if necessary.
• Provides comfort and compassion for the patient while ensuring their safety. Follows staff directives as it relates to patient mobility, etc.

and what to observe, what to report and to whom this information should be reported.

• Maintains accurate and legible records as directed.
• Maintains professional behavior while sitting with patient; i.e., no use of personal cell phones, sleeping, engaging in conversation with other staff members or leaving patient unattended.
• Educates patient and family as to role and expectations of unit as directed by the nurse.
• Demonstrates appropriate communication skills and behaviors with patient as required.
• Maintains the privacy and security of all confidential and protected health information. Uses and discloses only that information which is necessary to perform the function of the job.
• Regular on-time & on-site attendance, due to patient care needs, is an essential function of this position.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED :

Education, Experience and / or Skills Required : High School Diploma or GED Ability to read, to exchange information with patients and others, and / or to do basic arithmetic.

Basic level of analytical ability to read and understand simple instructions, enter data into logs, charts, records, maintain files, etc.

Basic level of communication skills to exchange information on factual matters, understand and transmit instructions, and perform other duties that require basic communication skills.

Patience and compassion for such tasks as listening to patient worries & concerns. Physical stamina to remain alert, awake and attentive to patient, regardless of assigned shift.

Care Companion class completion, which includes on-the-job training, within two weeks of position start date. Must be available to work assigned shifts.

Work is performed under close supervision or in accordance with specific and detailed instruction or procedures. Work is generally performed in a clinical environment where employee must adhere to unit and patient-specific safety and infection control precautions.

Work requires the ability to lift and position patients, and the ability to work in a confined area for two or more hours.