Continuous Observer-Nights-6033

Staff Position Description

Position Title: Continuous Observer             Positioin Code: ContObs-6033

Department: Nursing                                  Safety Sensitive:          Yes            

Reports to: Department Director                  Exempt Status:             No

                                                                       

Position Purpose:

All KHI employees are expected to perform their respective tasks and duties in such a way that supports KHI’s vision of providing the region’s best clinical care and patient service through an environment that fosters respect for others and pride in performance.

Adheres to all areas of the KHI Behavioral Expectations Agreement and Social Media Guidelines; Supports/embraces KHI’s Mission, Vision, and values, as well as promote a positive image of KHI; Acts as a role model to staff; Maintains patient and staff confidentiality; Maintains a professional appearance and manner at all times; Supports a healthy work environment through skilled communication, true collaboration, effective decision making, appropriate staffing and meaningful recognition. 

 

All care is provided with kindness and compassion.

 

Key Responsibilities [List of material responsibilities and essentials duties which must be completed in achieving the objectives of the position]

Under the direction of a registered nurse (RN), provide continuous visual and proximal contact with the patient(s), including but not limited to in-room observation, provision of basic comfort services, maintaining a safe environment, accompanying patient during transportation for tests/procedures, and documentation on appropriate forms.

 

Patient and Family Experience

• Provide constant one-on-one observation to patients who are confused, at risk for causing injury to themselves or others, or exhibit behavior that is unpredictable or difficult to manage.
• In compliance with training, policy, and procedure, assist with responding to the needs of patients promptly, including politely requesting assistance of appropriate staff.
• Respect Patient Rights, privacy and dignity as much as can be safely accommodated.

Patient Safety

·         Utilize interventions identified in training to support the maintenance of a safe, therapeutic environment with a focus on the prevention of self-harm and/or injury.

·         Using the appropriate resources and processes, notify clinical staff of any change in patient status or appearance.

• Stay with patient at all times, even in the event of an emergency.
• Maintain timely, accurate documentation regarding patient behaviors and actions.
• Comply with all Federal, State, organizational, and departmental policies and procedures.

 

Qualifications [Statements regarding minimum educational and experience qualifications, required proficiencies with specialized knowledge, computer proficiencies, military service, required certifications, etc.]

• Must be at least 18 years of age 
• The ability to follow directions, written and verbal. 
• Verbal skills, hearing, sight and manual dexterity required.   
• Must be comfortable working with a diverse population and communicate with compassion.

 

Preferences [Preferred attributes for the position which are not absolutely required in the minimum qualifications (i.e., multi-lingual, master’s degree)]

·         Education: High School graduate or GED preferred.

·         Previous experience working in a healthcare or customer service setting

·         CPI training

 

Special Position Requirements [Optional section: any travel, security, risk, hazard or related special conditions which apply to the position]

EXPOSURE CATEGORY I:  Expected duties have routine potential for exposure to blood, body fluids or tissues.

Other potential hazard(s): possible exposure to hostile individuals.

 

Work Requirements [Optional section: work requirements for physical or other important issues which relate to the job]

·         Able to communicate appropriately with a diverse population.

·         Able to be exposed to patients with infectious diseases.

·         Able to stand, walk, stretch, reach, and or bend for 3-5 hours per day.

• Able to sit and focus on patient observation for long periods of time, including the entire shift.
• Able to see, hear, and work in a stressful environment.

 Created/Revised: 10/23/2018