Job DescriptionMAIN FUNCTION: Provide observation to patients age 16 and over who require continuous observation. The primary purpose of this job position is to render routine daily observation and restorative care and services to maintain the safety of the patient in accordance with the patient’s rights and care plan and under the direction of a professional nurse. This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties you will be required to perform; the omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or is a logical assignment to the position. The Sitter reports directly to the Unit Director or designee. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: PERSONNEL FUNCTIONS:
The sitter reports to the charge nurse on arrival to the unit.
Personal appearance standards are followed for sitter attire.
While the sitter’s preference is considered when assigning breaks and lunch times, overall patient needs take precedence over individual requests. The sitter may not leave for break without Registered Nurse (RN) permission and the provision of continuous monitoring during the sitter's absence.
The sitter may not make or receive personal phone calls while on duty. The use of personal electronic devices while performing the duties of a sitter is strictly forbidden. In the case of an emergency, the sitter will notify the RN that he/she needs to take a break to make a telephone call and wait for someone to relieve him/her. Any personal calls will be made only on official break time and away from patient care areas.
Sitters are never to sleep while on duty.
Sitters may not have personal reading material while on duty.
PATIENT CARE FUNCTIONS:
The sitter may be present and overhear discussions related to the medical condition of the patient. These conversations are confidential and should not be repeated or shared with anyone.
The sitter does not engage in conversations with the patient regarding his/her medical condition or plan of care nor does he/she offer suggestions. The sitter will refer the patient to the nurse or physician to answer any questions regarding care.
The sitter monitors the patient's verbalizations and immediately informs the nurse if the patient expresses any idea or intention to hurt self/others or leave without physician's permission (elopement or Against Medical Advice {AMA}).
Sitters observe the patient and maintain a safe environment, and as delegated by the RN, may provide care to the patient that does not interfere with the ability to maintain continuous visual contact.
a. Clinical Assistants assigned as sitters will complete all aspects of ADL’s for all patients in the room. This includes but is not limited to the following: vital signs, bathing, feeding, toileting, ROM and restraints as outlined in the restraint protocol.
b. Where applicable, agency staff may provide care within the scope of their regular practice and competency level.
Sitters remain in the patient’s room with an unobstructed view of the patient. Patient requests (that the sitter cannot accommodate/respond to) for assistance are promptly referred to the nursing staff via the SpectraLink phone or call light/intercom system.
The sitter accompanies the patient for any clinical tests or procedures off the unit. The sitter remains within an arm's length distance of the patient unless otherwise directed by the person performing the test or procedure.
The sitter may be assigned to monitor two patients in the same room. The sitter positions him/herself to maintain an unobstructed view of both patients. Additional staff must be provided if patient activity (e.g., patient ambulating in the hall, patient in the restroom or patient transported off the unit) prevents the sitter from simultaneously monitoring both patients.
While on duty, a sitter may not leave the patient’s room without RN approval and/or relief.
a. If the sitter is instructed to leave the room temporarily while the patient receives care, he/she waits outside the door so that he/she can resume duty without delay.
b. If the patient’s visitor requests that the sitter leave the room temporarily, the sitter must first obtain RN approval.
Sitter should turn on/off or adjust the station or volume on a radio or television only at the patient’s request. The volume on the radio/television should be adjusted so as not to disturb other patients.
If the patient is restrained, the sitter:
a. May not remove or adjust restraints, except for in an emergency, or if instructed to do so by an RN. Notify the RN if the patient complains of discomfort or attempts to remove the restraint(s).
b. Must ensure that the patient's dignity is preserved: patient is covered, curtains pulled, door adjusted to provide privacy.
c. Must ensure that essential care needs are addressed (e.g., if upper limbs are restrained assist patient with facial tissue use, etc.)
In the event of an emergency or a sudden change in the patient’s condition/behavior (e.g., medical emergency or escape attempt), the sitter is to notify the RN immediately by calling out “I need help in here”, in a very loud voice. Also put the call light on to alert nursing staff that help is needed in that room. Other observations are reported to the RN on a regular basis.
Sitters may feed patients upon assessment and delegation by an RN.
SAFETY AND SANITATION:
Operates all equipment in a safe manner after receiving in-service on how to use equipment.
Reports defective equipment to Unit Director/Charge Nurse immediately.
Follows policies and procedures related to Standard Precautions.
Keeps patient’s rooms, utility rooms, shower/tub rooms and corridors neat and in order.
Follows ArnotHealth requirements for pre-placement examinations and immunizations.
Follows emergency protocols
STAFF DEVELOPMENT:
Attends continuing educational programs designed to enhance knowledge of the care of patients.
Participates in DNV and OSHA mandated in-services annually.
Promotes and fosters the mission and philosophy of the Hospital during performance of job duties and community activities.
Actively supports and participates in the Hospital Continuous Quality Improvement endeavors.
Performs other related duties as required.
PATIENT’S RIGHTS FUNCTIONS:
Maintains confidentiality of all residents care information.
Maintains the rights of all residents to independent expression, decision, personal freedom, dignity, and freedom from abuse or social isolation.
Provides privacy for patient / knocks before entering the patient’s room, closes door or curtain before performing procedures.
Reports patient’s complaints or grievances to Charge Nurse as soon as possible.
OTHER:
Is responsible for attending all annual mandatory educational programs as required by position.
Employee understands and demonstrates the importance of satisfying the needs of the customer/patient by interacting with him/her in a friendly and caring way, being attentive to the customer’s needs, both psychologically and physically, and by taking the initiative to maintain communication with the customer in order to provide a secure and pleasant experience with the Arnot Health.
It is understood that this job description lists typical duties for the classification and is not to be considered inclusive of all duties which may be assigned.
EDUCATION:
High school graduate preferred.
EXPERIENCE:
Previous experience or job knowledge is required.
CARDIOPULMONARY RESUSCITATION (CPR) REQUIREMENTS:
BLS CPR required within 90 days of hire date.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Good physical and mental health is required because long periods of standing and walking may be involved.
Also, lifting of the equipment and physical environment may be required.
Manual dexterity is necessary for feeding patient upon delegation to do so.
Visual and aural acuity are required to make adequate observations of patient’s condition.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
Demonstrates understanding, patience and tact in dealing with residents and fellow workers.
Abides by and supports organizational policies and standards.
Trustworthy in safeguarding confidential information.
Willingness to work hours that best meet the needs of a specific service.
Appearance to be neat and professional at all times.
This position requires limited access to the medical record, which includes charting on the flow sheet,
ADL and graphic.
EXPOSURE CATEGORY:
Category I. Tasks that involve exposure to blood, body fluids or tissues.
Requirements
