Patient Sitters assist in the provision of a safe and clean environment for patients who are deemed at risk for additional injury, due to physiologic, mental and/or behavioral limitations, has made recent suicide attempt, or is expressing suicidal ideations. A Patient Sitter is initiated by a physician order and/or nursing judgement.  Under the supervision of an RN, a Patient Sitter provides: 

Continuous observation and surveillance of assigned patients.  The first line of action to verbally re direct the patient from engaging in risky behavior and summons additional help as needed.

The “On call sitter” position commits to 48 hours of call per 6 weeks.  On call blocks are scheduled in 4 hour increments with up to 40 hours of commitment per sitter per week available per sitter position.                

KNOWLEDGE/EXPERIENCE: This position requires a person who exhibits a positive attitude, excellent communication skills, the ability to work productively under stress, and who displays a professional demeanor and is able to prioritize workloads. The employee in this position must be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide a safe environment and therapeutic milieu based on the age of the patients served.  The employee must demonstrate knowledge of the principles of growth and development over the life span, possess the ability to communicate observed changes in patient’s behavior/activity to the RN. This job description will change from time to time as tasks, organization, and technology changes. 

EDUCATION: High school graduate or equivalent required.  CNA/EMS certificate preferred.  Mental Health experience preferred. 

LICENSE/CERTIFICATION/REGISTRY: BLS and Secure Training are all required prior to sitting with a patient. 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Obtains verbal report from the patient’s nurse to include information regarding: The patient’s identified care needs including ambulation limitations, diagnosis, visual, auditory, or language barriers, course of action for redirection of patient as needed  and any special consideration (NPO, bed alarms, etc.)  What patient activity and behavior needs to be communicated to the assigned nurse The Patient Sitter should always maintain line of sight with the patient.  No electronic devices (Phone, tablet, ear buds) that distract the sitter from the observation duties can be used by the sitter while observing the patient even if the patient is asleep and/or sedated.  Paper reading material is allowed. St. Peter Health computers are to be used for documentation in the electronic health record and must be “locked” between documentation events.  May transport patient for testing and procedures off the unit but must accompany and remain within arm’s length of patient unless otherwise directed by the person performing the test or procedure. Provides for patient comfort, safety, and satisfaction.  Maintains patient environment in a safe and orderly manner.  Completes a new Sitter Checklist at each handoff and documented in the electronic medical record to ensure patient safety while care is provided at St. Peter’s Health.  Accurately and legibly records data collected and notifies RN of any untoward events, i.e. behavioral changes, violent behavior etc.   Patient Sitters ensure all patient belongings are secured in a location where the patient does not have access i.e. locked locker or outside of the patient’s room.  The Patient Sitter needs to document every 15 minutes on the Patient Observation Rounds sheet.  Functions cooperatively as a team member.  Responds as directed by responsible nurse to changing patient/unit needs.  If an emergency situation should arise the Patient Sitter should stay with the patient and call for help or use the patient call light.  Communicates in a professional manner and demonstrates respect for patient, families/significant other and other health care members. Offers support and feedback to peers and staff.  Applies principles of caring and healing interactions with patients, families, and colleagues.  Seeks and supports opportunities for professional growth and development. Offers consistent and visible support to team members. Complies with all St. Peter’s Health rules, regulations, policies, and nursing standards. Strives to achieve excellence of service. Verbalizes understanding and responsibilities during all St. Peter’s Health Emergency codes.  The assigned patient remains the sitter’s PRIMARY responsibility at all times.  Responsible for honest behavior in all matters.  To the best of the employee’s knowledge and understanding, complies with all Federal and State laws and regulations.  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. Performs related duties as assigned which includes transporting patients as needed; discharges, transfers, etc.