Patient Observer?

[MWest2011]

Hey guys and gals,

I just got asked to go for an interview for a "Patient Observer" position. Does anyone know what the general job responsibilities are for this position? Is it a good way to get a foot in the door for after I eventually become an RN? All in all, is it worth it?! LOL!

[amarilla, RN]

Just a guess, but it sounds like a patient sitter, (someone who sits with patients deemed to be potentially harmful to themselves or others.) Depending on the facility, the duties may likely include direct patient care, (hygiene, ADLs, repositioning, feeding, vitals, I&O recording, so on.)

The hospital where I work has sitters, but it's often a thankless and difficult way to spend a shift, and for less money than a floor tech earns to boot.

Honestly, I'd rather be a NA and be involved directly in patient care; in fact, I am.

Best,

Southern

[locolorenzo22, BSN, RN]

Depends...as a sitter, you often only have one patient to sit with...and it usually involves talking with family and the patient, reorienting the patient, preventing them from pulling out lines...etc. I personally feel that being a CNA gives you the exp to deal with many different patient types, versus just the "old confused" ones...but a job is a job. Don't hit the call bell for everything, but do hit it whenever you aren't sure about something...if you can step out for a moment to get water, a extra blanket, for the patient do so, but ONLY if the nurse gives you the ok when you first see them. Ask "if they need something simple(such as water, blanket, extra supply), can I step out and get that for them, or do you want me to just hit the call light?" That little step can help a lot....