Patient Companion

Position Summary

The Patient Care Companion functions under the direction of the registered Nurse responsible for the Patient's care and follows the Patient's individualized needs. Nursing care is provided to the Patient by the nursing staff.

• Communicate any change of assignment to the nursing office.
• Perform patient observation as assigned.
• Document Patient's behavior using the appropriate form/tool.
• Obtain appropriate information at the start of the shift regarding care from a Registered Nurse.
• Adhere to patient conversation guidelines.
• Monitor the Patient's safety and maintain a safe environment as directed by the registered Nurse; e.g., maintain safety position in the room when appropriate, always keep patients in sight.
• Monitor patient for escalating behavior.
• Accompany the Patient to the bathroom and tests as needed.
• Demonstrate proficiency with the use of bed alarms.
• Place the Patient's clothing and belongings in the Patient's closet, away from the Patient.
• Demonstrate the skills and judgment necessary to provide direct care to patients under the direct supervision of licensed personnel.
• Observe and report the Patient's status and needs to the Nurse.
• Remain on duty until relieved by oncoming coverage or the Nurse discontinues coverage.
• May be assigned to watch patients at risk for suicide.

• Years of
  
  Experience:
  
  Entry Level.
• Language
  
  Skills:
  
  Proficient in English, both verbally and written.

• Demonstrate proper body mechanics in all functions.
• Understand individual roles/responsibilities in the event of a hospital code (e.g., Code Green, Code Red).
• Perform proper hand washing per CDC guidelines.
• Safeguard the privacy and security of patient information. The employee complies with policies and procedures relating to the hospital's privacy and security programs.
• Bring potential compliance issues to a manager, supervisor, director, or VP.
• Utilize Chain of Command to communicate any identified patient or staff safety risks.
• Report patient status to oncoming staff in a respectful, professional manner.
• Convey respect for values, preferences, and expressed needs of the Patient and family.
• Communicate and collaborate effectively with patients and families to promote Patient health and well-being.
• Interact with sensitivity in delivering care/services to diverse populations as needed.
• Report to work in proper uniform per departmental standards and hospital policy.
• Maintain a professional, courteous attitude toward the Patient, co-workers, and all departments daily.
• Must be able to work at least one weekend shift per week.
• Must be able to wear an N95 mask when assisting patients with respirator‑airborne infections.