Position Summary
As a Patient Observation Specialist at Watauga Medical Center, you will play a vital role in ensuring the safety and well-being of patients who require continuous observation. Working closely with nursing staff and other healthcare professionals, you will monitor patients at risk for falls, elopement, or other safety concerns, providing continuous observation and support as needed. Your dedication to patient safety and your ability to maintain a vigilant presence will contribute to the high standard of care provided at our facility. Key Responsibilities:

1. Conduct continuous observation of assigned patients, remaining alert and attentive to changes in patient behavior, condition, or environment.
2. Follow established protocols and guidelines for patient observation, including maintaining visual contact with the patient at all times and documenting observations accurately and in a timely manner.
3. Monitor patients for signs of agitation, confusion, or distress, and alert nursing staff or other appropriate personnel to any changes in patient status.
4. Assist with patient mobility and positioning as needed, ensuring patient comfort and safety at all times.
5. Collaborate with nursing staff and other members of the healthcare team to implement strategies for fall prevention, elopement prevention, and other safety measures based on individual patient needs.
6. Provide companionship and emotional support to patients during periods of observation, engaging in conversation and activities to promote a positive patient experience.
7. Respond promptly to patient requests for assistance, including assistance with toileting, hydration, and other basic needs.
8. Maintain a clean and organized patient environment, ensuring that patient rooms and common areas are free from hazards and clutter.
9. Adhere to all hospital policies, procedures, and safety protocols, including infection control practices and patient confidentiality guidelines.
10. Participate in ongoing training and education to enhance knowledge and skills related to patient observation techniques, crisis prevention, and de-escalation strategies.

For You:

• Compensation is commensurate with education and experience. Hiring compensation ranges from $15.00-$21.75 per hour.
• Eligible for differential and benefits (based on hours worked)
• Multiple Vacancies
  • x2 7:00am-7:00pm positions
  • x2 7:00pm-7:00am positions
  • x1 PRN position

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent required; additional education or training in healthcare or related field preferred.
• Previous experience in a healthcare setting, particularly in a role involving patient care or observation, preferred.
• Strong observational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to recognize subtle changes in patient behavior or condition.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with patients, families, and healthcare professionals.
• Compassionate and empathetic demeanor, with a commitment to providing patient-centered care and promoting a positive patient experience.
• Ability to remain calm and composed in stressful situations and respond calmly and appropriately to patient emergencies or behavioral crises.
• Basic knowledge of medical terminology and understanding of patient safety principles.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team and follow directions from nursing staff and other healthcare professionals.
• Flexibility to work various shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as needed to ensure coverage for patient observation services.

Working Conditions:

• This position requires working in patient care areas, including patient rooms, hallways, and common areas, where exposure to bloodborne pathogens and other infectious agents may occur.
• Patient Observation Specialists may be required to stand or sit for extended periods and maintain continuous visual contact with patients throughout the shift.
• The role may involve working rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, to provide 24/7 coverage for patient observation services.

About UNC Health Appalachian
It's official - UNC Health Appalachian earned an "A" in the fall 2023 Leapfrog Patient Safety Grades! UNC Health Appalachian, the leader for healthcare in the High Country, comprises three hospitals, 13 medical practices, Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center, The Rehabilitation Center, and Appalachian Regional Healthcare Foundation. UNC Health Appalachian stays committed to promoting health in the High Country, enhancing quality of life, and simply "making life better."
About UNC Health
UNC Health is a state entity and an affiliated enterprise of the University of North Carolina system, comprised of 14 hospitals, 18 hospital campuses and more than 500 clinics along with the clinical patient care programs of the UNC School of Medicine (SOM). It exists to improve the health and well-being of North Carolinians and others we serve and to further the teaching mission of the University of North Carolina SOM. Over the past three years, UNC Health has provided more than $400 million in uncompensated or charity care to the citizens of North Carolina. Our hospitals have received numerous awards and recognition for quality care, patient safety and the overall patient experience. For more information, please visit unchealth.org.
UNC Health Appalachian embraces diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status. We value a workforce that reflects a variety of backgrounds and perspectives, as it enhances our ability to provide outstanding care. We welcome and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences. UNC Health Appalachian is committed to providing a fair and inclusive hiring process and a workplace where all team members feel respected and empowered. If you require accommodations during the application process, please contact us.
Employment at UNC Health Appalachian is contingent upon successful completion of a background and drug screen.
For accommodations or additional information, contact recruitment@apprhs.org.