Sitter (PRN)

General Summary of Position
Provides one-on-one observation of selected patients for the purpose of identifying behaviors which are potentially hazardous to self or others.

Location: MedStar St. Mary's Hospital

Status: PRN (as-needed)

Schedule: Rotating weekends and shifts; 6:45am-3:15pm, 2:45pm-11:15pm, 10:45pm-7:15am

PRN positions are generally not eligible for benefits.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Uses safety measures for patient and self in accordance with protocol.
• Performs direct observation of patients for the purpose of identification of behaviors that are potentially hazardous to self or others and reports such observations to appropriate personnel in appropriate time frame.
• Communicates with patients and encourages casual patient verbalization.
• Participates in minor diversion activities such as reading to the patient. Assists unit staff in preventing patients from climbing out of bed by providing appropriate diversion activities.
• Remains attentive to the patient at all times unless relieved of duty by the patient care staff.
• Documents patient activity in electronic health record as appropriate.
• Notifies unit staff if verbal reminders and diversion are unsuccessful in distracting patient.
• Escalates patient and safety concerns to RN and Nurse Techs.

Minimal Qualifications
Education

• High School Diploma or GED required

Experience

• 3 months of related experience preferred

Licenses and Certifications

• CPR - Cardiac Pulmonary Resuscitation (includes BLS and NRP) for healthcare providers from either the American Heart Association (AHA) or American Red Cross within 90 Days required
• Additional unit/specialty certifications may vary by department or business unit.