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Patient Observation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Compass Group

PATIENT OBSERVATION ASSISTANT

Mequon, WI · On-site

$16/hr

Prior patient observation experience preferred. High school diploma required. * Fixed Pay Rate: $16.00 per hour. If serving others is in your blood and you thrive on helping people heal, TouchPoint ...

Compass Group

PATIENT OBSERVATION ASSISTANT

Sumter, SC · On-site

$18/hr

* We are hiring immediately for full time and part time PATIENT OBSERVATION ASSISTANT positions. * Location : Prisma Health Tuomey - 129 North Washington Street, Sumter, SC 29150. Note: online ...

Compass Group

PATIENT OBSERVATION ASSISTANT

Austin, TX · On-site

$19/hr

Prior patient observation experience preferred. High school degree or GED required. * Perks: No experience necessary! Paid training offered! * Pay Range: $16.00 per hour to $19.00 per hour. If ...

Compass Group

PATIENT OBSERVATION ASSISTANT

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$18.36/hr

* We are hiring immediately for full time and part time PATIENT OBSERVATION ASSISTANT positions. * Location : Inova Fair Oaks Hospital - 3600 Joseph Siewick Drive, Fairfax, VA 22033. Note: online ...

Compass Group

PATIENT OBSERVATION LEAD

Kyle, TX · On-site

$21.50/hr

Prior patient observation and supervisory experience required. * Pay Range: $18.50 per hour to $21.50 per hour. If serving others is in your blood and you thrive on helping people heal, TouchPoint is ...

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Patient Observation information

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How much do patient observation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for patient observation in the United States is $16.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Patient Observation Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Patient Observation Technician, you need attention to detail, basic patient care knowledge, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hospital safety protocols, electronic health record (EHR) systems, and basic monitoring equipment is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring patient safety, accurately reporting changes, and supporting clinical teams in delivering quality care.

What are Patient Observation jobs?

Patient Observation jobs involve monitoring patients in healthcare settings to ensure their safety and well-being. Individuals in these roles, often called patient sitters or observers, watch over patients who may be at risk of harming themselves or others, or who require close supervision for medical reasons. They report any changes in a patient's condition to nursing staff and may assist with basic non-medical tasks. Patient observers play a crucial role in preventing falls, injuries, and other incidents within hospitals and care facilities.

How to become a patient observer?

To become a patient observer, typically you need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions may require healthcare-related training or certification such as CPR. Experience in healthcare settings, strong observational skills, and the ability to monitor patients safely are important for this role.

What does a patient observer do?

A patient observer monitors patients who may be at risk of self-harm or injury, ensuring their safety by observing their behavior and reporting any concerning actions to medical staff. They often work in healthcare settings such as hospitals or mental health facilities and may require training in patient safety and observation techniques. The role typically involves continuous or periodic monitoring, documentation, and adherence to safety protocols.

Can you get hired as a PCT with no experience?

Patient Care Technicians (PCTs) often do not require prior experience, as many employers provide on-the-job training and certification programs. However, having basic healthcare knowledge, a high school diploma, and relevant certifications like CPR can improve job prospects. Entry-level positions are available for those new to the healthcare field.

What is the difference between Patient Observation vs Patient Care Assistant?

AspectPatient ObservationPatient Care Assistant
CertificationsBasic training, CPR certificationCPR, First Aid, sometimes CNA certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, long-term care facilitiesHospitals, nursing homes, assisted living
Job ResponsibilitiesMonitoring patient vitals, reporting changesAssisting with daily activities, basic care
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare facilities focusing on patient safetyDirect patient support and care

Patient Observation focuses on monitoring patients' health status and reporting changes, often requiring basic certifications. Patient Care Assistants provide hands-on support with daily activities and basic care tasks. While both roles work in healthcare settings, Patient Observation emphasizes monitoring, whereas Patient Care Assistants are involved in direct patient care.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Patient observation roles typically do not pay $2000 a day; such high daily rates are more common in specialized medical consulting, high-level executive positions, or certain freelance healthcare services. Most healthcare jobs, including patient observation, offer salaries based on hourly or annual wages rather than daily rates, unless in temporary or contract roles with high compensation. Achieving $2000 daily pay generally requires advanced qualifications, extensive experience, or working in niche, high-demand fields.

What are some common challenges faced by Patient Observation staff, and how can they be managed?

Patient Observation staff often encounter challenges such as maintaining constant vigilance, managing unpredictable patient behaviors, and balancing the need for patient safety with respecting privacy. These challenges can be managed by receiving thorough training in de-escalation techniques, using clear communication with the healthcare team, and practicing self-care to prevent fatigue. Working closely with nurses and other clinical staff also helps address concerns quickly and ensures the best care for patients.
More about Patient Observation jobs
What cities are hiring for Patient Observation jobs? Cities with the most Patient Observation job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Patient Observation jobs? The most popular types of Patient Observation jobs are:
What states have the most Patient Observation jobs? States with the most job openings for Patient Observation jobs include:
Patient Observation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Patient Observation job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Locum Tenens, 90% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,764 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Patient Observation Specialist

UNC Health Appalachian

Boone, NC • On-site

$16/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Patient Observation Specialist
Location: Boone, North Carolina | Full-Time | Nights 6:45pm to 7:00am
Why You'll Love Working Here
As a Patient Observation Specialist at UNC Health Appalachian, you play a vital role in maintaining patient safety and supporting compassionate, patient-centered care. Working closely with nursing and interdisciplinary teams, you help create a secure and supportive environment for patients while gaining valuable healthcare experience in a collaborative setting.
  • Compensation: $16.00 per hour, based on experience, education, and internal equity
  • Differentials: Eligible for shift differentials when applicable
  • Benefits: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage; retirement plan with employer match; paid time off; tuition reimbursement; paid parental leave; wellness incentives; and employee discounts
What You'll Do as a Patient Observation Specialist
  • Provide continuous visual and auditory observation of assigned patients to ensure safety and prevent falls, injuries, or adverse events
  • Monitor and document patient behavior and condition, reporting changes promptly to nursing staff
  • Assist with basic patient needs including positioning, feeding, and hygiene under nursing direction
  • Maintain a clean and safe environment in accordance with infection control policies
  • Communicate compassionately and effectively with patients, families, and healthcare team members
  • Support implementation of individualized patient care plans
  • Assist with patient transport within the hospital as needed
  • Adhere to all hospital policies, procedures, and regulatory standards
  • Participate in ongoing education and professional development
Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred (required for Level 3 and 4)
  • Previous healthcare or patient observation experience preferred
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) from the American Heart Association required at hire
  • CPI (Crisis Prevention Intervention) required within one (1) year of hire
  • Strong observational, communication, and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to remain calm and focused in high-stress situations
  • Compassionate, patient-centered approach to care
  • Basic knowledge of medical terminology and patient care procedures preferred
  • Familiarity with electronic health records (EHR) systems is a plus
Physical & Work Environment
  • Prolonged standing, walking, and sitting
  • Ability to lift, move, and assist patients as needed
  • Frequent manual dexterity and close observation
  • Direct patient contact with exposure to bodily fluids
  • Exposure to infectious diseases and hazardous materials
  • Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Flexible scheduling, including nights, weekends, and holidays
What Sets Us Apart
  • Career Growth: Entry point into healthcare with advancement opportunities through UNC Health Appalachian's Career Pathways Program
  • Impactful Work: Directly contribute to patient safety and positive outcomes across three community hospitals and specialty centers
  • Community & Lifestyle: Boone offers outdoor adventure, culture, and small-town charm in the Blue Ridge Mountains
  • Inclusive Culture: We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring every team member feels respected and supported

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 arhsrecruitment@unchealth.unc.edu.

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