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Patient Observation Assistant Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Patient Care Technician - STL ER

Anoka, MN · On-site

$17.75 - $24.50/hr

Observe for skin breakdown and provide preventative care measures * Obtain and accurately document vital signs and patient information in the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) * Assist with patient ...

Showing results 21-40

Patient Observation Assistant information

See Minnesota salary details

$11

$21

$60

How much do patient observation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for patient observation assistant in Minnesota is $21.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $20.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a patient observation assistant?

Patient Observation Assistants are healthcare workers responsible for monitoring patients who require close supervision, often due to risks such as falls, confusion, or self-harm. They observe patients’ behavior, alert nurses or medical staff to any changes, and help ensure a safe environment. Their role is crucial in supporting nursing staff and maintaining patient safety, particularly in hospitals or long-term care facilities. They do not provide direct medical care but are essential for preventing accidents and responding quickly to emergencies.

How does a patient observation assistant typically collaborate with nursing staff and other healthcare professionals?

Patient Observation Assistants work closely with nurses and other healthcare team members to ensure patient safety, especially for individuals who may be at risk of falls or require continuous supervision. They regularly communicate observations and any changes in patient behavior or condition to the nursing staff, enabling timely interventions. This collaboration fosters a supportive environment where everyone’s input helps maintain high-quality patient care and safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a patient observation assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Patient Observation Assistant, you need a basic understanding of patient care, strong attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hospital safety protocols, patient monitoring systems, and standard reporting tools is commonly required. Excellent communication, patience, and situational awareness are crucial soft skills for effectively supporting patients and collaborating with healthcare teams. These skills are vital to ensure patient safety, timely reporting of changes, and the overall well-being of those under observation.

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

AspectPatient Observation AssistantPatient Care Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training in patient observationHigh school diploma; certification or training in patient care
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, long-term care facilitiesHospitals, nursing homes, rehab centers
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare facilities focusing on patient monitoringBroader patient care roles including basic clinical tasks
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles related to patient monitoringComparing patient support roles in healthcare

The Patient Observation Assistant primarily focuses on monitoring and reporting patient status, often requiring basic training. In contrast, the Patient Care Technician has a broader scope, including assisting with daily activities and basic clinical procedures. Both roles are vital in healthcare settings, but the Patient Care Technician typically involves more hands-on patient care and may require additional certifications.

How to become a patient observation assistant?

To become a patient observation assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may require training in patient care or basic medical procedures. Relevant skills include communication, attention to detail, and the ability to monitor patients safely; some positions may also require certification in CPR or first aid. On-the-job training is common, and experience in healthcare or caregiving can be beneficial.

What does a patient observation assistant do?

A patient observation assistant monitors patients' conditions, records vital signs, and reports any changes to medical staff. They work in healthcare settings such as hospitals or clinics, often assisting with patient safety and comfort under supervision. Strong communication skills and attention to detail are essential for this role.

What are popular job titles related to Patient Observation Assistant jobs in Minnesota?

For Patient Observation Assistant jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Patient Observation Assistant jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Patient Observation Assistant jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Patient Observation Assistant jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Patient Observation Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Patient Observation Assistant job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 58% Full Time, and 39% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,746 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Nursing Station Technician (NST)- Outpatient Observation

Fairview Health Services

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

$23.39 - $31.33/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Fairview Health Services rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 250 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

128th of 891 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Job Overview
Fairview is looking for a Nursing Station Technician (NST) to join our Outpatient Observation team at the University of MN Medical Center East Bank Hospital in Minneapolis, MN.
The NST is responsible for assisting the professional caregiver in the delivery of patient care, transporting patient and / or equipment, setting up and maintaining patient rooms, reordering and stocking supplies. Performs a wide range of clerical, transcription, and maintenance of patient care unit desk area functions. Coordinates the flow of communication on a patient care unit. The NST does not work autonomously but under the direction of the professional nurse. They may or may not be given a patient care assignment based on unit needs and the discretion of the manager / charge nurse.
Schedule: This position is a 0.70 FTE (56 hours per two-week pay period) with 8-hour evening shifts 3pm-11:30pm with an every other weekend rotation.
Job Description
  • Facilitates timely flow of communication on the patient care area to ensure the exchange of information and to promote the coordination of services.
  • Promptly answers the telephone identifying self and patient care area, asks questions to clarify information, and consistently follows through on all messages in a timely and courteous manner.
  • Coordinates activities of the desk area to provide prompt, accurate and courteous handling of communication. Consistently answers patient intercom promptly and relays patient requests in a timely manner.
  • Coordinates the scheduling of tests, lab work, and other patient and department procedures, arranges appropriate transport and assists with transport. Optimally uses EHR.
  • Prepares charts for discharge and transfers.
  • Prepares and completes vital informative sources for specific care area (e.g. brainboard, census information, computer information). Assigns and maintains unit communication technology (pagers, ascom phones).
  • Responsible for the accurate, timely transcription of physician's orders.
  • Follows the crucial steps for timely and accurate transcription of physician's orders as required by recognizing and order needing transcription, ordering vital services, tests, equipment, and signing off order per procedure.
  • Demonstrates familiarity with medical terminology and abbreviations and utilizes accurate abbreviations and symbols per procedures.
  • Demonstrates interpersonal skills by transcribing physician orders based on priorities and by following a detailed routine.
  • Responsible for the maintenance of desk area and patient supplies and equipment according to designated standards.
  • Orders individual patient supplies as advised by a nurse or as indicated in physician orders.
  • Notifies appropriate department per procedure for equipment requiring maintenance and follows through on status of equipment as vital.
  • Demonstrates general knowledge of cost containment and awareness of cost control by following designated standards of the patient care area.
  • Maintains safe, clean and efficient patient care areas.
  • Participates in orientation of new staff (e.g. Nursing staff, physicians and students) on the patient care unit.
  • Provides basic patient care by performing routine duties to include: personal grooming, bathing, toileting, feeding, skin care needs (clean and sterile dressing changes), applying ointments / creams; oral hygiene; specimen collection / testing; position / ambulating; changing linens, and promptly answers call lights.
  • Assists nurses in supervising patient condition

Required Qualifications (Must have BLS certification and ONE of the following):
  • Six months of recent hands-on patient care experience (acute, long-term, or home care)
  • Enrolled in an LPN, RN, or NP program (with at least 1 completed clinical semester)
  • Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) on the MN Registry
  • Completed Fairview's OnTrack Nursing Assistant training program

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Previous experience as a Health Unit Coordinator, Nursing Assistant, or other related experience

Keywords: CNA, NA, NST, Certified Nursing Assistant, Personal Care Attendant
Benefit Overview
Fairview offers a generous benefits package, including but not limited to medical, dental, vision, PTO/vacation and Safe and Sick Time, tuition reimbursement, retirement and more! Please follow this link for additional information: https://www.fairview.org/benefits/afscme
Compensation Disclaimer
The posted compensation range corresponds to the minimum and maximum pay rates outlined in your union agreement for the respective job classifications at the time of job posting. An individual's pay rate within this range may be influenced by various factors, including FTE, skills, knowledge, educational background, and qualifying experience as specified in the contract. If your role is eligible for a sign-on bonus, the bonus program that is approved and in place at the time of offer, is what will be honored.
EEO Statement
EEO/Vet/Disabled: All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to any lawfully protected status

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About Fairview Health Services

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Fairview Health Services is an industry-leading, award-winning nonprofit that offers an entire network of healthcare services. Fairview is one part of M Health Fairview, a partnership between the University of Minnesota, M Physicians and Fairview Health Services. Together, we combine the University's deep history of clinical innovation and training with Fairview's extensive roots in community medicine. Our care portfolio includes community hospitals, academic hospitals, primary and specialty care clinics, senior facilities, facilitated living centers, rehabilitation centers, home health care services, counseling, pharmacies and benefit management services.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US