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Patient Observation Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

... Patient Observation, Facilities Management, Healthcare Technology Solutions, Ambulatory Services, and Sterile Processing. Job Summary Summary: As an Administrative Assistant, you will provide ...

... observation of patients in order to keep the patient from harm. Required Education: High school ... 30-22.19/hourly Assist patients with personal care (washing hands/face, oral care, bathing ...

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... observation of patients in order to keep the patient from harm. Required Education: High school ... 30-22.19/hourly Assist patients with personal care (washing hands/face, oral care, bathing ...

New

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Patient Observation Assistant information

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$11

$21

$61

How much do patient observation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for patient observation assistant in Virginia is $21.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $21.20 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 the most commonly searched types of Patient Observation jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Patient Observation jobs in Virginia are:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Patient Observation Assistant job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, and 44% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,294 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Patient Care Technician - Med / Surg Observation

Sentara Healthcare

Norfolk, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Sentara Health rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 412 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

530th of 891 rated healthcare providers


Job description

City/State
Norfolk, VA
Work Shift
Third (Nights)
Overview:
Sentara is currently hiring a Patient Care Technician to work at Sentara Leigh Hospital located in Norfolk on our Observation Unit.
Hours/Shift:
Full-time, nightshift, approximately 6pm to 6am
Department/Position Overview:
On our 24-bed unit, you will have the opportunity to encourage patients on their recovery journey and have a long-term impact in a short amount of time. We hope you join our team that Improves Health Every Day!
Patient Care Technicians are unlicensed staff members who are accountable to, and work under the direct supervision of a professional nurse to implement delegated aspects of nursing care. Provide patient care, support the admissions and discharge process, and comply with patient safety practices under the direction of the professional nurse. Observe patients' physical, mental, and emotional conditions and report any change to the nurse.
Education
High School Diploma or Equivalent
Certification/Licensure
  • American Health Associate BLS Certification required within 90 days of hire.
  • Minimum requirements: Must have one of the following
    • Sentara Care Partner Certification Program, or
    • Successful completion of the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), or
    • National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA), or
    • National Patient Care Technician (NCPCT), or
    • Completion of US Navy Hospital Corps School, or
    • Emergency Services to include EMR, EMS, EMT, AEMT and Paramedic, or
    • Current student enrolled in a clinical program (beyond prerequisites) having completed at least one semester of RN, LPN, RT or PT, or
    • Current work experience within last three years as a PCT or Nursing Assistant.

Experience
One year of prior health care experience preferred.
Benefits
Sentara offers an attractive array of full-time benefits to include:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision plans
  • Paid Time Off, Paid Sick Leave, Paid Parental Leave, and Emergency Caregiver Leave
  • Tuition Reimbursement and Student Loan Paydown programs
  • 401k/403B, 401a plans
  • Career Advancement Opportunities
  • Work Perks

For more information about our employee benefits, CLICK HERE!
Keywords: NCP, Nursing Care Partner, CNA, Certified Nursing Assistant, Nursing Assistant, NA, Patient Care Tech, PCT, Patient Care Technician, MA, Medical Assistant, EMT, EMS, Paramedic, Talroo-Allied Health, #LI-CP1
Benefits: Caring For Your Family and Your Career
Medical, Dental, Vision plans
• Adoption, Fertility and Surrogacy Reimbursement up to 10,000
• Paid Time Off and Sick Leave
• Paid Parental & Family Caregiver Leave
• Emergency Backup Care
• Long-Term, Short-Term Disability, and Critical Illness plans
• Life Insurance
• 401k/403B with Employer Match
• Tuition Assistance - 5,250/year and discounted educational opportunities through Guild Education
• Student Debt Pay Down - 10,000
• Pet Insurance
• Legal Resources Plan
• Colleagues have the opportunity to earn an annual discretionary bonus if established system and employee eligibility criteria is met.
Sentara Leigh Hospital, located in Norfolk, VA, is a 274-bed acute care facility that opened in 1903 and relocated to its present site in 1977. Our hospital completed a renovation in 2016, including two new patient towers, a beautiful atrium, and a multi-story parking garage. Sentara Leigh Hospital includes a dedicated Orthopedic Hospital providing patients access to a full continuum of orthopedic care, from the preoperative phase and surgery to rehabilitation and home care services. Along with being a recognized accredited Primary Stroke Center, and Magnet hospital for nursing excellence, we also specialize in orthopedic and spine care, heart, vascular, maternity care, and general surgery. We are also home to the region's only 24-hour hyperbaric oxygen program that helps speed up the healing of carbon monoxide poisoning, wounds that won't heal, infections in which tissues are starved for oxygen, airborne chemical exposures, and scuba diving accidents.
Sentara Health is an equal opportunity employer and prides itself on the diversity and inclusiveness of its close to an almost 30,000-member workforce. Diversity, inclusion, and belonging is a guiding principle of the organization to ensure its workforce reflects the communities it serves.
In support of our mission "to improve health every day," this is a tobacco-free environment.
For positions that are available as remote work, Sentara Health employs associates in the following states:
Alabama, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

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