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Patient Observation Job Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Compass Group

PATIENT OBSERVATION ASSISTANT

Racine, 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

Austin, TX · On-site

$16/hr

Prior patient observation experience preferred. * Perks: Willing to train! * Fixed Pay Rate: $16.00 per hour. If serving others is in your blood and you thrive on helping people heal, TouchPoint is ...

Compass Group

PATIENT OBSERVATION ASSISTANT

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$18.36/hr

* We are hiring immediately for full time and part time PATIENT OBSERVATION ASSISTANT positions. * Location : INOVA LOUDOUN - 44045 Riverside Parkway, Leesburg, VA 20176. Note: online applications ...

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

Wichita, KS · On-site

$15.86/hr

Previous patient observation assistant experience preferred. High school diploma required. * Fixed Pay Rate: $15.86 per hour. If serving others is in your blood and you thrive on helping people heal ...

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 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 ...

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How much do patient observation job jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for patient observation job 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 some common challenges faced by Patient Observation staff, and how can they manage them effectively?

Patient Observation staff often encounter challenges such as maintaining constant vigilance during long shifts, managing patients who may be agitated or at risk of self-harm, and balancing the need for patient privacy with safety protocols. Effective strategies include practicing active engagement with patients, taking scheduled breaks when possible, and communicating clearly with nurses and the wider healthcare team. Ongoing training and support from supervisors are also crucial for handling stressful situations and ensuring patient well-being.

What is a Patient Observation job?

A Patient Observation job involves monitoring patients in a healthcare setting to ensure their safety and well-being, especially those at risk of harming themselves or others. People in this role, often called Patient Observers or Sitters, work closely with nursing staff to observe patients, report any changes in behavior or condition, and sometimes assist with basic care tasks. They play a critical role in preventing accidents, falls, or self-injury by providing continuous supervision. This position usually requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations.

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 typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic patient care knowledge, and attention to detail. Familiarity with hospital safety protocols, electronic health record systems, and basic monitoring equipment is often required. Strong observational skills, patience, and effective communication help you respond to patient needs and collaborate with healthcare teams. These abilities ensure patient safety, prevent adverse events, and support quality care in clinical environments.

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

AspectPatient Observation JobPatient Care Assistant
CredentialsHigh school diploma; some roles may require certification in patient observation or basic healthcareHigh school diploma; certification or training in patient care often preferred
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, long-term care facilitiesHospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities
Job FocusMonitoring patient status, reporting changes, ensuring safetyAssisting with daily activities, basic patient care, support
Common UsageUsed interchangeably in some settings; focused on observationMore hands-on care; broader responsibilities

While both roles involve working closely with patients in healthcare settings, Patient Observation Jobs primarily focus on monitoring and reporting patient status, whereas Patient Care Assistants provide direct assistance with daily activities and basic care. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What cities are hiring for Patient Observation Job jobs? Cities with the most Patient Observation Job job openings:
What states have the most Patient Observation Job jobs? States with the most job openings for Patient Observation Job jobs include:
Patient Observation Job jobs near you

Patient Observation Specialist

UNC Health Appalachian

Boone, NC • On-site

$16/hr

Other

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Patient Observation Specialist
Location: Boone, North Carolina | PRN | Day Shift
Why You'll Love Working Here
As a Patient Observation Specialist at UNC Health Appalachian, you'll provide a constant, reassuring presence at the bedside - continuously observing and monitoring assigned patients to keep them safe and supported. Working closely with our nursing teams, you'll help deliver high-quality, compassionate care within a mission-driven health system committed to safety, teamwork, and professional growth.
Nestled in the scenic Appalachian Mountains, Boone offers the perfect blend of community, culture, and outdoor adventure.
  • Compensation: Starting at $16.00/hour, based on experience, education, and internal equity. Eligible for shift differentials for applicable times.
  • Benefits: As a PRN position, this role is not eligible for employee benefits.

What You'll Do as a Patient Observation Specialist
  • Provide continuous visual and auditory observation of assigned patients to prevent injuries or adverse events.
  • Monitor and document patient behavior, promptly reporting changes to nursing staff.
  • Assist patients with basic needs such as positioning, feeding, and hygiene as directed.
  • Maintain a safe, clean environment and adhere to infection control protocols.
  • Support patient transport within the hospital as needed.
  • Participate in individualized care planning and professional development activities.
  • Comply with all hospital policies, procedures, and regulatory standards.

Qualifications
  • Education:
    • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Experience:
    • Previous experience in a healthcare setting preferred, especially in patient observation or care roles.
  • Licensure/Certifications:
    • Basic Life Support (BLS) from the American Heart Association required at time of hire.
    • Crisis Prevention and Intervention (CPI) certification required within one (1) year of hire.
  • Skills & Abilities:
    • Strong observational and communication skills.
    • Ability to remain calm, compassionate, and focused in stressful situations.
    • Basic understanding of medical terminology and patient care procedures.
    • Proficiency with electronic health records (EHR) preferred.
    • Excellent interpersonal skills for interacting with patients, families, and healthcare teams.

Physical & Work Environment
  • Sit, stand, and walk for extended periods.
  • Lift, move, and assist patients as needed; manual dexterity and visual acuity required.
  • Ability to respond quickly to patient needs and emergencies.
  • Direct contact with patients, including exposure to bodily fluids, infectious diseases, and hazardous materials.
  • Adherence to standard precautions and use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Flexibility to work various day shifts, including weekends and holidays.

What Sets Us Apart
  • Career Growth: Structured advancement pathways, hands-on training, and ongoing development to help you grow within UNC Health Appalachian.
  • Impactful Work: As a Patient Observation Specialist, you'll make a direct difference in patient safety, comfort, and recovery - providing critical support across our three hospitals and outpatient facilities.
  • Community & Lifestyle: Boone ranks among the best small towns in America, offering outdoor recreation, arts, culture, and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Inclusive Culture: UNC Health Appalachian is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring every team member feels valued and supported.

Ready to be a reassuring presence when patients need it most? Apply today to join UNC Health Appalachian and make a lasting impact on our community.
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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