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Patient Observation Job Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA (NOW HIRING)

Registered Nurse 1-3

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$4.2K - $7.6K/mo

Assists and or conducts patient care groups conducted by staff, monitors patient accountability sheets, and makes unit rounds every 2 hours to ensure patient observation is maintained according to ...

... Patient Observation, Facilities Management, Healthcare Technology Solutions, Ambulatory Services, and Sterile Processing. Job Summary Summary: Floor Technician is responsible for floor maintenance ...

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Patient Observation Job information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

$11

$16

$19

How much do patient observation job jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for patient observation job in Baton Rouge, LA is $16.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.52 and $17.07 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?

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.

Infographic showing various Patient Observation Job job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $33,381 per year, or $16 per hour.

Registered Nurse 1 (WAE)

State of Louisiana

Baton Rouge, LA • On-site

$4.2K - $7.6K/mo

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


State Of Louisiana rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 73 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

43rd of 50 rated states


Job description

About this Job Division: Within the Nursing or SFF Departments at ELMHS, Located in Jackson, LA The Mission of ELMHS is to provide mental health evaluation, treatment, habilitation, and consultation for adults. Programs include inpatient interventions, jail-based evaluations, supervised group home and residential programs, forensic evaluation, care, custody, and aftercare; intermediate and long-term psychiatric care are coordinated with the total system of care in Louisiana. ELMHS is looking for a motivated, detail-oriented individual to join the team in the Nursing Department as a Registered Nurse.

In this role, you will provide direct patient care and develop a nursing plan of care for patients on the assigned unit. Minimum Qualifications Possession of a current Louisiana Registered Nurse license or a temporary permit or multi-state license issued by a Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC/eNLC) state to practice as a registered nurse. Job Specification The official job specifications for this role, as defined by the State Civil Service, can be found here.

Job Duties and Other Information Job Duties: In this role, you will: Assist physicians with patient examinations and record patient data according to policy/procedure. Preparation and administration of medication per the physician's orders, for both medical and psychiatric reasons. Assists other professional personnel in developing and maintaining a therapeutic environment and improving patient care Review medications/supplies stored in the medicine room for expiration date and count/document controlled drugs with the incoming shift and account for their use during the shift.

Disinfect/clean surfaces and equipment to ensure that infection control standards are met in the medicine room and examination room. Initiates or responds to hospital codes and demonstrates the ability to provide nursing assistance appropriate to code situations. Assists and or conducts patient care groups conducted by staff, monitors patient accountability sheets, and makes unit rounds every 2 hours to ensure patient observation is maintained according to policy and procedure.

Communicates verbally and in writing with pharmacy and central supply personnel. Maintains open and accurate communication with department personnel; reports incidents, accidents, or injuries to supervisor and documents on appropriate forms; reports patient abuse/neglect immediately, ensures patient safety. Participates in education trainings that are mandatory for accreditation and licensure of the facility.

Position-Specific Details: Appointment Type: WAE(not to exceed 1,245 hours in a 12-month period) Compensation: This position qualifies for shift differentials, with rates varying based on shift time, day of the week, and holidays. How To Apply: No Civil Service test score is required in order to be considered for this vacancy. To apply for this vacancy, click on the "Apply" link above and complete an electronic application, which can be used for this vacancy as well as future job opportunities.

Applicants are responsible for checking the status of their application to determine where they are in the recruitment process. Further status message information is located under the Information section of the Current Job Opportunities page. *Information to support your eligibility for this job title must be included in the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education)

Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of completed education and experience sections on your application. Applications may be rejected if incomplete. Contact Information: For further information about this vacancy, contact: Leigh Moore ELMHS HR ELMHS-HR@LA.GOV 225-634-0680 Louisiana is a State As a Model Employer (SAME) that supports the recruitment, hiring, and retention of individuals with disabilities.


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About State of Louisiana

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Louisiana, based in Baton Rouge, LA, US, is not a traditional company per se, but a government body that oversees the administration of the state. As revealed on its official website, louisiana.gov, its wide range of services falls within public administration industry, including education, healthcare, infrastructure, environment conservation, and law enforcement. Founded in 1806, the State of Louisiana’s mission is to ensure a high quality of life for its residents by effectively managing public resources, enforcing laws, and fostering economic growth. Its most notable achievements include the successful implementation of its Coastal Master Plan, aimed at conserving Louisiana's extensive coastline, and the dramatic overhaul of its public education system.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Baton Rouge, LA, US

Year founded

1812

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