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Patient Observation Tech Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

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Patient Observation Tech information

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$11

$19

$28

How much do patient observation tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for patient observation tech in Minnesota is $19.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $20.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you become a patient observation tech?

To become a patient observation tech, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete relevant training or certification programs, which may include CPR and first aid. Some employers require prior experience in healthcare or patient care, and on-the-job training is often provided to familiarize new techs with hospital protocols and monitoring equipment.

What is a patient observation tech?

A Patient Observation Tech, also known as a patient sitter or safety attendant, is a healthcare worker responsible for closely monitoring patients who may be at risk of harming themselves or others. They work under the supervision of nursing staff to ensure patient safety, often providing one-on-one observation in hospitals or care facilities. Their duties may include alerting medical staff to changes in patient behavior, assisting with basic needs, and helping maintain a safe environment. This role is vital for preventing accidents, falls, or incidents involving vulnerable patients.

What are some common challenges faced by patient observation techs, and how are they typically addressed?

Patient Observation Techs often encounter challenges such as managing multiple patients with varying needs, maintaining constant vigilance during long shifts, and effectively communicating any changes in patient behavior to the medical team. To address these challenges, techs receive thorough training on observation protocols, work closely with nurses and other healthcare professionals, and utilize clear documentation practices. Support from colleagues and regular debriefings also help techs manage the emotional demands of the role.

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

AspectPatient Observation TechPatient Care Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, CPR certification, training in patient monitoringHigh school diploma, CPR certification, basic healthcare training
Work EnvironmentHospitals, psychiatric facilities, long-term careHospitals, nursing homes, clinics
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare facilities focusing on patient safety and monitoringDirect patient care, assisting nurses and doctors
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in patient monitoring and safetyAssisting with daily patient needs and support

The Patient Observation Tech primarily focuses on monitoring and ensuring patient safety, often in psychiatric or hospital settings, requiring specific training in observation techniques. The Patient Care Assistant provides broader direct patient support, assisting with daily activities and basic healthcare needs. Both roles are vital in healthcare but differ in scope and responsibilities.

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

A Patient Observation Tech needs a high school diploma or equivalent, basic patient care knowledge, and the ability to monitor patient safety and behavior effectively. Familiarity with hospital protocols, electronic health record (EHR) systems, and communication devices is important. Strong attention to detail, patience, and effective interpersonal skills help in observing patients and reporting concerns promptly. These skills are essential to ensure patient safety and provide timely support to clinical teams in healthcare settings.
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Patient Observation Tech jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Patient Observation Tech job openings:
Infographic showing various Patient Observation Tech job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,674 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Nursing Station Technician (NST)- Outpatient Observation

Fairview Health Services

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

$17.50 - $21/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 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

132nd of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Nursing Station Technician (NST)

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