1

Patient Observation Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Maintains the prescribed level of surveillance, including constant observation in the line of sight ... Maintains order in the patient room. * Assists Registered Nurse and care team, in conducting ...

Maintains the prescribed level of surveillance, including constant observation in the line of sight ... Maintains order in the patient room. * Assists Registered Nurse and care team, in conducting ...

Complete activity assessment through patient observation and patient/family interview, obtaining information on the patient's needs, skills, interests and limitations for the development and ...

Showing results 41-60

Patient Observation information

See Iowa salary details

$10

$15

$19

How much do patient observation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for patient observation in Iowa is $15.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $16.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a patient observation?

Patient Observation jobs involve monitoring patients in healthcare settings to ensure their safety and well-being. Individuals in these roles, often called patient sitters or observers, watch over patients who may be at risk of harming themselves or others, or who require close supervision for medical reasons. They report any changes in a patient's condition to nursing staff and may assist with basic non-medical tasks. Patient observers play a crucial role in preventing falls, injuries, and other incidents within hospitals and care facilities.

What skills and qualifications are needed for patient observation?

To thrive as a Patient Observation Technician, you need attention to detail, basic patient care knowledge, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hospital safety protocols, electronic health record (EHR) systems, and basic monitoring equipment is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring patient safety, accurately reporting changes, and supporting clinical teams in delivering quality care.

What are common challenges faced by patient observation staff, and how can they be managed?

Patient Observation staff often encounter challenges such as maintaining constant vigilance, managing unpredictable patient behaviors, and balancing the need for patient safety with respecting privacy. These challenges can be managed by receiving thorough training in de-escalation techniques, using clear communication with the healthcare team, and practicing self-care to prevent fatigue. Working closely with nurses and other clinical staff also helps address concerns quickly and ensures the best care for patients.

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

AspectPatient ObservationPatient Care Assistant
CertificationsBasic training, CPR certificationCPR, First Aid, sometimes CNA certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, long-term care facilitiesHospitals, nursing homes, assisted living
Job ResponsibilitiesMonitoring patient vitals, reporting changesAssisting with daily activities, basic care
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare facilities focusing on patient safetyDirect patient support and care

Patient Observation focuses on monitoring patients' health status and reporting changes, often requiring basic certifications. Patient Care Assistants provide hands-on support with daily activities and basic care tasks. While both roles work in healthcare settings, Patient Observation emphasizes monitoring, whereas Patient Care Assistants are involved in direct patient care.

How do you become a patient observer?

To become a patient observer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions may require healthcare-related certifications or experience. Training is often provided on-site, and strong observational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to monitor patients safely are essential. Background checks and adherence to facility policies are also common requirements.

What does a patient observation assistant do?

A patient observation assistant monitors patients' conditions, records vital signs, and reports 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 Iowa?

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

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Patient Observation jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Patient Observation job openings:

Infographic showing various Patient Observation job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,652 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

Patient Safety Attendant

Trinity Health

Mason City, IA • On-site

Part-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Trinity Health rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 354 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

569th of 891 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Employment Type:Part timeShift:Day ShiftDescription:

Responsible for proactively ensuring and maintaining patient safety and security under the direction of Registered Nurse. Observes and monitors safety and comfort of non-suicidal, suicidal and patients who require frequent or continual observation and contact, due to psychiatric, medical and/or safety reasons.

What we offer:

  • Competitive wages; including weekend and night differentials

  • Benefit Package(Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan)for positions 16 hours per week or greater

  • Educational assistance

  • Success Sharing - a bonus when the organization meets its goals

Hours:Days 7AM - 7PM

About The Job:

Responsible for proactively ensuring and maintaining patient safety and security under the direction of Registered Nurse. Observes and monitors safety and comfort of non-suicidal patients who require frequent or continual observation and contact, due to psychiatric, medical and/or safety reasons.

What we are looking for:

  • Knows, understands, incorporates and demonstrates the mission, vision and core values of MercyOne North Iowa and Trinity Health in behaviors, practices and decisions.

  • Ensures patient's comfort and relates any concerns and/or patient issues promptly to the Registered Nurse and any other appropriate providers involved with the patient's care; assists in implementing safety measures and de-escalation.

  • Maintains the prescribed level of surveillance, including constant observation in the line of sight and in proximity for rapid intervention even when visitors are in the room and when patient is in the bathroom; accompanies the patient at all times including off-unit for diagnostic studies.

  • Maintains order in the patient room.

  • Assists Registered Nurse and care team, in conducting activities that enhance the patient's wellbeing, including but not limited to, ambulating, feeding, toileting and other activities of daily living.

  • Interacts and engages with the patient in therapeutically prescribed activities while helping to ensure patient and family satisfaction.

  • Engages agitated patients in physical and non-physical interventions to de-escalate without having to resort to physical restraints when possible. Ensures a safe environment for patient, self, and others.

  • Documents patient care and pertinent events that occurred throughout the shift.

  • The PSA may engage the patient with diversional activities, as appropriate to patient status, such as playing cards, puzzles and games.

  • Maintains a working knowledge of the MercyOne North Iowa and Trinity Health Integrity and Compliance Program and Code of Conduct; as well as other policies and procedures in order to ensure adherence in a manner that reflects honest, ethical and professional behavior.

  • Maintains required department confidentiality and abides by HIPPA regulations.

  • Takes an active role in enhancing ability to carry out job functions through personal and professional/job-related growth and development and participates in medical center and/or departmental education programs.

  • Communicates with and performs duties following the philosophy of MercyOne North Iowa and the Sisters of Mercy reflecting the organization's Mission, Values, and Culture Beliefs.

  • Supports and abides by all medical center, departmental, and safety policies and procedures. Proactively identifies safety concerns surrounding the work environment.

  • Performs other responsibilities as requested by supervisor, manager or department head.

Education:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent.

Experience:

  • CPI certification required; must be obtained with 6 months of hire.

  • Responsible for maintaining ongoing CPI renewals

Special Skills and Competencies:

  • Ability to communicate effectively with patient, family, visitors and hospital staff and respond quickly to patient behavioral changes by reporting and summoning assistance.

  • Solid customer service skills.

  • Ability to work in an environment that may be stressful with individuals having diverse personalities and work styles.

  • Strong prioritization, multi-tasking and coordination skills within a fast-paced environment.

  • Personal presence that is characterized by a sense of honesty, integrity, and caring with the ability to inspire and motivate others to promote the philosophy, mission, vision, goals, and values of Trinity Health.

  • Must be able to read, write and/or speak English.

Our Commitment

Rooted in our Mission and Core Values, we honor the dignity of every person and recognize the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents each colleague brings. By finding common ground and embracing our differences, we grow stronger together and deliver more compassionate, person-centered care. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.


What Trinity Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Trinity Health logo

About Trinity Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Trinity Health Ann Arbor is a 537 -bed teaching hospital located on 340 acre campus. Recognized by IBM Watson as a Top 100 Hospital and #1 Teaching Hospital, Trinity Health Ann Arbor has been a leading health care provider for more than 100 years. Trinity Health has received numerous local and national awards in recognition of our leadership, quality outcomes, and clinical excellence.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Livonia, MI, US