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Patient Observation Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Compass Group

PATIENT OBSERVATION ASSISTANT

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$18.36/hr

* We are hiring immediately for part time PATIENT OBSERVATION ASSISTANT positions. * Location : Inova Alexandria Hospital - 4320 Seminary Road, Alexandria, VA 22304. Note: online applications accepted ...

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

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

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 ...

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Patient Observation information

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How much do patient observation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for patient observation in Virginia is $16.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $17.64 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 Virginia?

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

Patient Observation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Patient Observation job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,466 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

PATIENT OBSERVATION ASSISTANT

Compass Group

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$18.36/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Compass Group rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 1,093 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

347th of 495 rated business services

Job description

  • We are hiring immediately for part time PATIENT OBSERVATION ASSISTANT positions.
  • Location: Inova Alexandria Hospital - 4320 Seminary Road, Alexandria, VA 22304. Note: online applications accepted only.
  • Schedule: Part time schedule. 6:00 am - 6:30 pm and 6:00 pm - 6:30 am. Days may vary. Further details upon interview.
  • Requirement: No experience necessary. Willing to train!
  • Fixed Pay Rate: $18.36 per hour.

Make a difference in the lives of people, your community, and yourself. At Crothall Healthcare, a Compass Healthcare company, you'll join a culture built on caring for people and creating a true sense of belonging. Our careers are filled with purpose and empower you to transform healthcare experiences while building lasting relationships.
Crothall provides specialized, high-quality, innovative support services exclusively to the healthcare industry. As the market leader in Environmental Services (EVS), we support nearly 1,300 accounts, many of which are ranked among the nation's top hospitals. With nearly 30,000 team members, we hold ourselves to high standards of detail, safety, and excellence. We empower and uplift each other by working together, take responsibility for doing the right thing, and believe there is no limit to our potential when we grow together across Environmental Services, Patient Transportation, Patient Observation, Facilities Management, Healthcare Technology Solutions, Ambulatory Services, and Sterile Processing.
Job Summary
Summary: Provides visual and audible observation of assigned patients under the direction of a Registered Nurse (RN) and unit manager.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Visually and audibly monitors the assigned patient's condition and behavior at all times.
  • Completes observation reports at established interval.
  • Takes initiative in compassionately rendering service or responding to needs. Interacts hospitably, cheerfully and supportively with staff, patients, visitors and work colleagues.
  • Remains at the bedside of assigned patient at all times unless relieved by an appropriate staff member.
  • Verbally redirects the patient from engaging in at-risk behaviors.
  • Seeks help or advice as soon as possible when patient appears to be in medical distress or poses a threat, and escalates to assigned medical professionals.
  • Participates in collaborative identification and reporting of patient safety issues. Assures patient environment is safe; reports any safety hazards to the charge nurse. Removes visible hazards and reports as appropriate.
  • Assists in calming and/or reorienting patient in cases of agitation or confusion.
  • Assists with keeping patient's room safe and orderly.
  • Accompanies patient when diagnostic testing is required.
  • Immediately summons the nursing staff if the patient requires assistance, control, or other nursing interventions, or exhibits unusual behavior or verbalizations. Immediately reports any potentially dangerous behavior or concerning conversations to the nurse.
  • Participates in hand-off of pertinent information/behavior about assigned patient when arriving on unit and upon completion of shift assignment. Arranges coverage around meal break times with nurse and informs nurse prior to leaving patient for any reason.
  • Assists patient with ordering dietary tray and setting up of patient's meal tray; assists with basic positioning of patient; assists with patient wheelchair rides and/or ambulation if patient is stable and gait has been previously determined safe by assigned staff nurse.
  • Responds rapidly and thoroughly to emergencies, special needs, etc.
  • Accepts suggestions and direction from supervisors and hospital staff.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of department policies and procedures. Honors department's attendance, break, behavior, dress, personal hygiene, and safety codes.
  • Honors all confidentiality and other regulatory requirements.
  • Accepts and absorbs department and hospital education program.
  • Assists other associates as necessary. Responds to direction as provided.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma, GED or equivalent is required
  • Current CPR AED or basic life Support healthcare provider (BLS-HCP) certification required within 30 days of hire, if required at the facility.
  • Ability to walk or stand for prolonged periods. Requires bending, stooping, reaching up, and lifting up to 50 pounds.
  • One to two years of previous experience is preferred.

BENEFITS FOR OUR TEAM MEMBERS
  • Full-time and part-time positions are offered the following benefits: Retirement Plan, Associate Shopping Program, Health and Wellness Programs, Discount Marketplace, Identify Theft Protection, Pet Insurance, and other voluntary benefits including Critical Illness Insurance, Accident Insurance, Hospital Indemnity Insurance, Legal Services, and Choice Auto and Home Program
  • Full-time positions also offer the following benefits to associates: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance/AD, Disability Insurance, Commuter Benefits, Employee Assistance Program, Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information.
https://www.compass-usa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/2023_WageTransparency_Crothall.pdf
Crothall is a member of Compass Group. Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer. At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.
Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity.
Certain positions may require Florida Level 2 background screening. Details: https://info.flclearinghouse.com/
Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.
Application Deadline: applications are accepted ongoing until all openings are filled for this position. If an applicant is declined due to the position being filled, they may still be considered for future opportunities and are always welcome to reapply.
Crothall maintains a drug-free workplace.

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