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Patient Observer Sitter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Patients requiring a Care Companion (formerly called a sitter) could be confused, experiencing ... The Patient Observer/Companion is responsible for the care of the patient and in accordance with ...

The Patient Observer works to maintain safety as a one to one to assure that the patient does not ... sitter competency evaluation • Completes non-therapeutic functions under the direction of MD, PA ...

The Patient Observer works to maintain safety as a one to one to assure that the patient does not ... sitter competency evaluation • Completes non-therapeutic functions under the direction of MD, PA ...

Patients requiring a Care Companion (formerly called a sitter) could be confused, experiencing ... The Patient Observer/Companion is responsible for the care of the patient and in accordance with ...

Patient Safety Observer

Methuen, MA · On-site

$15.81 - $23.50/hr

Patient Safety Observer, Safe Sitter, Part-time 24 Hours per Week. Evenings 11pm to 7am. Methuen campus To provide a safe and comfortable environment for those patients at risk of harming themselves ...

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Patient Observer Sitter information

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How much do patient observer sitter jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for patient observer sitter in the United States is $18.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a patient observer sitter?

A patient observer sitter is a healthcare worker responsible for monitoring patients who are at risk of falling, self-harm, or injury. They typically observe patients continuously, often in hospitals or care facilities, and may require training in patient safety and communication skills. The role involves maintaining constant visual or physical supervision to ensure patient safety and prevent accidents.

What are Patient Observer Sitters?

Patient Observer Sitters, also known simply as sitters, are healthcare professionals who monitor patients who require constant supervision due to medical, behavioral, or safety concerns. They help prevent patients from harming themselves or others, such as those at risk of falling, wandering, or exhibiting suicidal tendencies. Sitters work under the direction of nursing staff and do not provide medical care but play a crucial role in ensuring patient safety and comfort. Their presence allows nurses and other healthcare providers to focus on clinical tasks while knowing vulnerable patients are being closely watched.

Is patient sitting a stressful job?

Patient observer sitters often work in healthcare settings monitoring patients who may be agitated, confused, or at risk of harm, which can be stressful. The job requires constant vigilance, attention to detail, and emotional resilience, especially when dealing with difficult or unpredictable patient behaviors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Patient Observer Sitter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Patient Observer Sitter, you need a basic understanding of patient care, strong observation skills, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hospital safety protocols, patient monitoring systems, and incident reporting tools is typically required. Excellent communication, patience, and attention to detail are essential soft skills for ensuring patient safety and comfort. These abilities are crucial for promptly detecting changes in patient behavior and supporting the healthcare team in maintaining a safe environment.

What is the difference between Patient Observer Sitter vs Patient Care Assistant?

AspectPatient Observer SitterPatient Care Assistant
CertificationsBasic CPR, sometimes specialized trainingCPR, First Aid, and often CNA certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, or nursing homes, mainly monitoring patientsHospitals, nursing homes, home care, assisting with daily activities
Job ResponsibilitiesMonitoring patient safety, observing patient behavior, reporting issuesAssisting with personal care, mobility, and basic medical tasks

Patient Observer Sitters primarily focus on monitoring patients to ensure safety, often without providing direct care. In contrast, Patient Care Assistants offer hands-on support with daily activities and basic medical tasks. Both roles are essential in healthcare settings but differ in responsibilities and required certifications.

What do you need to be a patient sitter?

To be a patient sitter, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, good observational and communication skills, and sometimes certification in CPR or first aid. Employers may also require background checks and training specific to patient safety and care protocols.

How much do patient sitters make?

In New Jersey, patient sitters typically earn between $12 and $16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and healthcare facility. Salaries may also vary based on shift hours and certifications such as CPR or first aid.

How does a Patient Observer Sitter typically work with nursing staff to ensure patient safety?

Patient Observer Sitters play a vital role in supporting nursing staff by providing continuous, one-on-one monitoring of patients who may be at risk of harming themselves or others. They communicate regularly with nurses to report any changes in a patient's behavior, follow care plans, and help maintain a safe environment. Sitters are expected to remain vigilant, collaborate closely with the healthcare team, and promptly alert staff to any urgent situations. This teamwork ensures that patients receive attentive care and that potential incidents are quickly addressed.
More about Patient Observer Sitter jobs
What cities are hiring for Patient Observer Sitter jobs? Cities with the most Patient Observer Sitter job openings:
What states have the most Patient Observer Sitter jobs? States with the most job openings for Patient Observer Sitter jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Patient Observer Sitter jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Patient Observer Sitter jobs are:
Infographic showing various Patient Observer Sitter job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Locum Tenens, 34% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,169 per year, or $18.8 per hour.
Patient Observer, Full Time, Night Shift

Patient Observer, Full Time, Night Shift

Prisma Health

Greer, SC

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Prisma Health rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 346 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

373rd of 890 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Inspire health. Serve with compassion. Be the difference.

Job Summary

Assumes responsibility for constant observation and ensures patient's safety while actively preventing self-harm or harm to others. Assists with meeting limited patient needs under the supervision of the Registered Nurse.

Essential Functions

  • All team members are expected to be knowledgeable and compliant with Prisma Health's purpose: Inspire health. Serve with compassion. Be the difference.

  • Provides constant 1:1 observation of assigned patient. Documents and reports any risks, changes or problems observed according to policy in order to prevent self-harm and harm to others.

  • When observing patients at risk for self-harm, completes safety sweeps as per policy.

  • Ensures the patient is not unattended and notifies/engages assistance from unit staff and/or Security if patient tries to leave the floor.

  • Gives and receives hand-off communication (report) regarding patient assigned to observe.

  • While maintaining constant patient observation will assist with task of meeting patient's needs with turning and positioning, patient centered diversional activities, feeding, ambulation, patient transfers and transports.

  • When observing patients at risk for self-harm, is in attendance of patient at all times including, bathing, toileting, and sleeping.

  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Supervisory/Management Responsibilities

  • This is a non-management job that will report to a supervisor, manager, director or executive.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Education - High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

  • Experience - No previous experience required. Previous experience in a healthcare setting preferred.

In Lieu Of

  • NA

Required Certifications, Registrations, Licenses

  • CNA or PCT certification preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • NA

Work Shift

Night (United States of America)

Location

Greer Medical Campus

Facility

1004 Greer Memorial Hospital

Department

10049251 Sitters/Observers

Share your talent with us! Our vision is simple: to transform healthcare for the benefits of the communities we serve. The transformation of healthcare requires talented individuals in every role here at Prisma Health.


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