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Patient Observer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Compass Group

PATIENT TRANSPORTER

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$23/hr

... Observation, Facilities Management, Healthcare Technology Solutions, Ambulatory Services, and Sterile Processing. Job Summary Patient Transporter Facilitating Internal Hospital Patient Moves Summary:

Choice Healthcare Services

Patient Coordinator

Antioch, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $21.78/hr

The Patient Coordinator (Front Office Receptionist) schedules appointments, performs check-in and ... Confirms observation appointments * Schedules observation appointments * Works on daily sign in ...

Choice Healthcare Services

Patient Coordinator

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $17.98/hr

Overview Patient Coordinator - Orthodontist Excellent Opportunity to grow in your dental career: We ... Confirms observation appointments * Schedules observation appointments * Works on daily sign in ...

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Patient Observer information

See California salary details

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How much do patient observer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for patient observer in California is $16.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Patient Observer, you generally need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic healthcare knowledge, and strong observational skills. Familiarity with hospital safety protocols, patient monitoring systems, and documentation tools is often required. Attention to detail, patience, and effective communication make someone stand out in this position. These skills are crucial for ensuring patient safety, timely intervention, and accurate reporting in healthcare environments.

What does a patient observer do?

Patient observers, also known as patient sitters or safety attendants, are healthcare workers responsible for closely monitoring patients who may be at risk of harming themselves or others, such as those with confusion, suicidal tendencies, or fall risks. Their primary role is to ensure patient safety by staying in the room, observing the patient’s behavior, and alerting medical staff if immediate assistance is needed. Patient observers do not provide medical care but play a critical role in maintaining a safe hospital environment, supporting nursing staff, and helping prevent incidents.

What are the typical challenges faced by a patient observer, and how can they be effectively managed?

Patient Observers often encounter challenges such as managing patients with unpredictable or aggressive behaviors, maintaining constant vigilance during long shifts, and balancing empathy with professional boundaries. Effective management involves staying alert, practicing strong communication skills with both patients and healthcare staff, and following established safety protocols. Regular training, support from the healthcare team, and self-care strategies are essential for handling the emotional and physical demands of the role.

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

AspectPatient ObserverPatient Care Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training providedHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification may be preferred
Work EnvironmentHospitals, psychiatric facilities, or clinics; monitoring patientsHospitals, nursing homes, or clinics; assisting with daily patient needs
Job DutiesMonitoring patients for safety, reporting changesAssisting with hygiene, mobility, and basic care
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare facilities focusing on patient safetyLong-term care, hospitals, outpatient clinics

While both roles involve patient monitoring, a Patient Observer primarily focuses on safety and supervision without providing direct care, whereas a Patient Care Assistant offers hands-on support with daily activities. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

More about Patient Observer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Patient Observer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Patient Observer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Patient Observer jobs in California?

For Patient Observer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Patient Observer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Patient Observer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Patient Observer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Patient Observer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Patient Observer jobs in CA?

For Patient Observer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Patient Observer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Patient Observer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,309 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

Patient Care Assistant, Observation Unit

memorial care

Long Beach, CA • On-site

$25.67/hr

Per diem

Medical

Posted 4 days ago

MemorialCare rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 898 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Title: Patient Care Assistant

Location: Long Beach, CA

Department: Observation Care, Adult

Status: Per Diem

Shift: Nights (12hr)

Pay Range*: $25.67/hr

MemorialCare is a nonprofit integrated health system that includes four leading hospitals, award-winning medical groups - consisting of over 200 sites of care, and more than 2,000 physicians throughout Orange and Los Angeles Counties. We are committed to increasing access to patient-centric, affordable, and high-quality healthcare; your personal contributions are integral to MemorialCare's recognition as a market leader and innovator in value-based and other care models.

Across our family of medical centers, we support each one of our bright, talented employees in reaching the highest levels of professional development, contribution, collaboration, and accountability. Whatever your role and whatever expertise you bring, we are dedicated to helping you achieve your full potential in an environment of respect, innovation, and teamwork.

Position Summary

Under direct supervision of licensed personnel, the Patient Care Assistant is responsible for performing activities of daily living for patients and generally assist with the unit activities that support patient care in the Observation Care Unit at MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center.  The Patient Care Assistant facilitates a safe, clean working environment and contributes to the health and safety of patients.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities of the Job

         Under the supervision of licensed personnel, performs patient care activities as identified on Patient Care Assistant competency checklist.

         Recognizes and reports changing patient care needs to the registered nurse.

         Documents findings and maintains privacy in patient's medical record in compliance with unit specific standards and systems.

         Provides emotional and physical comfort to patients and provides a safe environment for patients. Responsible for maintenance of the department equipment, reporting and follow-up of equipment in need of repairs

*Placement in the pay range is based on multiple factors including, but not limited to, relevant years of experience and qualifications. In addition to base pay, there may be additional compensation available for this role, including but not limited to, shift differentials, extra shift incentives, and bonus opportunities. Health and wellness is our passion at MemorialCare-that includes taking good care of employees and their dependents. We offer high quality health insurance plan options, so you can select the best choice for your family. And there's more...Check out our MemorialCare Benefits for more information about our Benefits and Rewards.

Minimum Requirements

Qualifications/Work Experience:

  • Experience in a healthcare setting is preferred.
  • Certified Nursing Assistants with 3 years of experience in an acute care facility or 5 years or experience in a Skilled Nursing Facility or sub-acute setting or Nursing students actively enrolled in a nursing program who have completed the first semester of the nursing program.

Education/Licensure/Certification:

  • A current American Heart Association Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers (CPR & AED) certification is required
  • High school diploma or equivalency
  • Basic computer knowledge preferred 

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