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Patient Observer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

CommonSpirit Health

Patient Transporter

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$14 - $19/hr

You will be attentive, observant, and capable of performing duties efficiently while upholding the ... Patient testing areas (e.g., radiology , cardiology, etc.), Other designated locations within the ...

CommonSpirit Health

Patient Transporter

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$14 - $19/hr

You will be attentive, observant, and capable of performing duties efficiently while upholding the ... Patient testing areas (e.g., radiology , cardiology, etc.), Other designated locations within the ...

CommonSpirit Health

Patient Transporter

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$14 - $19/hr

You will be attentive, observant, and capable of performing duties efficiently while upholding the ... Patient testing areas (e.g., radiology , cardiology, etc.), Other designated locations within the ...

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Patient Observer information

See Tennessee salary details

$10

$15

$18

How much do patient observer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for patient observer in Tennessee is $15.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $16.15 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 Tennessee?

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Patient Observer jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Patient Observer job openings:

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

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

Patient Observer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Patient Observer job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 56% Full Time, and 41% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,552 per year, or $15.2 per hour.

Patient Observer [Blount], Sitters/Observers, PRN, Night

Prisma Health

Maryville, TN • On-site

Part-time

Posted 6 days ago

Prisma Health rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 350 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

381st of 889 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 values: 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

Blount Memorial Hospital

Facility

8001 Blount Memorial Hospital, Inc.

Department

80019251 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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