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Patient Observer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Mental Health Technician

Rocky Top, TN · On-site

$15 - $20.25/hr

Communicates and documents patient observation and date effectively. * Documents patient's departure from unit with 100% accuracy and within defined timelines. * Documents significant occurrences ...

Mental Health Technician

Rocky Top, TN · On-site

$15 - $20.25/hr

Communicates and documents patient observation and date effectively. * Documents patient's departure from unit with 100% accuracy and within defined timelines. * Documents significant occurrences ...

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Showing results 21-40

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.

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 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:

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.

$15 - $20.33/hr

Other

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Where You'll Work
CommonSpirit Memorial is an award-winning, not-for-profit, faith-based health care organization dedicated to the healing ministry of Jesus Christ. Founded by the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth, we offer a comprehensive continuum of care, from preventative and primary care to acute hospital services specializing in cancer, cardiac, neuroscience, stroke, and orthopedic services. Our commitment to excellence has earned us top prestigious recognition repeatedly from U.S. News and World Report, PINC AI™, CMS, Healthgrades®, Leapfrog, and most recently as one of the Best Places to Work in Tennessee. We are proud to serve Southeast Tennessee and Northwest Georgia with the expertise of 4,700 employees and nearly 500 affiliated physicians.
Job Summary and Responsibilities
As our Patient Transporter, you will provide essential assistance and transportation for patients and related items across our campus, ensuring a highly customer-sensitive and seamless experience.
Every day you will promptly and safely transport inpatients and outpatients to and from various hospital areas. You will meticulously confirm patient identification, greet and assist in transferring patients, and make conscious observations of patient condition during transport, reporting any issues to appropriate personnel. You will also maintain a clean and organized work area and report any malfunctioning equipment.
To be successful in this role, you will demonstrate a strong commitment to patient safety and exceptional customer service for all individuals within our facility. You will be attentive, observant, and capable of performing duties efficiently while upholding the highest standards of care and professionalism.
  • Safely and efficiently transport in-patients internally to and from various hospital departments as needed, including: Patient testing areas (e.g., radiology , cardiology, etc.), Other designated locations within the hospital
  • Utilize TeleTracking transportation software to schedule and track patient movements, ensuring timely and accurate patient transfers
  • Operate standard hospital equipment, including beds, stretchers, and wheelchairs, with proficiency and care.
  • Maintain a clean and safe environment for patients during transport
  • Communicate effectively with patients, families, and hospital staff to ensure smooth and efficient patient transfers
  • Transport medical equipment, supplies, and other materials to and from designated locations within the hospital as needed.

Job Requirements
Required
  • High School Graduate, upon hire
  • AHA Basic Life Support - CPR within 30 days of employment

Preferred
  • Former experience in a healthcare setting