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Patient Observer Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Virtual Monitor Tech

Salem, MA · On-site +1

$17.71 - $23.55/hr

In addition, at times the virtual monitor tech will also serve as a patient observer at the bedside. Qualifications Skills: Required: Basic computer operation skills, capable of monitoring multiple ...

In addition, at times the virtual monitor tech will also serve as a patient observer at the bedside. Qualifications Skills: Required: Basic computer operation skills, capable of monitoring multiple ...

Virtual Monitor Tech

Salem, MA · On-site +1

$17.71 - $23.55/hr

In addition, at times the virtual monitor tech will also serve as a patient observer at the bedside. Qualifications Skills: Required: Basic computer operation skills, capable of monitoring multiple ...

In addition, at times the virtual monitor tech will also serve as a patient observer at the bedside. Qualifications Skills: Required: Basic computer operation skills, capable of monitoring multiple ...

Performs patient observation as assigned. * Documents patient's behavior using the appropriate form/tool. * Obtains appropriate information at the start of the shift regarding care from a registered ...

Performs patient observation as assigned * Documents Patient's behavior using the appropriate form/tool * Obtains appropriate information at the start of the shift regarding care from a Registered ...

Performs patient observation as assigned * Documents Patient's behavior using the appropriate form/tool * Obtains appropriate information at the start of the shift regarding care from a Registered ...

Performs patient observation as assigned * Documents Patient's behavior using the appropriate form/tool * Obtains appropriate information at the start of the shift regarding care from a Registered ...

Patient Companion

Burlington, MA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Performs patient observation as assigned * Documents Patient's behavior using the appropriate form/tool * Obtains appropriate information at the start of the shift regarding care from a Registered ...

Performs patient observation as assigned * Documents Patient's behavior using the appropriate form/tool * Obtains appropriate information at the start of the shift regarding care from a Registered ...

Patient Companion

Burlington, MA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Performs patient observation as assigned * Documents Patient's behavior using the appropriate form/tool * Obtains appropriate information at the start of the shift regarding care from a Registered ...

Showing results 21-40

Patient Observer information

See Boston, MA salary details

$12

$18

$22

How much do patient observer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for patient observer in Boston, MA is $18.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.44 and $19.33 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 Boston, MA?

The most popular types of Patient Observer jobs in Boston, MA are:

What are popular job titles related to Patient Observer jobs in Boston, MA?

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

What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Patient Observer jobs?

Cities near Boston, MA with the most Patient Observer job openings:

Infographic showing various Patient Observer job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,767 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Patient Safety Observer - Per Diem (BMC Brighton)

Boston Medical Center

Brighton, MA • On-site

$16.29 - $24.21/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Boston Medical Center rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 108 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

550th of 1,060 rated hospitals


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Patient Safety Observer (One To One Sitter) performs one to one observation with patients admitted for an attempted suicide, with patients considered actively suicidal and on all patients who may harm themselves or for other safety reasons.

Supervised and/or reportable to the following:

- Resource Manager

Position: Patient Safety Observer- Per Diem

Department: Safe Sitter

Schedule: Part Time, Per Diem

Location: BMC Brighton

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES / DUTIES:

  • Responsibilities for patients at risk for suicide, self-injury, harm to others, and disorientation:
  • Must be within arms length of the patient at all times, unless other-wise directed by the charge RN.
  • Must be able to visually monitor patient at all times.
  • Must continuously observe and physically accompany patient to the bathrooms or
  • when patient has to go off the unit for tests.
  • Must make every effort to respect the dignity of the patient.
  • May not leave the patient unattended for any period of time unless relieved by another staff member.
  • If assistance is needed, the sitter must call out for help. If situation is not an emergency, sitter may use call night or telephone in room.
  • Must maintain verbal contact with the patient while awake to provide ongoing monitoring of communication indicating suicidal thoughts, and observe for sudden changes in behavior, and other changes in behavior which may indicate suicide potential.
  • Must report any significant changes in physical and mental status, such as sudden changes in behavior and/or verbalization suicidal thoughts and behavior to the assigned RN immediately.
  • Must report verbalizations and/or behaviors of; self-injury, harming others, self-harm or attempts to leave the hospital to the assigned RN immediately.
  • Demonstrates awareness of potentially hazardous items and informs all Medical Center personnel entering the patient's room to leave any hazardous items outside the room.
  • Assist patient with Activities of daily living (ADLS)
  • Continuously monitors environment for potentially hazardous items and reports presence of hazardous items to assigned RN.
  • Obtains assistance appropriately, according to situations:
  • Demonstrates awareness of:
  • The behaviors/verbalizations and patient issues that require reporting to the charge or assigned RN., and immediacy of need to report this information.
  • Manages emergency situations safely:
  • Reports emergency situations immediately and appropriately.
  • Intervenes with patient appropriately.
  • Responsibilities when patient is in restraints:
  • Performs safety checks by checking restrained extremities at least every 15 minutes for; restraint intact circulation, comfort, and body alignment.
  • Documents safety checks on the restraint observation and documentation record and/or medical/surgical flow sheet.
  • Notifies charge RN./assigned RN. if restraints need adjustment.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

Minimum Education:

High school diploma or equivalency.

Minimum Skills and Abilities:

Able to communicate verbally and in writing in the English Language.

Able to lift, transfer and move patients.

Required Certifications:

Must obtain an active BLS certification from American Heart Association by the time of start

Training:

Successful completion of 1:1 observation class.

Compensation Range:

$16.29- $24.21

This range offers an estimate based on the minimum job qualifications. However, our approach to determining base pay is comprehensive, and a broad range of factors is considered when making an offer. This includes education, experience, and licensure/certifications directly related to position requirements. In addition, BMCHS offers generous total compensation that includes, but is not limited to, benefits (medical, dental, vision, pharmacy), contract increases, Flexible Spending Accounts, 403(b) savings matches, earned time cash out, paid time off, career advancement opportunities, and resources to support employee and family wellbeing.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Disabled/Veterans

According to the FTC, there has been a rise in employment offer scams. Our current job openings are listed on our website and applications are received only through our website. We do not ask or require downloads of any applications, or "apps" job offers are not extended over text messages or social media platforms. We do not ask individuals to purchase equipment for or prior to employment.


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About Boston Medical Center

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Boston Medical Center (BMC) is more than a hospital. It's a network of support and care that touches the lives of hundreds of thousands of people in need each year. It is the largest and busiest provider of trauma and emergency services in New England. Emphasizing community-based care, BMC is committed to providing consistently excellent and accessible health services to all-and is the largest safety-net hospital in New England. The hospital is also the primary teaching affiliate of the nationally ranked Boston University School of Medicine (BUSM) and a founding partner of Boston HealthNet - an integrated health care delivery systems that includes many community health centers. Join BMC today and help us achieve our Vision 2030 which is a long-term goal to make Boston the healthiest urban population in the world.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Boston, MA, US

Year founded

1996