The Observation Unit is a fast-paced, high-energy team where no two days are the same. Caring for ... As a Level II Trauma Center, we are committed to delivering exceptional, patient-centered care when ...
Quick apply
The Observation Unit is a fast-paced, high-energy team where no two days are the same. Caring for ... As a Level II Trauma Center, we are committed to delivering exceptional, patient-centered care when ...
MGR, PATIENT FLOW
Falls Church, VA · On-site
$50K - $55K/yr
Environmental Services, Patient Transportation, Patient Observation, Healthcare Facilities Management, Sterile Processing Services, and Ambulatory EVS. Learn more at www.Crothall.com. Job Summary ...
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MGR, PATIENT FLOW
Falls Church, VA · On-site
$50K - $55K/yr
Environmental Services, Patient Transportation, Patient Observation, Healthcare Facilities Management, Sterile Processing Services, and Ambulatory EVS. Learn more at www.Crothall.com. Job Summary ...
PATIENT TRANSPORTER (FULL TIME AND PART TIME)
Fairfax, VA · On-site
$17/hr
... Observation, Facilities Management, Healthcare Technology Solutions, Ambulatory Services, and Sterile Processing. Job Summary Patient Transporter Facilitating Internal Hospital Patient Moves Summary:
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PATIENT TRANSPORTER (FULL TIME AND PART TIME)
Fairfax, VA · On-site
$17/hr
... Observation, Facilities Management, Healthcare Technology Solutions, Ambulatory Services, and Sterile Processing. Job Summary Patient Transporter Facilitating Internal Hospital Patient Moves Summary:
PATIENT TRANSPORTER (FULL TIME AND PART TIME)
Leesburg, VA · On-site
$17.50/hr
... Observation, Facilities Management, Healthcare Technology Solutions, Ambulatory Services, and Sterile Processing. Job Summary Patient Transporter Facilitating Internal Hospital Patient Moves Summary:
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PATIENT TRANSPORTER (FULL TIME AND PART TIME)
Leesburg, VA · On-site
$17.50/hr
... Observation, Facilities Management, Healthcare Technology Solutions, Ambulatory Services, and Sterile Processing. Job Summary Patient Transporter Facilitating Internal Hospital Patient Moves Summary:
... Observation, Facilities Management, Healthcare Technology Solutions, Ambulatory Services, and Sterile Processing. Job Summary Patient Transporter Facilitating Internal Hospital Patient Moves Summary:
... Observation, Facilities Management, Healthcare Technology Solutions, Ambulatory Services, and Sterile Processing. Job Summary Patient Transporter Facilitating Internal Hospital Patient Moves Summary:
... Observation, Facilities Management, Healthcare Technology Solutions, Ambulatory Services, and Sterile Processing. Job Summary Patient Transporter Facilitating Internal Hospital Patient Moves Summary:
... Observation, Facilities Management, Healthcare Technology Solutions, Ambulatory Services, and Sterile Processing. Job Summary Patient Transporter Facilitating Internal Hospital Patient Moves Summary:
PATIENT TRANSPORTER (FULL TIME AND PART TIME)
Fairfax, VA · On-site
$17/hr
... Observation, Facilities Management, Healthcare Technology Solutions, Ambulatory Services, and Sterile Processing. Job Summary Patient Transporter Facilitating Internal Hospital Patient Moves Summary:
PATIENT TRANSPORTER (FULL TIME AND PART TIME)
Fairfax, VA · On-site
$17/hr
... Observation, Facilities Management, Healthcare Technology Solutions, Ambulatory Services, and Sterile Processing. Job Summary Patient Transporter Facilitating Internal Hospital Patient Moves Summary:
PATIENT TRANSPORTER (FULL TIME AND PART TIME)
Leesburg, VA · On-site
$17.50/hr
... Observation, Facilities Management, Healthcare Technology Solutions, Ambulatory Services, and Sterile Processing. Job Summary Patient Transporter Facilitating Internal Hospital Patient Moves Summary:
PATIENT TRANSPORTER (FULL TIME AND PART TIME)
Leesburg, VA · On-site
$17.50/hr
... Observation, Facilities Management, Healthcare Technology Solutions, Ambulatory Services, and Sterile Processing. Job Summary Patient Transporter Facilitating Internal Hospital Patient Moves Summary:
... Observation, Facilities Management, Healthcare Technology Solutions, Ambulatory Services, and Sterile Processing. Job Summary Patient Transporter Facilitating Internal Hospital Patient Moves Summary:
... Observation, Facilities Management, Healthcare Technology Solutions, Ambulatory Services, and Sterile Processing. Job Summary Patient Transporter Facilitating Internal Hospital Patient Moves Summary:
PATIENT TRANSPORTER (FULL TIME AND PART TIME)
Alexandria, VA · On-site
$17/hr
... Observation, Facilities Management, Healthcare Technology Solutions, Ambulatory Services, and Sterile Processing. Job Summary Patient Transporter Facilitating Internal Hospital Patient Moves Summary:
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PATIENT TRANSPORTER (FULL TIME AND PART TIME)
Alexandria, VA · On-site
$17/hr
... Observation, Facilities Management, Healthcare Technology Solutions, Ambulatory Services, and Sterile Processing. Job Summary Patient Transporter Facilitating Internal Hospital Patient Moves Summary:
... Observation, Facilities Management, Healthcare Technology Solutions, Ambulatory Services, and Sterile Processing. Job Summary Patient Transporter Facilitating Internal Hospital Patient Moves Summary:
... Observation, Facilities Management, Healthcare Technology Solutions, Ambulatory Services, and Sterile Processing. Job Summary Patient Transporter Facilitating Internal Hospital Patient Moves Summary:
... Observation, Facilities Management, Healthcare Technology Solutions, Ambulatory Services, and Sterile Processing. Job Summary Patient Transporter Facilitating Internal Hospital Patient Moves Summary:
... Observation, Facilities Management, Healthcare Technology Solutions, Ambulatory Services, and Sterile Processing. Job Summary Patient Transporter Facilitating Internal Hospital Patient Moves Summary:
PATIENT TRANSPORTER (FULL TIME AND PART TIME)
Fairfax, VA · On-site
$17/hr
... Observation, Facilities Management, Healthcare Technology Solutions, Ambulatory Services, and Sterile Processing. Job Summary Patient Transporter Facilitating Internal Hospital Patient Moves Summary:
PATIENT TRANSPORTER (FULL TIME AND PART TIME)
Fairfax, VA · On-site
$17/hr
... Observation, Facilities Management, Healthcare Technology Solutions, Ambulatory Services, and Sterile Processing. Job Summary Patient Transporter Facilitating Internal Hospital Patient Moves Summary:
PATIENT TRANSPORTER (FULL TIME AND PART TIME)
Alexandria, VA · On-site
$17/hr
... Observation, Facilities Management, Healthcare Technology Solutions, Ambulatory Services, and Sterile Processing. Job Summary Patient Transporter Facilitating Internal Hospital Patient Moves Summary:
PATIENT TRANSPORTER (FULL TIME AND PART TIME)
Alexandria, VA · On-site
$17/hr
... Observation, Facilities Management, Healthcare Technology Solutions, Ambulatory Services, and Sterile Processing. Job Summary Patient Transporter Facilitating Internal Hospital Patient Moves Summary:
Patient Flow Manager - Overnight - Falls Church, VA
Falls Church, VA · On-site
$55K - $60K/yr
Environmental Services, Patient Transportation, Patient Observation, Healthcare Facilities Management, Sterile Processing Services, and Ambulatory EVS. Learn more at www.Crothall.com. Job Summary ...
Patient Flow Manager - Overnight - Falls Church, VA
Falls Church, VA · On-site
$55K - $60K/yr
Environmental Services, Patient Transportation, Patient Observation, Healthcare Facilities Management, Sterile Processing Services, and Ambulatory EVS. Learn more at www.Crothall.com. Job Summary ...
Environmental Services, Patient Transportation, Patient Observation, Healthcare Facilities Management, Sterile Processing Services, and Ambulatory EVS. Learn more at www.Crothall.com. Job Summary ...
Environmental Services, Patient Transportation, Patient Observation, Healthcare Facilities Management, Sterile Processing Services, and Ambulatory EVS. Learn more at www.Crothall.com. Job Summary ...
Environmental Services, Patient Transportation, Patient Observation, Healthcare Facilities Management, Sterile Processing Services, and Ambulatory EVS. Learn more at www.Crothall.com. Job Summary ...
Environmental Services, Patient Transportation, Patient Observation, Healthcare Facilities Management, Sterile Processing Services, and Ambulatory EVS. Learn more at www.Crothall.com. Job Summary ...
Patient Flow Manager - Overnight - Falls Church, VA
Falls Church, VA · On-site
$55K - $60K/yr
Environmental Services, Patient Transportation, Patient Observation, Healthcare Facilities Management, Sterile Processing Services, and Ambulatory EVS. Learn more at www.Crothall.com. Job Summary ...
Quick apply
Patient Flow Manager - Overnight - Falls Church, VA
Falls Church, VA · On-site
$55K - $60K/yr
Environmental Services, Patient Transportation, Patient Observation, Healthcare Facilities Management, Sterile Processing Services, and Ambulatory EVS. Learn more at www.Crothall.com. Job Summary ...
Urgent Need for Full time and Part-time Patient Sitter/Companion
Aldie, VA · On-site
$15 - $17/hr
Provide continuous one-on-one observation of assigned patient. * Ensure patient safety by preventing falls, wandering, or unsafe behaviors. * Reorient and calmly redirect confused or agitated ...
Quick apply
Urgent Need for Full time and Part-time Patient Sitter/Companion
Aldie, VA · On-site
$15 - $17/hr
Provide continuous one-on-one observation of assigned patient. * Ensure patient safety by preventing falls, wandering, or unsafe behaviors. * Reorient and calmly redirect confused or agitated ...
Patient Monitor Technician
Arlington, VA · On-site
The Patient Monitor Technician (PMT) is responsible for continuous video monitoring for patient ... One year of constant observation is preferred. Certification/Licensure: None.
Patient Monitor Technician
Arlington, VA · On-site
The Patient Monitor Technician (PMT) is responsible for continuous video monitoring for patient ... One year of constant observation is preferred. Certification/Licensure: None.
Patient Observer information
See Reston, VA salary details
$12 - $12.87
3% of jobs
$12.87 - $13.73
4% of jobs
$13.73 - $14.60
3% of jobs
$14.60 - $15.46
7% of jobs
$15.77 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$15.46 - $16.32
20% of jobs
The median wage is $16.94 / hr.
$16.32 - $17.19
17% of jobs
$17.19 - $18.05
20% of jobs
$18.07 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$18.05 - $18.92
11% of jobs
$18.92 - $19.78
5% of jobs
$19.78 - $20.64
2% of jobs
$20.64 - $21.51
7% of jobs
$12
$17
$21
How much do patient observer jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for patient observer in Reston, VA is $17.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is the difference between Patient Observer vs Patient Care Assistant?
| Aspect | Patient Observer | Patient Care Assistant |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | High school diploma or equivalent; training provided | High school diploma or equivalent; certification may be preferred |
| Work Environment | Hospitals, psychiatric facilities, or clinics; monitoring patients | Hospitals, nursing homes, or clinics; assisting with daily patient needs |
| Job Duties | Monitoring patients for safety, reporting changes | Assisting with hygiene, mobility, and basic care |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Healthcare facilities focusing on patient safety | Long-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 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.
More about Patient Observer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Patient Observer jobs in Reston, VA?
The most popular types of Patient Observer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Patient Observer jobs in Reston, VA?
For Patient Observer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Patient Observer jobs in Reston, VA look for?
The top searched job categories for Patient Observer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Patient Observer jobs?
Cities near Reston, VA with the most Patient Observer job openings:
$49.68 - $80.48/hr
Full-time
Re-posted 26 days ago
VHC Health rating
8.0
Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
87th of 887 rated healthcare providers
Job description
Overview
Launch your nursing career in one of the most dynamic and supportive environments at VHC Health! The Observation Unit is a fast-paced, high-energy team where no two days are the same. Caring for adult observation patients with 24–48 hour stays, nurses gain hands-on experience with Class I and II telemetry, pre- and post-operative surgical care, cardiac and diabetes monitoring, neuro checks, patient education, and mobility support all within a collaborative 15-bed unit that recently moved into a beautiful newly constructed space with plans to expand to 30 beds.
This unit is ideal for Registered Nurses who thrive in a teaching-focused environment and want to sharpen their clinical skills while working alongside an experienced, highly engaged team. Our Observation Unit partners closely with the Emergency Department to help mentor and develop new graduate nurses before they transition into the ED, making it an incredible place to build confidence and grow professionally. Teamwork and culture are at the heart of what we do, many staff members have been with the department for over five years, and our team enjoys monthly potlucks, strong camaraderie, and highly skilled clinical technicians who support patient care with phlebotomy and IV expertise. From charge nurse and preceptor development programs to opportunities to participate in unit-based councils and hospital-wide initiatives, the Observation Unit offers endless ways to grow your career while making a meaningful impact every day!
Located in Arlington, Virginia, VHC Health is a 548-bed, independent, not-for-profit health system and nationally recognized teaching hospital. We have proudly served the Washington, DC metropolitan community for more than 75 years. Consistently ranked among the top hospitals in Virginia and the region, VHC Health has earned recognition as a 2025 Forbes Best-In-State Employer and a 2025 Newsweek World’s Best Hospital. We also hold the prestigious Magnet® designation for nursing excellence. As a Level II Trauma Center, we are committed to delivering exceptional, patient-centered care when it matters most.
Responsibilities
At VHC Health, every role contributes to exceptional care, better outcomes, and stronger communities.\nIn addition to your base compensation, VHC Health offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage (subject to eligibility requirements), as well as additional wellness and retirement benefits designed to support our employees and their families.
\nVHC Health is committed to wage transparency and equitable pay practices. The compensation offered for this position—whether expressed as an annual salary or hourly rate—is determined based on a variety of legitimate, non-discriminatory factors. These factors include, but are not limited to, a candidate’s qualifications, relevant training and experience, skill level, shift differentials (where applicable), internal equity, and current market conditions.
\nThe posted hiring range reflects the range VHC Health, in good faith, believes is appropriate for this role at the time of posting. This range may be adjusted in the future based on business needs or market changes. No portion of compensation is considered earned until it is vested and determined in accordance with the terms of applicable policies and benefit plans. The availability and amount of any bonuses, incentives, or other benefits are subject to the terms of those plans and may be modified at the sole discretion of VHC Health, in accordance with applicable law.
\nVHC Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, pregnancy (including childbirth, pregnancy-related conditions and lactation), race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristics protected by law.
\nVHC Health maintains a drug-free workplace. The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, or use of a controlled substance is prohibited at all VHC Health locations.
Qualifications
Purpose & Scope:
The Assistant Patient Care Director is responsible for direction of the nursing unit (s) in coordination with the patient care director in concert with the goals of that unit according to the philosophy of the Division of Patient Care Services. The responsibility includes unit administration, direct nursing care and coordinating activities with ancillary departments. The assistant patient care director reports to the patient care director. An advanced competency level, knowledge of the nursing process, and consistently meeting or exceeding all criteria of the staff nurse performance appraisal tool is expected of assistant patient care directors.
Education:
Bachelor's degree in Nursing from an accredited School of Nursing required.
Experience:
One year of experience in nursing / patient care required.
One year of demonstrated leadership ability required.
Certification/Licensure:
Licensed as a Registered Nurse by the Virginia Department of Health Professions or Compact State Licensure in Nursing is required.
Certification in Area of Clinical Specialty is preferred.
BLS Certification is required.
Other Qualifications
Registered Nurses on designated units are required to maintain certain certifications. New to practice area nurses or new graduates have 1 year to complete the specialty requirements below.
ACLS: ED, ICU, CVICU, Cardiac Cath Lab, Cardiopulmonary Rehab, Bronch Suite, Interventional Radiology, Radiology Safety Nurses, Step down Units (3A, 3B, 4B), 6A, 6B, 7A, Labor and Delivery, Hemodialysis, Respiratory Therapy, Float pool, GI Unit, and PACU
PALS: PACU: Pediatric Nurses, ED
NRP: NICU, Mother Baby, Labor and Delivery
De-escalation training: BHU, ED
Per policy ACLS or PALS cards stand as showing competence in BLS Skills per American Heart Association Guidelines. If an employee holds current ACLS or PALS certification, this meets the requirement for BLS in their job description. They do not need to also carry a separate BLS certification.
What VHC Health employees say
Pay
Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
Get the full story on Breakroom
About VHC Health
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Health care and social assistance
Company size
1,001 - 5,000 Employees
Headquarters location
Arlington, VA, US
Year founded
1944