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Patient Observer Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

PRN Healthcare

Travel Observation Unit RN

Rochester, NY · On-site

$39.25 - $51.75/hr

DOU - Direct Observation Unit * Discipline: RN * Start Date: 08/03/2026 * Duration: 13 weeks * 36 ... patient care - and this is all supported by a dedicated internal staff. Our company culture is ...

PRN Healthcare

Travel Observation Unit RN

Rochester, NY · On-site

$39.25 - $51.75/hr

DOU - Direct Observation Unit * Discipline: RN * Start Date: 08/03/2026 * Duration: 13 weeks * 36 ... patient care - and this is all supported by a dedicated internal staff. Our company culture is ...

PRN Healthcare

Travel Observation Unit RN

Rochester, NY · On-site

$39.25 - $51.75/hr

DOU - Direct Observation Unit * Discipline: RN * Start Date: 08/03/2026 * Duration: 13 weeks * 36 ... patient care - and this is all supported by a dedicated internal staff. Our company culture is ...

Highland Hospital

ASPN II-Observation Unit

Rochester, NY · On-site

$40.03 - $51/hr

Medical/Surgical Observation Unit 26-bed unit that cares for patients with an expected length of ... The Level II nurse supports peers in the delivery of patient care, uses appropriate team ...

Rochester Regional Health

Dosimetrist

Rochester, NY · On-site

$120K - $155K/yr

Prepares contours of patients, including all necessary patient measurements and landmarks as observed by the Director of Medical Physics. * Interfaces with CT to obtain magnetic tapes with patient ...

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Patient Observer information

See Rochester, NY salary details

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How much do patient observer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for patient observer in Rochester, NY 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 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 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 are patient observers and what do they 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 a Patient Observer?

A patient observer is a health care worker who observes or sits with a patient who needs specialized attention or monitoring. Patient observer duties are to ensure that the patient does not injure themselves and to quickly respond to patient care needs. In a hospital setting, the patient observer may sit with patients who are suicidal, disoriented, combative, or who can cause self-harm by pulling attached medical devices or leaving their beds. They will also care for patients who need assistance sitting up, moving, or performing simple tasks. Many patient observers have prior experience working in health care.

More about Patient Observer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Patient Observer jobs in Rochester, NY? The most popular types of Patient Observer jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What are popular job titles related to Patient Observer jobs in Rochester, NY? For Patient Observer jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Patient Observer jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Patient Observer job openings:
Patient Observer jobs near you

Registered Nurse (RN) - ED Observation / Float-Rochester, NY

HiredFirst

Rochester, NY • On-site

$2.3K - $2.5K/wk

Contractor

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Registered Nurse (RN) – ED Observation / Float

Location: Rochester, NY 14642
Pay: $2,300 – $2,500 per week
Start Date: 04/13/2026
Contract: Through 07/11/2026 (option to extend)
Schedule: Rotating Days/Evenings/Nights, weekends, holidays, on-call/callback as needed
Openings: 1

Position Overview:

We are seeking an experienced RN for the Emergency Department Observation Unit / Float Pool. This fast-paced unit provides care for patients requiring short-term observation to determine admission versus discharge, with a high patient turnover and diverse acuity levels.

Practice / Unit Details:

  • Observation unit with 20–27 patient turnover daily

  • Average length of stay: ~27 hours

  • 24/7 provider coverage

  • Mix of observation and admitted boarding patients

  • Adult patient population

  • Fast-paced, high-acuity environment

Key Responsibilities:

  • Provide care for patients in observation and ED boarding status

  • Monitor and assess patients for changes in condition

  • Administer medications and treatments per protocol

  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams for patient care planning

  • Support safe discharge or transition to inpatient admission

Schedule & Additional Info:

  • Rotating shifts (Days, Evenings, Nights)

  • Weekends, holidays, on-call, and callback required

  • May float based on unit needs

Requirements (Must Have):

  • Active NY State RN License (required)

  • Minimum 2 years Med/Surg experience

  • Telemetry experience required

  • BLS (AHA required)

Preferred Qualifications:

  • NIHSS certification (preferred)

  • Experience in observation or ED settings

Why This Opportunity:

  • Gain experience in a high-turnover, fast-paced observation unit

  • Exposure to a wide range of patient conditions

  • Strong clinical decision-making environment

  • Opportunity to extend contract