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Patient Observer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

No Worries Care Everett

Home Care Aid

Bothell, WA

$22 - $28/hr

Observe and report changes in patient condition or behavior to care team * Perform light housekeeping * Follow prescribed care plans and document services provided accurately * Support patients ...

No Worries Care Renton

Caregiver

Seattle, WA

$22 - $28/hr

Observe and report changes in patient condition or behavior to care team * Perform light housekeeping * Follow prescribed care plans and document services provided accurately * Support patients ...

CommonSpirit Health

Patient Care Tech

Seattle, WA · On-site

$18.25 - $24/hr

... vital signs, observation and reporting of signs and symptoms of disease state, posturals, and simple dressing changes. You will also assist in patient mobility such as ambulating, turning ...

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All JobsPatient Observer JobsPatient Observer Jobs in Seattle, WA

Patient Observer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$13

$19

$23

How much do patient observer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for patient observer in Seattle, WA is $19.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.21 and $20.24 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 Seattle, WA? The most popular types of Patient Observer jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Patient Observer jobs in Seattle, WA? For Patient Observer jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Patient Observer jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Patient Observer jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Patient Observer jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Patient Observer job openings:
Patient Observer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Patient Observer job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Locum Tenens, 43% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,561 per year, or $19 per hour.

Advanced Patient Care Technician (NA-C) with Telemetry Experience

MLee Medical Employment

Vashon, WA • On-site

$18.75 - $22.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Join a dynamic healthcare team in the Pacific Northwest region, providing compassionate and skilled patient care in a supportive environment. This role involves delivering routine daily care under the guidance of Registered Nurses, ensuring patients receive attentive and timely assistance.
Job Summary
As an Advanced Patient Care Technician, you will perform a variety of clinical and technical tasks including CPR, vital signs monitoring, telemetry patient observation, EKG acquisition, phlebotomy, wound care, and assisting with procedures. You will also support patients with personal care activities such as bathing, dressing, mobility, and meal assistance, while maintaining a clean and safe environment.
Key Responsibilities

  • Provide direct patient care within the scope of a Certified Nursing Assistant license.
  • Monitor and document patient conditions, assist with cardiac monitoring and telemetry.
  • Support patient comfort through hygiene, pain relief measures, and therapeutic ambulation.
  • Assist with administrative duties including accurate documentation and scheduling of tests and procedures.
  • Maintain unit supplies and ensure infection control protocols are followed.
  • Collaborate effectively with healthcare team members to promote positive patient experiences.
Education and Experience
  • High School Diploma or equivalent required; Associate degree preferred.
  • Completion of a state-approved Certified Nursing Assistant program.
  • One to two years of patient care experience, preferably in an acute care setting.
  • Telemetry experience is highly desirable.
Licenses and Certifications
  • Certified Nursing Assistant (NA-C) license.
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
  • Medical Assistant Phlebotomy certification preferred.
Skills and Abilities
  • Strong knowledge of patient care practices and ability to maintain required competencies.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with a compassionate approach.
  • Proficiency with electronic medical records and medical telemetry equipment.
  • Detail-oriented with strong organizational and prioritization skills.

Work Environment
This full-time position involves 12-hour shifts within a 40-hour workweek. Physical demands include frequent lifting, standing, walking, and occasional bending. The role requires adherence to safety and infection control standards.
Benefits
Comprehensive benefits package includes competitive compensation, medical, dental, vision coverage, retirement plans with employer contributions, tuition reimbursement, employee wellness programs, and more to support your professional growth and well-being.

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