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Patient Observer Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

SPRINGFIELD VILLA

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Springfield, MO

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Records on patient charts observation of patient's responses to nursing care rendered * Maintains environmental conditions conducive to the comfort and safety of patients * Assists with unit ...

REPUBLIC NURSING & REHAB

Registered Nurse (RN)

Republic, MO

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Records on patient charts observation of patient's responses to nursing care rendered * Maintains environmental conditions conducive to the comfort and safety of patients * Assists with unit ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsPatient Observer JobsPatient Observer Jobs in Springfield, MO

Patient Observer information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$10

$15

$18

How much do patient observer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for patient observer in Springfield, MO is $15.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $16.20 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.

More about Patient Observer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Patient Observer jobs in Springfield, MO?

The most popular types of Patient Observer jobs in Springfield, MO are:

What are popular job titles related to Patient Observer jobs in Springfield, MO?

For Patient Observer jobs in Springfield, MO, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Patient Observer jobs in Springfield, MO look for?

The top searched job categories for Patient Observer jobs in Springfield, MO are:

What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Patient Observer jobs?

Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Patient Observer job openings:

Patient Observer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Patient Observer job openings in Springfield, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,619 per year, or $15.2 per hour.

Registered Nurse - 8E Observation - Full Time - Day Shift

CoxHealth

Springfield, MO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 13 days ago

CoxHealth rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 237 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

531st of 888 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Facility:
CoxHealth South: 3801 S National Ave, Springfield, Missouri, United States of America, 65807
Department:
1068 Observation Unit 800 E South
Scheduled Weekly Hours:
36
Hours:
6:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Work Shift:
Day Shift (United States of America)
CoxHealth is a leading healthcare system serving 25 counties across southwest Missouri and northern Arkansas. The organization includes six hospitals, 5 ERs, and over 80 clinics. CoxHealth has earned the following honors for workplace excellence:
  • Named one of Modern Healthcare's Best Places to work five times.
  • Named one of America's Greatest Workplaces, Greatest Workplaces in Healthcare (2025, 2026), Greatest Workplaces for Women (2023, 2024), and Greatest Workplaces for Diversity (2024) by Newsweek and Plant-A Insights Group.
  • Acknowledged by Forbes as one of the Best Employers for New Grads.
  • Healthcare Innovation's Top Companies to Work for in Healthcare (2025).

Benefits
  • Medical, Vision, Dental, Retirement with Employer Match and more (20+ hrs/week)
  • For a comprehensive list of benefits, please click here: Benefits | CoxHealth

Job Description:
Overview of Unit/Department
The 8E Observation Unit provides specialized care for patients requiring short-term monitoring, diagnostic evaluation, and treatment, with most stays lasting less than 48 hours. As a vital link between the emergency department, inpatient units, and outpatient services, the team facilitates efficient patient flow while ensuring safe, seamless transitions of care. Unlike a traditional medical-surgical unit, Observation nurses care for a rapidly changing patient population, requiring strong assessment skills, adaptability, and collaboration to support timely clinical decision-making and discharge planning. Known for its fast-paced environment and supportive team culture, 8E provides an engaging setting where nurses deliver personalized, goal-directed care while helping determine whether patients are ready for discharge or require inpatient admission
Additional Information About the Position for Qualified Candidates
$1.00 Certification pay
$1.00 BSN pay
Career Ladder Bonus eligible up to $5,000.00
Job Summary
The Registered Nurse is responsible for coordinating and managing the care of patients experiencing a variety of acute medical conditions and surgical diagnoses. The nurse assesses patient condition, administers medications and treatments, monitors patient response, performs clinical interventions, maintains accurate documentation, and provides education and support to patients and their families. Registered Nurses use strong clinical judgment and critical thinking to recognize changes in patient condition, collaborate with the interdisciplinary team, and facilitate timely progression of care. This role requires a broad knowledge base and the ability to provide safe, individualized care for a diverse patient population in a fast-paced environment.
Education
• Required: Graduate of an accredited nursing program or NLN approved program
• Preferred: Bachelor's Degree in Nursing
Experience:
• Preferred: Previous nursing experience
Skills:
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Demonstrate effective leadership abilities
• Exhibits valuable time management skills
• Strong critical thinking/problem solving skills.
• Flexibility and ability to work in a multi-tasking environment.
Licensure/Certification/Registration:
• Required: RN license active in the state of Missouri
Required: BLS must be obtained within 90 days of hire
Required: ACLS must be obtained within 1 year

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