The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
Patient Safety Observer, Med/Surg & ED Patient Observers- 40 Hours/ Evenings
Southbridge, MA · On-site
$16 - $21.75/hr
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
Patient Safety Observer, Med/Surg & ED Patient Observers- 40 Hours/ Evenings
Southbridge, MA · On-site
$16 - $21.75/hr
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
Patient Safety Observer, Med/Surg & ED Patient Observers- 40 Hours/ Evenings
Webster, MA · On-site
$16 - $21.75/hr
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
Patient Safety Observer, Med/Surg & ED Patient Observers- 40 Hours/ Evenings
Webster, MA · On-site
$16 - $21.75/hr
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
Patient Safety Observer, Med/Surg & ED Patient Observers- 40 Hours/ Evenings
Southbridge, MA · On-site
$16 - $21.75/hr
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
Patient Safety Observer, Med/Surg & ED Patient Observers- 40 Hours/ Evenings
Southbridge, MA · On-site
$16 - $21.75/hr
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
Patient Safety Observer, Med/Surg & ED Patient Observers- 40 Hours/ Evenings
Southbridge, MA · On-site
$16 - $21.75/hr
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
Patient Safety Observer, Med/Surg & ED Patient Observers- 40 Hours/ Evenings
Southbridge, MA · On-site
$16 - $21.75/hr
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
Patient Safety Observer, Med/Surg & ED Observers- 36 Hours, Nights
Southbridge, MA · On-site
$16 - $21.75/hr
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
Patient Safety Observer, Med/Surg & ED Observers- 36 Hours, Nights
Southbridge, MA · On-site
$16 - $21.75/hr
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
Patient Safety Observer, Med/Surg & ED Observers- 36 Hours, Nights
Southbridge, MA · On-site
$17.50 - $21.75/hr
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
Patient Safety Observer, Med/Surg & ED Observers- 36 Hours, Nights
Southbridge, MA · On-site
$17.50 - $21.75/hr
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
Patient Safety Observer, Med/Surg & ED Observers- 36 Hours, Nights
Webster, MA · On-site
$17.50 - $21.75/hr
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
Patient Safety Observer, Med/Surg & ED Observers- 36 Hours, Nights
Webster, MA · On-site
$17.50 - $21.75/hr
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
Patient Safety Observer, Med/Surg & ED Observers- 36 Hours, Nights
Southbridge, MA · On-site
$17.50 - $21.75/hr
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
Patient Safety Observer, Med/Surg & ED Observers- 36 Hours, Nights
Southbridge, MA · On-site
$17.50 - $21.75/hr
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort.
Patient Care Assistant Per Diem
Newton, MA · On-site
$20.58 - $25.28/hr
... patient observation for safety purposes, and phlebotomy. Assist RNs and physicians with other exams and treatments as required. -Completes all documentation such as height, weight, intake of fluids ...
Patient Care Assistant Per Diem
Newton, MA · On-site
$20.58 - $25.28/hr
... patient observation for safety purposes, and phlebotomy. Assist RNs and physicians with other exams and treatments as required. -Completes all documentation such as height, weight, intake of fluids ...
Patient Care Assistant Per Diem
Newton, MA · On-site
$20.58 - $25.28/hr
... patient observation for safety purposes, and phlebotomy. Assist RNs and physicians with other exams and treatments as required. -Completes all documentation such as height, weight, intake of fluids ...
Patient Care Assistant Per Diem
Newton, MA · On-site
$20.58 - $25.28/hr
... patient observation for safety purposes, and phlebotomy. Assist RNs and physicians with other exams and treatments as required. -Completes all documentation such as height, weight, intake of fluids ...
Patient Care Associate - Per Diem
Newton, MA · On-site
$20.58 - $25.28/hr
... patient observation for safety purposes, and phlebotomy. Assist RNs and physicians with other exams and treatments as required. -Completes all documentation such as height, weight, intake of fluids ...
Patient Care Associate - Per Diem
Newton, MA · On-site
$20.58 - $25.28/hr
... patient observation for safety purposes, and phlebotomy. Assist RNs and physicians with other exams and treatments as required. -Completes all documentation such as height, weight, intake of fluids ...
Patient Care Assistant Per Diem
Newton, MA · On-site
$20.58 - $25.28/hr
... patient observation for safety purposes, and phlebotomy. Assist RNs and physicians with other exams and treatments as required. -Completes all documentation such as height, weight, intake of fluids ...
Patient Care Assistant Per Diem
Newton, MA · On-site
$20.58 - $25.28/hr
... patient observation for safety purposes, and phlebotomy. Assist RNs and physicians with other exams and treatments as required. -Completes all documentation such as height, weight, intake of fluids ...
Patient Observer information
See Worcester, MA salary details
$11.51 - $12.34
3% of jobs
$12.34 - $13.17
4% of jobs
$13.17 - $14
3% of jobs
$14 - $14.83
7% of jobs
$15.12 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$14.83 - $15.66
20% of jobs
The median wage is $16.25 / hr.
$15.66 - $16.49
17% of jobs
$16.49 - $17.31
20% of jobs
$17.33 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$17.31 - $18.14
11% of jobs
$18.14 - $18.97
5% of jobs
$18.97 - $19.80
2% of jobs
$19.80 - $20.63
7% of jobs
$11
$16
$20
How much do patient observer jobs pay per hour?
As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for patient observer in Worcester, MA is $16.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $17.74 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?
| 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.
More about Patient Observer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Patient Observer jobs in Worcester, MA?
For Patient Observer jobs in Worcester, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Patient Observer jobs in Worcester, MA look for?
The top searched job categories for Patient Observer jobs in Worcester, MA are:
What cities near Worcester, MA are hiring for Patient Observer jobs?
Cities near Worcester, MA with the most Patient Observer job openings:
Part-time
Re-posted 26 days ago
UMass Memorial Health rating
7.3
Based on 157 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
301st of 898 rated healthcare providers
Job description
Are you an internal caregiver, student, or contingent worker/agency worker at UMass Memorial Health? CLICK HERE to apply through your Workday account.
Exemption Status:
Non-Exempt
Hiring Range:
$15.00 - $21.16
Please note that the final offer may vary within this range based on a candidate's experience, skills, qualifications, and internal equity considerations.
Schedule Details:
Holidays - Every Other Holiday, Weekends - Every Other Weekend
Scheduled Hours:
1500-2330
Shift:
2 - Evening Shift, 8 Hours (United States of America)
Hours:
24
Cost Center:
24070 - 0610 Psych Ip Geriatric
This position may have a signing bonus available a member of the Recruitment Team will confirm eligibility during the interview process.
Everyone Is a Caregiver
At UMass Memorial Health, everyone is a caregiver - regardless of their title or responsibilities. Exceptional patient care, academic excellence and leading-edge research make UMass Memorial the premier health system of Central Massachusetts, and a place where we can help you build the career you deserve. We are more than 20,000 employees, working together as one health system in a relentless pursuit of healing for our patients, community and each other. And everyone, in their own unique way, plays an important part, every day.
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort. As part of the care team the Patient Observer may be asked to participate in supporting the patients with their activities of daily living, including, but not limited to, ambulating, feeding, and repositioning of patients as directed by nursing. The Patient Safety Observer may engage with the patients if appropriate and can use casual talk, sensory box including cards, coloring books, games. All care is to be documented and communicated through report with the designated staff member. All issues/concerns are to be reported immediately to the licensed clinical charge person.
I. Major Responsibilities:
1. Develops and maintains good human relations skills. Introduces self by name to the patient and engages in eye contact. Consistently displays a respectful, empathetic and caring attitude toward both the patients and their family members.
2. Consistently observes for suicidal and/or violent behavior. Stays in close proximity of the patient and keeps them in the visual field at all times. Ensures patient safety at all times including while in the bathroom and when transported to other departments.
3. Monitor visitors to ensure no unsafe materials are shared with the patient (weapons, illicit drugs, sharps).
4. Maintains 15-minute checks with documentation unless otherwise directed.
5. Patient Safety Observers can monitor more than 1 patient if deemed appropriate by the licensed staff in charge.
6. Follow the directions of the nurse in charge.
7. May transport patients if directed by the licensed staff in charge.
8. When not observing a patient the patient safety observer can be used for other ancillary activities as directed by the nursing supervisor (making beds in the ED, stocking, assisting with transporting patients).
9. Functions in a float position and is assigned to the areas with patient needs.
10. Maintains patient dignity at all times and advocates for the patient.
II. Position Qualifications:
License/Certification/Education:
Required:
1. High School diploma or equivalent.
2. CPR Certification within 6 months of hire.
Experience/Skills:
Preferred:
1. Previous position held in a healthcare setting preferred.
Unless certification, licensure or registration is required, an equivalent combination of education and experience which provides proficiency in the areas of responsibility listed in this description may be substituted for the above requirements.
Department-specific competencies and their measurements will be developed and maintained in the individual departments. The competencies will be maintained and attached to the departmental job description. Responsible managers will review competencies with position incumbents.
III. Physical Demands and Environmental Conditions:
On-the-job time is spent in the following physical activities:
1. Stand - 1/3 to 2/3
2. Walk - 1/3 to 2/3
3. Sit - 2/3
4. Talk or hear - 2/3
5. Uses hands to finger, handle or feel - 2/3
6. Push/pull - 1/3 to 2/3
7. Stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl - 1/3 to 2/3
8. Reach with hands and arms - 2/3
This job requires that weight be lifted or force be exerted:
1. Up to 10 pounds - 2/3
2. Up to 25 pounds - 2/3
3. Up to 50 pounds - 2/3
4. Up to 100 pounds - 2/3
5. More than 100 pounds - 2/3
This job requires exposure to the following environmental conditions:
1. Wet, humid conditions (non-weather) - 1/3 to 2/3
2. Work near moving mechanical parts - 2/3
3. Risk of radiation - Up to 1/3
4. Infectious Diseases - 1/3 to 2/3
5. Physical +/or Verbal Abusiveness - 2/3
6. Rotating Shifts - Up to 1/3
7. PPE when indicated - 1/3 to 2/3
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.
We're striving to make respect a part of everything we do at UMass Memorial Health - for our patients, our community and each other. Our six Standards of Respect are: Acknowledge, Listen, Communicate, Be Responsive, Be a Team Player and Be Kind. If you share these Standards of Respect, we hope you will join our team and help us make respect our standard for everyone, every day.
As an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer, UMass Memorial Health recognizes the power of a diverse community and encourages applications from individuals with varied experiences, perspectives and backgrounds. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, gender identity and expression, protected veteran status or other status protected by law.
If you are unable to submit an application because of incompatible assistive technology or a disability, please contact us at talentacquisition@umassmemorial.org. We will make every effort to respond to your request for disability assistance as soon as possible.
Exemption Status:
Non-Exempt
Hiring Range:
$15.00 - $21.16
Please note that the final offer may vary within this range based on a candidate's experience, skills, qualifications, and internal equity considerations.
Schedule Details:
Holidays - Every Other Holiday, Weekends - Every Other Weekend
Scheduled Hours:
1500-2330
Shift:
2 - Evening Shift, 8 Hours (United States of America)
Hours:
24
Cost Center:
24070 - 0610 Psych Ip Geriatric
This position may have a signing bonus available a member of the Recruitment Team will confirm eligibility during the interview process.
Everyone Is a Caregiver
At UMass Memorial Health, everyone is a caregiver - regardless of their title or responsibilities. Exceptional patient care, academic excellence and leading-edge research make UMass Memorial the premier health system of Central Massachusetts, and a place where we can help you build the career you deserve. We are more than 20,000 employees, working together as one health system in a relentless pursuit of healing for our patients, community and each other. And everyone, in their own unique way, plays an important part, every day.
The Patient Safety Observer is responsible to provide continuous safety observation of patients to which they are assigned. The primary function in this role is to ensure patient safety and comfort. As part of the care team the Patient Observer may be asked to participate in supporting the patients with their activities of daily living, including, but not limited to, ambulating, feeding, and repositioning of patients as directed by nursing. The Patient Safety Observer may engage with the patients if appropriate and can use casual talk, sensory box including cards, coloring books, games. All care is to be documented and communicated through report with the designated staff member. All issues/concerns are to be reported immediately to the licensed clinical charge person.
I. Major Responsibilities:
1. Develops and maintains good human relations skills. Introduces self by name to the patient and engages in eye contact. Consistently displays a respectful, empathetic and caring attitude toward both the patients and their family members.
2. Consistently observes for suicidal and/or violent behavior. Stays in close proximity of the patient and keeps them in the visual field at all times. Ensures patient safety at all times including while in the bathroom and when transported to other departments.
3. Monitor visitors to ensure no unsafe materials are shared with the patient (weapons, illicit drugs, sharps).
4. Maintains 15-minute checks with documentation unless otherwise directed.
5. Patient Safety Observers can monitor more than 1 patient if deemed appropriate by the licensed staff in charge.
6. Follow the directions of the nurse in charge.
7. May transport patients if directed by the licensed staff in charge.
8. When not observing a patient the patient safety observer can be used for other ancillary activities as directed by the nursing supervisor (making beds in the ED, stocking, assisting with transporting patients).
9. Functions in a float position and is assigned to the areas with patient needs.
10. Maintains patient dignity at all times and advocates for the patient.
II. Position Qualifications:
License/Certification/Education:
Required:
1. High School diploma or equivalent.
2. CPR Certification within 6 months of hire.
Experience/Skills:
Preferred:
1. Previous position held in a healthcare setting preferred.
Unless certification, licensure or registration is required, an equivalent combination of education and experience which provides proficiency in the areas of responsibility listed in this description may be substituted for the above requirements.
Department-specific competencies and their measurements will be developed and maintained in the individual departments. The competencies will be maintained and attached to the departmental job description. Responsible managers will review competencies with position incumbents.
III. Physical Demands and Environmental Conditions:
On-the-job time is spent in the following physical activities:
1. Stand - 1/3 to 2/3
2. Walk - 1/3 to 2/3
3. Sit - 2/3
4. Talk or hear - 2/3
5. Uses hands to finger, handle or feel - 2/3
6. Push/pull - 1/3 to 2/3
7. Stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl - 1/3 to 2/3
8. Reach with hands and arms - 2/3
This job requires that weight be lifted or force be exerted:
1. Up to 10 pounds - 2/3
2. Up to 25 pounds - 2/3
3. Up to 50 pounds - 2/3
4. Up to 100 pounds - 2/3
5. More than 100 pounds - 2/3
This job requires exposure to the following environmental conditions:
1. Wet, humid conditions (non-weather) - 1/3 to 2/3
2. Work near moving mechanical parts - 2/3
3. Risk of radiation - Up to 1/3
4. Infectious Diseases - 1/3 to 2/3
5. Physical +/or Verbal Abusiveness - 2/3
6. Rotating Shifts - Up to 1/3
7. PPE when indicated - 1/3 to 2/3
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.
We're striving to make respect a part of everything we do at UMass Memorial Health - for our patients, our community and each other. Our six Standards of Respect are: Acknowledge, Listen, Communicate, Be Responsive, Be a Team Player and Be Kind. If you share these Standards of Respect, we hope you will join our team and help us make respect our standard for everyone, every day.
As an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer, UMass Memorial Health recognizes the power of a diverse community and encourages applications from individuals with varied experiences, perspectives and backgrounds. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, gender identity and expression, protected veteran status or other status protected by law.
If you are unable to submit an application because of incompatible assistive technology or a disability, please contact us at talentacquisition@umassmemorial.org. We will make every effort to respond to your request for disability assistance as soon as possible.
What UMass Memorial Health employees say
Pay
Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
Get the full story on Breakroom
About UMass Memorial Health
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Health care and social assistance
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Worcester, MA, US
Year founded
1871