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Patient Observer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Waterbury Hospital

Patient Observer

Waterbury, CT · On-site

The Patient Observer provides continuous bedside monitoring and observation for assigned high risk patients to ensure safety and prevention of injury. The Patient Observer must react quickly to ...

Waterbury Hospital

Patient Observer

Waterbury, CT · On-site

The Patient Observer provides continuous bedside monitoring and observation for assigned high risk patients to ensure safety and prevention of injury. The Patient Observer must react quickly to ...

U Mass Memorial Health

Patient Observer

Webster, MA

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.

Waterbury Hospital

Patient Observer

Waterbury, CT

The Patient Observer provides continuous bedside monitoring and observation for assigned high risk patients to ensure safety and prevention of injury. The Patient Observer must react quickly to ...

Waterbury Hospital

Patient Observer

Waterbury, CT · On-site

The Patient Observer provides continuous bedside monitoring and observation for assigned high risk patients to ensure safety and prevention of injury. The Patient Observer must react quickly to ...

University Hospitals

Patient Observer

Ravenna, OH · On-site

Maintains continuous observation of patient, performs room safety checks, and completes observation log. * Maintains patient safety by: direct supervision, reorienting and redirecting confused ...

Salem Hospital, Inc.

Patient Observer

Salem, MA

The Patient Observer provides constant observation for patients identified as a risk to themselves or others. The Patient Observer functions under the direction of the registered nurse responsible ...

Prisma Health

Patient Observer

Greer, SC · On-site

Job Summary Assumes responsibility for constant observation and ensures patient's safety while actively preventing self-harm or harm to others. Assists with meeting limited patient needs under the ...

Prisma Health

Patient Observer

Easley, SC · On-site

Job Summary Assumes responsibility for constant observation and ensures patient's safety while actively preventing self-harm or harm to others. Assists with meeting limited patient needs under the ...

Prisma Health

Patient Observer

Greer, SC · On-site

Job Summary Assumes responsibility for constant observation and ensures patient's safety while actively preventing self-harm or harm to others. Assists with meeting limited patient needs under the ...

Massgeneralbrigham

Patient Observer

Salem, MA

$17.71 - $23.55/hr

The Patient Observer functions under the direction of the registered nurse responsible for providing specific care-related tasks in accordance with the individualized needs of the patient. All ...

Waterbury Hospital

Patient Observer

Waterbury, CT

The Patient Observer provides continuous bedside monitoring and observation for assigned high risk patients to ensure safety and prevention of injury. The Patient Observer must react quickly to ...

Mass General Brigham

Patient Observer

Salem, MA · On-site

$17.71 - $23.55/hr

The Patient Observer functions under the direction of the registered nurse responsible for providing specific care-related tasks in accordance with the individualized needs of the patient. All ...

Mass General Brigham

Patient Observer

Salem, MA

$17.71 - $23.55/hr

The Patient Observer functions under the direction of the registered nurse responsible for providing specific care-related tasks in accordance with the individualized needs of the patient. All ...

Umass Memorial Health

Patient Observer

Southbridge, MA · On-site

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.

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How much do patient observer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for patient observer in the United States is $16.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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 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
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Patient Observer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Patient Observer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 11% Locum Tenens, 1% Internship, 26% As Needed, 2% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 59% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,764 per year, or $16.7 per hour.
Patient Observer

Patient Observer

Waterbury Hospital

Waterbury, CT • On-site

Part-time

Posted 20 days ago

Waterbury Hospital rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

203rd of 992 rated hospitals

Job description

The Patient Observer provides continuous bedside monitoring and observation for assigned high risk patients to ensure safety and prevention of injury. The Patient Observer must react quickly to behavioral changes and notify nursing staff (or applicable) of unsafe, changing behaviors or abnormal conditions. The observations would be required in the Emergency Department.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Observes one or more assigned high risk patients for harmful, dangerous, or violent behaviors
  • Remains with the patient at all times, including when the patient leaves room/unit for procedures, testing, and lavatory or upon transfer to other unit as required
  • Does not leave patient(s) unattended unless relieved by another staff member or if the patient was transferred to a unit
  • Communicates with RNs (or applicable) to understand patient limitations before and during each assignment
  • Provides a continuous line of sight with the patient(s)
  • Remains alert and engaged with patient(s) for extended periods of time
  • Verbally intervenes to calm or de-escalate patient(s); must diffuse aggressive behavior or prevent escalation of conflict
  • Notifies nursing staff in real time of changing or unusual conditions and or behaviors as needed.
  • Maintains a safe environment for patient area(s)
  • Performs skills and procedures specific to the role proficiently in accordance with departmental competencies and procedures
  • Documents observation notes as required and as needed
  • Maintains patient(s) confidentiality
  • Perform other related duties as required

REQUIREMENTS:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent required
  • Previous patient care experience desired and/or one year prior experience, law/ correctional enforcement officer, or in a mental/behavioral health role preferred.
  • Good oral and written communication as well interpersonal skills is a must
  • Must possess strong observation skills
  • Must react quickly to sudden, stressful situations while maintaining a calm composure
  • Ability to maintain patient confidentiality and uphold all HIPAA requirements
  • Physical requirements include grabbing, lifting, pulling, pushing, standing, walking and running; May sit or stand for extended periods of time
  • Potential of occupational exposure such as blood or mucous and other potentially infectious materials during the performance of duties
  • Ensures hand washing when entering and leaving patient rooms
  • Ability to take call and arrive at hospital within one hour or less with short notice
  • Must complete all Waterbury Hospital mandated trainings, safety and compliance assignments
  • Must have basic computer skills and ability to access internet and other programs applicable to Waterbury Hospital procedures

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