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Patient Safety Observer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

The Patient Safety Companion exists to provide observation for the patient who requires close continuous observation for protection from harm. Employees will report directly to a unit or department ...

Patient safety attendants perform specific patient care activities as assigned by the patient's RN ... Patient must be in direct observation. Companions will arrange meal and break time with the patient ...

Patient safety attendants perform specific patient care activities as assigned by the patient's RN ... Patient must be in direct observation. Companions will arrange meal and break time with the patient ...

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Patient Safety Observer information

See Michigan salary details

$10

$14

$18

How much do patient safety observer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for patient safety observer in Michigan is $14.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.22 and $15.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a patient safety observer?

Patient Safety Observers, sometimes called 'sitters,' are healthcare professionals responsible for continuously monitoring patients who are at risk of harming themselves or others. They play a critical role in ensuring patient safety by providing direct supervision, recognizing changes in patient behavior, and alerting medical staff if intervention is needed. Their duties may include assisting with basic patient needs, documenting observations, and maintaining a safe environment. Patient Safety Observers work closely with nurses and other healthcare providers to support the overall care plan.

What is the difference between Patient Safety Observer vs Patient Care Assistant?

AspectPatient Safety ObserverPatient Care Assistant
Required credentialsMinimal; often no formal certification neededCPR certification, basic healthcare training
Work environmentHospitals, clinics, surgical areasHospitals, nursing homes, long-term care facilities
Employer usageUsed to monitor patient safety during proceduresProvides direct patient care and assistance
Common search intentUnderstanding monitoring roles in healthcareAssisting with patient needs and daily activities

The Patient Safety Observer primarily focuses on monitoring patient safety during procedures, requiring minimal credentials. In contrast, the Patient Care Assistant provides direct patient care, often with basic healthcare certifications. Both roles are vital in healthcare settings but serve different functions related to patient safety and assistance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a patient safety observer?

To thrive as a Patient Safety Observer, you need a keen attention to detail, basic healthcare knowledge, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hospital safety protocols, electronic monitoring systems, and incident reporting tools is often required. Strong observation skills, patience, and effective verbal communication help you promptly identify and report patient safety concerns. These skills are crucial to ensure patient well-being and maintain a safe healthcare environment by preventing accidents or adverse events.

What are the main challenges patient safety observers face when monitoring patients, and how can they effectively address them?

Patient Safety Observers often encounter challenges such as maintaining continuous attention during long shifts and effectively communicating any changes in patient behavior to the clinical team. To address these challenges, observers use active observation strategies, take scheduled breaks when possible, and follow clear protocols for escalation. Consistent collaboration with nursing staff and participating in regular training updates can also help improve response times and ensure patient safety.
What are popular job titles related to Patient Safety Observer jobs in Michigan? For Patient Safety Observer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Patient Safety Observer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Patient Safety Observer jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Patient Safety Observer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Patient Safety Observer job openings:
Infographic showing various Patient Safety Observer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,300 per year, or $14.6 per hour.

Patient Safety Companion

MyMichigan Health

Alpena, MI • On-site

Temporary

Re-posted 13 days ago


MyMichigan Health rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 183 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

603rd of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Summary
This is for fall 26' ADN students
MyMichigan/ACC Nursing Program Tuition Coverage Program Position Summary:
This position is designed for Alpena Community College Nursing students currently enrolled in the Clinical Nursing Program. Employees in this program will work as either Patient Safety Companions or Patient Care Technician based on eligibility and progress in nursing program throughout the duration of their nursing education at ACC. The Patient Safety Companion exists to provide observation for the patient who requires close continuous observation for protection from harm. Employees will report directly to a unit or department leader, receiving high level oversight. The Clinical Assistant's role is to assist the Registered Nurse (RN) and Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in ensuring the patient is safe, comfortable and clean.
Responsibilities
A Day in the Life of a Patient Safety Companion at MyMichigan Health:
  • (20%)* As directed by the RN: provides stand by assistance during patient ambulation, accompanies the patient when being transported to other departments; assists the patient with tasks that aren't required to be performed by the RN or Care Assistant such as assisting with meals if directed by RN.
  • (25%)* Maintains a calm, clean, and safe environment. Follows the appropriate level of safety precautions and PPE utilization while observing the patient. Maintains confidentiality.
  • (20%)* Documents observations accurately and timely as directed by the RN.
  • (20%)* Immediately communicates significant information to the RN such as changes in the patient's behavior or condition. Follows emergency procedures in the event of any emergency situation such as an accident, injury, or significant change in the patient's condition.
  • (20%)* Remains awake, alert, calm, and professional, staying in constant view of the patient at all times and focused on the patient at all times.

A Day in the Life of a Patient Care Technician at MyMichigan Health:
  • (20%)* Assesses the need for assisting with neonatal, pediatric, adolescent, adult, and geriatric patient care and performing other patient related tasks, recognizing the specific individual needs based on patient age groups unique to assigned unit(s).
  • (20%)* Plans and prioritizes patient care functions to meet patients' health care needs.
  • (20%)* Implements actions that compliment and support nursing care.
  • (20%)* Evaluates the effectiveness of care provided to ensure quality care and patient related issues are completed in a timely manner.
  • (20%)* Self-Management and accountability for delivery of responsible patient care, demonstrates effective communication skills and interpersonal relationships. Assumes responsibility for own continued development and assists with the development of other staff members.

Certifications and Licensures
N/A
Required Education
  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Current enrollment in ACC Nursing Program.
  • CNA, LPN, EMT, MA, or PCT certification or completion of one semester of nursing clinical education required for Patient Care Technician position.

Other Information
Other Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Computer experience required.
  • Good organizational skills, a team player and ability to work under high pressure.
  • Ability to exercise good judgment.
  • Interpersonal skills needed to communicate successfully with individuals and groups and interact with people at all levels to communicate ideas and concepts in a clear and understandable manner.
  • Operate equipment as outlined on orientation checklists, policies, and procedures.
  • Participate in equipment in-services and competencies as they relate to role expectations.
  • Perform job skills outlined on orientation checklist as they relate to role expectations.

*NOTE: PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS MAY BE APPLICABLE WITH THIS POSITION.
Refer to job description for a complete list of requirements.

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