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Patient Safety Observer Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

$16 - $21.75/hr

Provides direct observation of patients placed on Suicide/Self Destructive Behavior or other ... Performs regular checks of the patient environment to maintain safety and observes patient for ...

PATIENT TRANSPORTER

Middleburg Heights, OH · On-site

$15 - $20.25/hr

Responsible for constant, basic behavior observation and assistance for non-clinical, patient care, safety and services under the direction of nursing personnel. Responsibilities: * Utilizes ...

PATIENT TRANSPORTER

Middleburg Heights, OH · On-site

$15 - $20.25/hr

Responsible for constant, basic behavior observation and assistance for non-clinical, patient care, safety and services under the direction of nursing personnel. Responsibilities: * Utilizes ...

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Patient Safety Observer information

See Ohio salary details

$10

$15

$19

How much do patient safety observer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for patient safety observer in Ohio is $15.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.38 and $16.92 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Patient Safety Observer jobs in Ohio?

For Patient Safety Observer jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Patient Safety Observer jobs in Ohio look for?

The top searched job categories for Patient Safety Observer jobs in Ohio are:

Infographic showing various Patient Safety Observer job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,050 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Patient Safety Observer - PRN

Wooster Community Hospital

Wooster, OH • On-site

$12/hr

Other

Re-posted 28 days ago


Wooster Community Hospital rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

553rd of 1,060 rated hospitals


Job description

Patient Safety Observer-PRN

Must be willing to work at least 72 hours per 3 month period

MAIN FUNCTION:

Assists nurses in maintaining patient safety as directed by RN / LPN. Provides ongoing one-on-one supervision for an assigned patient, working closely with nursing, to alert them of any needs or concerns immediately. Documents observations in the medical record according to Wooster Community Hospital policy. Acts in compliance with hospital, Nursing Department policies / procedures and Service Standards as outlined in the Employee Handbook.

RESPONSIBLE TO: Department Manager, Charge Nurse, RN, LPN

MUST HAVE REQUIREMENTS:

  • Desire to assist with patient care/safety
  • 18 years of age or greater
  • Completed mandatory education/training offered by Wooster Community Hospital on suicide precautions. Education must be completed prior to serving as a patient safety observer and on an annual basis
  • Cell phone capable of receiving text messages. Must commit to receiving text message notifications for available openings

COMMITMENT:

  • Expected to commit to 72 hours per 3-month period
  • Eligible to transfer to other Wooster Community Hospital positions after 6 months of employment

PREFERRED ATTRIBUTES:

  • Strong customer service philosophy


OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

Employees in this position may be:

  • Exposed to blood, body fluids and/or airborne pathogens and are required to wear barriers
  • Employees in this position must be able to push, pull, lift, carry, turn, crouch, and bend as necessary to complete nursing care tasks
  • Exposure to restless and agitated patients


POSITION EXPECTATIONS:

All expectations detailed below are considered ADA (American Disabilities Act) Essential.


  1. Maintains appropriate skills
  • Reports abnormal observations and specific problems immediately
  • Observes patient for safety and reports to RN
  1. Does not leave patient unattended
  1. Documents observations in the medical record according to Wooster Community Hospital policy at defined intervals
  2. Under the direction of licensed Nursing Staff:
  • Provide comfort measures
  • Follow infection control guidelines and safety precautions
  • Assists with fluid and nutritional needs of the patient
  • Maintain fall prevention strategies
  • Uses appropriate personal protective equipment
  1. Requests relief for breaks, etc. Does not leave patient unattended.
  2. Interacts appropriately with WCH customers (patients, family visitors, staff)
  • Maintains patient’s modesty/dignity/confidentiality
  • Provides diversion activities as directed by licensed nursing staff
  • Tells patient exactly what is expected
  • Allows patient choices with consideration to patient safety
  • Speaks slowly and directly to patient in simple terms




1/2024



PRN position, as needed based on patient need
Must be willing to commit to 72 hours per 3-month period
PRN position, as needed based on patient need
Must be willing to commit to 72 hours per 3-month period

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