Position Title: Patient Observation Technician
Work Type: PRN / As Needed
The Patient Observation Technician provides continuous observation and monitoring of patients who are at risk for self-harm, injury, wandering, or other safety concerns, helping to maintain a safe, therapeutic, and supportive environment. Working under the direction of a registered nurse or other designated care team member, this role is responsible for observing patient behaviors, documenting observations accurately and timely, and promptly communicating changes in patient condition or behavior to the appropriate clinical staff.
Observation is primarily conducted through a hospital-based camera monitoring system, allowing for continuous monitoring while supporting patient privacy and safety. The Patient Observation Technician utilizes effective redirection and de-escalation techniques when appropriate and assists in promoting patient comfort, safety, and completion of basic activities of daily living. In this PRN (as needed) role, the technician provides flexible staffing support to help meet patient care and operational needs across the organization.
Through vigilant observation, strong communication, and adherence to established protocols, the Patient Observation Technician contributes significantly to patient safety, quality of care, and positive patient outcomes.
At UnityPoint Health, you matter. We’re proud to be recognized as a Top 150 Place to Work in Healthcare by Becker's Healthcare several years in a row for our commitment to our team members.
Our competitive Total Rewards program offers benefits options that align with your needs and priorities, no matter what life stage you’re in. Here are just a few:
- Expect paid time off, parental leave, 401K matching and an employee recognition program.
- Dental and health insurance, paid holidays, short and long-term disability and more. We even offer pet insurance for your four-legged family members.
- Early access to earned wages with Daily Pay, tuition reimbursement to help further your career and adoption assistance to help you grow your family.
With a collective goal to champion a culture of belonging where everyone feels valued and respected, we honor the ways people are unique and embrace what brings us together.
And, we believe equipping you with support and development opportunities is a vital part of delivering an exceptional employment experience.
Find a fulfilling career and make a difference with UnityPoint Health.
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Provides one-to-one (1:1) direct patient observation when assigned to sit with a patient in the room to help prevent self-injury, injury to others, or unsafe behaviors when the patient and/or family is unable to provide supervision.
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Participates in shift hand-off communication, providing and receiving pertinent information regarding assigned patients, observed behaviors, safety concerns, and care needs.
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Demonstrates safe work practices and behaviors by following organizational safety policies and procedures, helping to prevent unsafe conditions, and participating in department and organizational safety initiatives.
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Works collaboratively as part of the healthcare team by balancing individual responsibilities with team goals, maintaining an open and respectful approach to feedback, supporting coworkers, and contributing to a positive work environment focused on patient-centered care and organizational success.
High School graduate or GED.
Familiarity with healthcare environment preferred.
Basic computer skills required Writes, reads, comprehends and speaks fluent English.
Multicultural sensitivity.
Microsoft Office – basic computer skills.
Customer/patient focused.
Critical thinking skills using independent judgment in making decisions.