PURPOSE OF POSITION The Patient Companion provides continuous, direct observation and supportive care to patients who are at risk for self-harm, harm to others, elopement, or other safety events. Under the direction of the registered nurse, the Patient Companion maintains a safe environment, uses therapeutic communication, and assists the care team in implementing individualized safety precautions in accordance with established policies, procedures, and training.
QUALIFICATIONS High school diploma, GED or equivalent. AHA healthcare provider training is recommended but not required (BLS). Basic computer skills are required.
Ability to maintain composure and use de-escalation techniques in high-pressure situations. Successful completion of facility-approved Crisis Prevention / De-escalation training (e.g., CPI/PMAB) within established onboarding timeframe and annually thereafter. Adheres to the hospital attendance policy and will make every effort to consistently be punctual when reporting to work and during daily activities.
RESPONSIBILITIES & EXPECTATIONS Under the direction of a registered nurse, the Patient Companion supports the interdisciplinary team by providing continuous observation, maintaining environmental safety, and assisting with basic needs while promoting dignity and respect. The Patient Companion does not provide independent clinical assessment, counseling, or restraint application; all interventions are performed per policy and under RN direction: Provide continuous 1:1 (or designated level) observation for patients on suicide/self-harm precautions, violence/aggression precautions, elopement precautions, or other ordered safety precautions.
Maintain line-of-sight observation as required; remain with the patient during transport, procedures, toileting, and other activities per ordered precautions and unit policy. Perform and document safety rounds/behavioral observations at the required frequency (e.g., every 15 minutes) in the patient’s medical record or approved paper/electronic tool. Implement environmental safety measures: remove or secure items that present ligature, sharps, ingestion, or weapon risks; report hazards immediately to the RN.
Assist the RN with admission safety processes per policy, including inventory of patient belongings and ensuring restricted items are secured/managed appropriately. Use therapeutic communication to support patients experiencing anxiety, agitation, confusion, hallucinations, or distress; redirect behavior and set respectful limits. Initiate de-escalation strategies within training scope; promptly notify the RN of escalating behavior, threats, attempts to leave, self-harm gestures, or changes in status.
Activate unit emergency response (call light/rapid response/security) as indicated by policy for imminent safety threats. Assist with activities of daily living and basic comfort measures within the scope of Patient Companion’s primary position (e.g., meal set-up, hydration, toileting, hygiene) while maintaining required observation. Support fall prevention and general safety initiatives including hourly rounding and timely response to call lights, as assigned.
Assist with safe ambulation/transfers as directed and within training; request additional staff/equipment when needed. Participate in milieu safety by maintaining a calm, respectful presence; limit stimuli when appropriate and follow unit visitor guidelines for safety. Communicate clearly and promptly with the RN and team regarding patient behavior, triggers, effective calming strategies, and safety concerns.
Commit to providing exceptional customer service to patients and visitors; convey an attitude of understanding, trust, and compassion for individuals. Commit to treating coworkers with respect and dignity and will follow non-negotiable standards to promote a consistent positive experience for patients, colleagues, and visitors. Complete house-wide mandatory education and maintain required certifications as applicable.
SKILLS Adheres to the hospital attendance policy and is punctual when reporting to work and during daily activities. Basic computer skills. Good communication, documentation, and teamwork skills.
Ability to use de-escalation techniques and maintain professional boundaries. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, identity, family status, gender, disability, or veteran status. WORKING CONDITIONS: Working hours vary according to departmental needs.
Works under the direct supervision of a registered nurse. Lunch periods will be assigned by the charge registered nurse. Requires full range of body motion which may include assisting with ambulation and transfers, manual and finger dexterity and eye-hand coordination.
Requires standing and walking for extended periods of time. Requires corrected vision and hearing to normal range. May require exposure to communicable disease, body fluids, toxic substances, and other potentially hazardous conditions common to a clinical environment, such as risk of falls, strains, or aggressive behavior.
Patient Companions will be working all shifts, weekends and holidays as needed.
Varied Shifts · FLEXIBLE