Hire Patient Sitters
When loved ones are sick or distressed, we want to be by their side. We want to make sure that they are in a stable condition, eating well, getting enough rest, and getting better. When being present for a sick family member 24/7 may not be feasible, families can rely on dependable patient sitters to be there for them.
Also commonly referred to as hospital sitters or patient companions, patient sitters are valuable members of the healthcare team who work under the supervision of a registered nurse. For patients who need constant observation and help, patient sitters provide companionship and assistance to ensure their safety.
Hiring a patient sitter means recruiting and interviewing candidates who are compassionate, friendly, and service-oriented. Patient sitters work in a variety of healthcare settings like hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted-living facilities. In drafting a job description for a patient sitter role, hiring managers should clearly state the specific responsibilities and qualifications required, as well as information about the hiring healthcare facility. Through your job description, enable candidates to visualize themselves working in your organization. How would you describe the workplace culture? What benefits can candidates expect? Is there an opportunity for further training? As hiring managers, try your best to think like a job seeker.
Next, it’s time to post your job announcement on your company’s social media platforms and online hiring sites. Are there online communities or groups for healthcare workers? Make your job announcement visible in there, too.
Responsibilities of a patient sitter
Patient sitters keep a watchful eye on patients who need assistance and observation at all times. Before each shift, patient sitters receive instructions and guidelines from nurses. They must know the patient’s condition, status, data to report, what to look out for, and whom to call for any emergency. The patient sitter stays with the patient inside their room and observes the patient.
Patient sitters ensure that the patient’s environment is clean and safe and assist the patient in personal care, feeding, and mobility. They observe any changes in the patient’s condition and immediately report anything suspicious or significant to the nurse on duty. When patients share their feelings or concerns, the Patient Sitter offers support and communicates relevant information to the nurse.
Additionally, patient sitters record their observations, data, and notes on the patients. Depending on company policy, patient sitters may record the patient’s vital signs, intake, and output during their shift. Lastly, patient sitters follow health and safety regulations, hospital rules and policies, and uphold the confidentiality of patient information.
Skills and qualifications of a patient sitter
The ideal candidate for a patient sitter is patient, friendly, helpful, and compassionate. Active listening and strong communication skills are essential as patient sitters listen to patient concerns and relay information to medical staff. Also, candidates need to meet the physical demands of the job, spending most of their shift on their feet, assisting patients, and helping them move around.
Candidates must have at least a high school diploma or GED. Healthcare facilities usually offer training on patient care, taking vital signs, and other relevant skills.
The work of patient sitters requires both specialized skills and a heart for service. When family members cannot be with their sick loved ones, patient sitters provide much-needed companionship and assistance.
