Job Description

General Summary

Functions in a dependent role under the direct supervision of the Registered Nurse. The Safety Companion’s primary role is to supplement the nursing staff by providing observational skills to selected patients who are deemed to be a safety risk to self or others. This role may be performed via direct observation or via the use of audio/visual devices. The Safety Companion will provides continuous observation and surveillance of assigned patients to maintain patient safety. Verbally redirects the patient from engaging in risky and harmful behaviors. Summons the nursing staff if the patient requires assistance via appropriate communication tools phone, or STAT Alert Alarm (if audio/visual devise in use). Knowledgeable and supportive of patient and Institutional confidentiality and related hospital policies.

Mission

All employees are responsible for extending the mission and values of Baltimore Washington Medical Center by dedicating oneself to providing the highest quality healthcare services to the communities we serve.

Reporting Relationships

Reports to the nurse manager.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent required.
• Ability to read and write required.
• Successful completion of Hospital Training Program required.
• BLS required.
• Basic computer operations skills recommended.
• Ability to communicate with hospital staff and respond to patient behavioral changes.
• Ability to prioritize simultaneous situations required. Ability to work with others as a member of the health care team.
• Ability to use discretion and courtesy when working with patients, visitors, and staff.
• Prior nursing experience desirable.

Working Conditions

Works in a clean, fast-paced environment, with frequent interruptions. Potential for high-risk exposure to communicable diseases and hazardous materials requiring the observance of Standard (Universal) Precautions and safe handling practices.

Physical Requirements

Ability to communicate with hospital staff and respond to patient behavioral changes. Ability to prioritize simultaneous situations required. Ability to work with others as a member of the health care team. Ability to use discretion and courtesy when working with patients, visitors, and staff. Prior experience in an acute care/hospital setting preferred. Ability to read and write required Standing, sitting, bending, and walking is required five (5) to seven (7) hours/shift. Requires hearing, visual acuity, and attention to detail. May require positioning of patients, weighing in excess of 100 lbs., with the assistance of others when needed, and utilizing proper body mechanics, approximately 50-75% of the time, in accordance with Safe Patient Lifting policy. Requires appropriate listening and speaking skills to converse with patients, staff, visitors and physicians five (5) to eight (8) hours/day. Ability to communicate effectively with patients using a microphone, headset, and computer. Ability to fill out forms for the patient’s medical record as needed related to observation of patient.

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.