Patient Observer Program
Patient Observer Program
Patient observers (sitters) provide observation and supportive intervention to patients in need of individually focused attention and/or any patient awaiting psychiatric evaluation and clearance.
Patient observer (sitter) responsibilities for medical/surgical and behavioral health patients
• The sitter will introduce self to patient and let the patient know he or she is assigned to the patient for the shift. When talking to the patient, the sitter will maintain a calm manner, avoid talking about his or her personal life, and will not give advice. The sitter will refer questions regarding the patient’s condition to the RN.
• The sitter will maintain constant observation of the patient at all times.
• The sitter will be aware of the patient’s schedule. He or she will understand what he or she can and cannot do in terms of providing patient care.
• The sitter will not leave for breaks or meals until relieved by the RN or her designated replacement.
• The sitter will use a call bell, buzzer, or yell to get additional staff support if he or she feels that he or she or the patient is in jeopardy.
• The sitter will notify the RN of any changes in the patient’s behavior.
• The sitter will remain with the patient during family visiting, unless directed otherwise by the RN.
• The patient is only allowed to sponge bathe and will be observed during this process.
• The patient must be directly observed when using the lavatory. If this is not possible, a commode or bedpan can be offered.
• The sitter will chart on the 15-minute observation flow sheet.
RN responsibilities
• The RN will introduce the sitter to the patient and orient him or her to the patient’s room.
• The RN will review the patient’s plan of care (e.g., diet, activity, tests/procedures) and will let the sitter know if he or she will be participating in any of these activities and inform the sitter of any special precautions.
• The RN will determine times and coverage for the sitter’s breaks and meals.
• The RN will show the sitter how to call for help or assistance.
• The RN will check in with the sitter at regular intervals to share information and note changes observed by the sitter.
• The RN will assess the need for other interventions such as medication, restraints, etc., and will evaluate the patient’s response to these interventions.
• The RN will coordinate a schedule of visiting by family with the sitter.
• The RN will document in the medical record each shift and will include information provided by the sitter. The RN will indicate that the patient was constantly observed in the patient’s record.
Source: St. Mary’s Hospital, Waterbury, CT.
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