PRN Patient Care Observer - Float Pool Unit @ Penn Presbyterian Medical Center

Responsibilities:

• Identifies patient using 2 patient identifiers according to PPMC policy before carrying out functions.
• Carries out PPMC fire and safety regulations.
• Promotes infection control:
• Performs proper hand hygiene, both before and after patient contact. Maintains universal precautions.
• Carries out isolation procedures according to Infection Control Manual. Deals with blood and body fluids according to universal barrier precautions policy.
• Reports needle stick injuries to charge nurse.
• Reports exposure of communicable diseases and infections.
• Demonstrates awareness of OSHA (Occupational Health and Safety Administration regulations).
• Maintains safe environment and protects patients from injury.
• Performs 1:1 observation according to PPMC policy. - Accompanies patient when leaving the unit (i.e., to radiology).
• Does not leave patient unless relieved by another staff member.
• Places call bell within patient’s reach.
• Utilizes safety devices including bed rails, wheel locks on beds, wheelchairs and litters, and bed alarms.
• Notifies RN if tubes/IV catheters become disconnected.
• Reports defective equipment to charge nurse.
• Awareness of Materials Safety Data Sheet.
• Makes unoccupied bed
• Data Collection, documentation, and handoff communication
• During report from RN, documents the following information on patient observation worksheet:
• Patient Data.
• Pertinent information related to plan of care.
• Maintains accurate documentation according to PPMC policy.
• The name of the Charge Nurse/Patient Nurse, plan for Break Relief.
• Handoff to the nurse, activities performed for inclusion in the progress notes.
• Alerts nurse immediately regarding sounding of alarms on infusion pumps, ventilators, and telemetry.

Credentials:

Education or Equivalent Experience:

• Associate of Arts or Science
• Associate's Degree and 0-1 years Similar patient care experience preferred.
• H.S. Diploma/GED (Required)
• H.S. Diploma/GED required.