Req#: R14800
Category(s): Clinical Support, Constant Companions
Full Time / Part Time: Per Diem
Shift: First

Summary: 

A constant companion is responsible for providing continuous observation of the patient or patients they are assigned to. This role is to insure that the patient does nothing to harm themselves or others. This role must maintain a safe environment and interact with the patient, family, and staff in a caring professional manner. This role entails reporting any changes in the patient's condition or behavior to the nurse immediately and documenting per unit policy during their shift. This description covers the essential functions of the position. Incumbent is expected to perform other similar and related duties as assigned. Management has the right to change or add to the job responsibilities at any time.

Job Responsibilities: 

1) Provides age appropriate care to patients. Demonstrates knowledge of developmental stages for the following age groups child through adult: children, adolescent, geriatric.

2) Develops and maintains good human relations skills. Introduces self by name to patient and staff. Consistently displays a respectful, empathetic, and caring attitude toward patients and families 100% of the time. Interacts with other members of the health care team RN, CNA, MHC, MD, etc. in a professional manner. Accepts changes in assignments to accommodate the patient's needs. Accepts constructive criticism as demonstrated by positive behavioral changes, if indicated.

3) Provides constant observation of the patient/s intervening as necessary to ensure patient safety. Independently communicates patient information and observations promptly to the RN. Actively listens to the patient and acts in a caring professional manner. Follow plan of care as directed by RN. Documents safety checks per unit policy. Follows directions from the RN in regards to limitations and privileges the patient has at all times.

4) Possesses the ability to redirect the patient to a different activity. Possesses ability to deescalate a patient and maintain a therapeutic environment. Observes and reports any significant occurrences in the patient's condition and behavior to the RN. Receives report from the RN and off going constant companion when reporting for duty. Reports off to the RN and on coming constant companion 100% of the time. Provides immediate care to maintain the patient's safety. For example, maintain integrity of oxygen tubing, IV lines, Foley catheter tubing and maintain fall protocol.

5) Maintains a safe environment for the patient. Remains with the patient at all times per the plan of care. It is the constant companion's responsibility to report off to another staff member during breaks or any time the constant companion will not be in direct visual contact with the patient. Demonstrates the knowledge and skill in maintaining a safe environment following the guidelines in the constant companion responsibilities. Utilizes the Hand off Communication process to identify at risk behaviors and has an understanding of the care for the behavior. Accompanies the patient off the unit as directed by the nurse and remains with the patient at all times in these areas. Reports any safety hazards to the RN.

6) Assist patient with ADLs as needed. For example, ambulate patient to the bathroom, assist with meals and daily ambulation.

7) Participates in competency validations, educational activities and staff meetings. Completes all mandatory in-services and web strategies. Attends and participates at staff meetings. Attends annual mandatory validations. Attends all additional programs as required. Continually seeks to improve skill level and knowledge base.

8) Patients and customers first. Communicates to patients that they are a high priority even during busy times. Treats patient information as confidential. Displays sensitivity to patients through non- verbal communication. Utilizes body language such as eye contact, smiling, etc. to demonstrate interest in patient.

9) Demonstrates and models principals of service excellence in support of the patient experience and SPIRIT program.

Required Work Experience: 

1) None Required

Preferred Work Experience: 

1) Direct Health Care, Psych Sitter, or Human Svcs

Skills and Competencies: 

1) Reading comprehension, writing, and following directions

You Belong At Baystate

At Baystate Health we know that treating one another with dignity and equity is what elevates respect for our patients and staff. It makes us not just an organization, but also a community where you belong. It is how we advance the care and enhance the lives of all people.

DIVERSE TEAMS. DIVERSE PATIENTS. DIVERSE LOCATIONS.

Education:

GED or HiSET (Required)

Certifications:

Basic Life Support – American Heart Association

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer

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