What is a Patient Sitter Job?
A patient sitter job is a healthcare profession that involves providing care and support to patients who are unable to care for themselves. The job requires patience, compassion, and a willingness to assist those in need. A patient sitter may work in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and other healthcare facilities. The primary responsibility of a patient sitter is to ensure the safety and well-being of patients under their care.
What Usually Do in This Position?
As a patient sitter, one can expect to perform a variety of duties. The most common tasks include keeping an eye on patients, assisting with feeding, bathing, and dressing, helping with mobility, and providing companionship. Patient sitters may also be responsible for monitoring vital signs, administering medication, and reporting any changes in a patient's condition to the healthcare team. It is also the responsibility of a patient sitter to maintain a clean and safe environment for patients.
Top 5 Skills for Position:
- Compassion and Empathy
- Patience and Understanding
- Good Communication Skills
- Ability to Multi-task
- Attention to Detail
How to Become This Type of Specialist?
To become a patient sitter, one typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent. However, some employers may prefer candidates with postsecondary education in healthcare or related fields. On-the-job training is also provided to help new hires become familiar with the duties and responsibilities of the job. Patient sitters may also need to undergo a background check and drug screening before being hired.
Average Salary
The average salary for a patient sitter in the United States is around $25,000 per year. However, salaries may vary depending on the location, experience, and education level of the employee.
Roles and Types
There are various roles and types of patient sitters, including home health aides, nursing assistants, and personal care aides. Home health aides provide care to patients in their own homes. Nursing assistants work in hospitals and other healthcare facilities, while personal care aides provide non-medical care to patients in their homes or in assisted living facilities. Patient sitters may also specialize in caring for patients with specific conditions such as dementia, Alzheimer's disease, or hospice care.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in USA
Patient sitter jobs are in demand across the United States, with the highest concentration of jobs in California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Pennsylvania. These states have large populations and aging populations, which contribute to the high demand for patient sitters.
What Are the Typical Tools?
Patient sitters typically use a variety of tools and equipment to perform their duties, including medical equipment such as blood pressure monitors, thermometers, and oxygen tanks. They may also use mobility aids such as wheelchairs, walkers, and canes. Personal protective equipment such as gloves, gowns, and masks may also be required to prevent the spread of infection.
In Conclusion
Patient sitter jobs are an important healthcare profession that requires compassion, patience, and a willingness to assist those in need. Patient sitters play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of patients, and their work is essential to the healthcare industry. With the aging population and increasing demand for healthcare services, patient sitter jobs are expected to remain in high demand for years to come.