Criteria for Sitters in Hospitals
Specialized caregivers known as hospital sitters alleviate the demand on nurses' time by providing constant companionship to hospitalized patients. Hospital sitters also monitor situations that may necessitate a nurse's attention. The criteria, or standards, required for hospital sitters make this career choice a possibly attractive option as an entry-level position for those interested in the field of health care.
Other People Are Reading
-
Job Description
-
A hospital sitter is an individual privately hired by the patient or his family members to come and stay with the patient at the hospital. The hospital sitter then provides personal care that the patient may not receive otherwise. Hospital sitters are a valuable resource to many families that are unable to take time off to be in the hospital around the clock. Hospital sitters provide these families the peace of mind knowing that a caring person is with their sick loved one. Sitters operate under the supervision of a registered nurse.
Duties
-
Hospital sitters provide around the clock companionship to patients; they make observations of any problem the patient may be experiencing. Hospital sitters perform activities such as reading to the patient, talking to them and even running errands. Sitters may also keep records of doctor visits during their shifts. Hospital sitters can maintain emergency contact information for the patient's family members and essential legal documents. By providing caring companionship, hospital sitters provide peace of mind for the family and reduce the patient's boredom and depression.
-
Benefits
-
Some of the benefits of having a hospital sitter include having a caregiver that's fully dedicated completely to the patient. The sitter helps keep the patient safe and ensures that the patient's needs are met quickly. Hospital sitters act as an advocate for the patient, and their companionship often improves the outcome of the patient's illness. The presence of a dedicated hospital sitter reduces the risk of infections and falls.
Requirements to Become A Hospital Sitter
-
The requirements to be a hospital sitter include having a high school diploma, GED or equivalent experience. Hospital sitters must be able to sit and walk for long periods of time. They should also be physically able to lift and position patients and push and pull hospital beds. Other requirements--such as CPR certification and Patient Care Sitter training--may be completed after employment.
Considerations
-
Individuals who desire to become involved in health care--yet who do not have any education beyond high school--may consider becoming a hospital sitter as an entry point into the field of health care. Being a hospital sitter places one in an environment that allows her to work with and around health professionals who are potential mentors, if she's seeking advancement in the field.
-
