Patient-Shift Lead

Lead Patient Observer

Position Summary

VPNE is a family-owned, fast-growing company headquartered in the Greater Boston Area. We partner with leading healthcare institutions to deliver exceptional patient support services while fostering a culture rooted in teamwork, respect, and growth from within.

Are you a motivated professional who thrives in a fast-paced, team-oriented healthcare environment? Do you have a passion for patient safety and leading others to success? If so, this leadership opportunity may be the perfect next step.

The Lead Patient Observer serves as a key on-site resource responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of patients requiring continuous observation. In addition to performing direct observation duties, the Lead provides guidance, coordination, and support to Patient Observers, ensuring adherence to safety protocols, documentation standards, and high-quality patient care practices.

Patients under observation may be at risk for falls, elopement, withdrawal symptoms, confusion, or self-harm.

Position Summary & Responsibilities

The Lead Patient Observer functions under the direction of VPNE in collaboration with nursing leadership and the clinical care team.

Leadership & Oversight

• Act as the primary point of contact for Patient Observers during assigned shifts
• Provide real-time guidance, coaching, and support to team members
• Assist with onboarding and training of new Patient Observers
• Ensure proper staffing coverage and coordinate break relief when needed
• Monitor team compliance with hospital policies, safety protocols, and documentation standards
• Escalate concerns, incidents, or staffing issues to supervisors promptly
• Serve as a liaison between VPNE leadership and hospital clinical staff

Patient Observation Duties

• Perform continuous patient observation as assigned
• Maintain constant visual contact with patients at all times
• Monitor for escalating or unsafe behaviors and report immediately
• Ensure a safe environment in accordance with RN direction (e.g., room positioning, hazard removal)
• Accompany patients to the bathroom, procedures, or testing as needed
• Demonstrate proficiency with safety equipment (e.g., bed alarms)
• Follow patient conversation and engagement guidelines

Documentation & Communication

• Accurately document patient behavior using required tools/forms
• Obtain shift report from nursing staff and communicate updates clearly
• Provide thorough handoff to incoming staff
• Report patient status, safety risks, or changes in condition to nursing staff promptly

Patient Support

• Demonstrate compassion, respect, and professionalism in all patient interactions
• Support patients at risk for suicide, withdrawal, or cognitive impairment
• Respect patient privacy, dignity, and cultural needs at all times

Qualifications

• Experience: 1+ years in a Patient Observer, healthcare support, or similar role preferred
• Prior leadership or team lead experience strongly preferred
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to remain calm and decisive in high-stress situations
• Proficient in English (verbal and written)

Core Competencies

• Leadership & Accountability: Ability to guide and support team performance
• Patient & Family-Centered Care: Respect for patient values, preferences, and dignity
• Safety Awareness: Commitment to maintaining a safe environment and following hospital protocols
• Cultural Sensitivity: Ability to interact effectively with diverse populations

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VPNE is an equal opportunity at will employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of age, race, religion, color, disability, sex, sexual orientation or national origin.