Patient Observation Specialist in Boone, North Carolina at Appalachian Regional Healthcare System

Patient Observation Specialist

Location: Boone, North Carolina | PRN | Day Shift

Why You'll Love Working Here

As a Patient Observation Specialist at UNC Health Appalachian, you'll provide a constant, reassuring presence at the bedside — continuously observing and monitoring assigned patients to keep them safe and supported. Working closely with our nursing teams, you'll help deliver high-quality, compassionate care within a mission-driven health system committed to safety, teamwork, and professional growth.

Nestled in the scenic Appalachian Mountains, Boone offers the perfect blend of community, culture, and outdoor adventure.

• Compensation: Starting at $16.00/hour, based on experience, education, and internal equity. Eligible for shift differentials for applicable times.
• Benefits: As a PRN position, this role is not eligible for employee benefits.

What You'll Do as a Patient Observation Specialist

• Provide continuous visual and auditory observation of assigned patients to prevent injuries or adverse events.
• Monitor and document patient behavior, promptly reporting changes to nursing staff.
• Assist patients with basic needs such as positioning, feeding, and hygiene as directed.
• Maintain a safe, clean environment and adhere to infection control protocols.
• Support patient transport within the hospital as needed.
• Participate in individualized care planning and professional development activities.
• Comply with all hospital policies, procedures, and regulatory standards.

Qualifications

• Education:
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience:
  • Previous experience in a healthcare setting preferred, especially in patient observation or care roles.
• Licensure/Certifications:
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) from the American Heart Association required at time of hire.
  • Crisis Prevention and Intervention (CPI) certification required within one (1) year of hire.
• Skills & Abilities:
  • Strong observational and communication skills.
  • Ability to remain calm, compassionate, and focused in stressful situations.
  • Basic understanding of medical terminology and patient care procedures.
  • Proficiency with electronic health records (EHR) preferred.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills for interacting with patients, families, and healthcare teams.

Physical & Work Environment

• Sit, stand, and walk for extended periods.
• Lift, move, and assist patients as needed; manual dexterity and visual acuity required.
• Ability to respond quickly to patient needs and emergencies.
• Direct contact with patients, including exposure to bodily fluids, infectious diseases, and hazardous materials.
• Adherence to standard precautions and use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Flexibility to work various day shifts, including weekends and holidays.

What Sets Us Apart

• Career Growth: Structured advancement pathways, hands-on training, and ongoing development to help you grow within UNC Health Appalachian.
• Impactful Work: As a Patient Observation Specialist, you'll make a direct difference in patient safety, comfort, and recovery — providing critical support across our three hospitals and outpatient facilities.
• Community & Lifestyle: Boone ranks among the best small towns in America, offering outdoor recreation, arts, culture, and a welcoming atmosphere.
• Inclusive Culture: UNC Health Appalachian is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring every team member feels valued and supported.

Ready to be a reassuring presence when patients need it most? Apply today to join UNC Health Appalachian and make a lasting impact on our community.

About UNC Health Appalachian
It's official - UNC Health Appalachian earned an "A" in the fall 2023 Leapfrog Patient Safety Grades! UNC Health Appalachian, the leader for healthcare in the High Country, comprises three hospitals, 13 medical practices, Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center, The Rehabilitation Center, and Appalachian Regional Healthcare Foundation. UNC Health Appalachian stays committed to promoting health in the High Country, enhancing quality of life, and simply “making life better.”

About UNC Health
UNC Health is a state entity and an affiliated enterprise of the University of North Carolina system, comprised of 14 hospitals, 18 hospital campuses and more than 500 clinics along with the clinical patient care programs of the UNC School of Medicine (SOM). It exists to improve the health and well-being of North Carolinians and others we serve and to further the teaching mission of the University of North Carolina SOM. Over the past three years, UNC Health has provided more than $400 million in uncompensated or charity care to the citizens of North Carolina. Our hospitals have received numerous awards and recognition for quality care, patient safety and the overall patient experience. For more information, please visit unchealth.org.

UNC Health Appalachian embraces diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status. We value a workforce that reflects a variety of backgrounds and perspectives, as it enhances our ability to provide outstanding care. We welcome and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences. UNC Health Appalachian is committed to providing a fair and inclusive hiring process and a workplace where all team members feel respected and empowered. If you require accommodations during the application process, please contact us.

Employment at UNC Health Appalachian is contingent upon successful completion of a background and drug screen. For accommodations or additional information, contact arhsrecruitment@unchealth.unc.edu.